That article only hit on one of the issues that have led to the affordability problem (namely that federal regulations have force automakers to include formerly optional equipment like airbags in all new models). The article seems to ignore inflation all together. They say that the average price of a new car is higher than ever, but don't seem to adjust that price for inflation. I'd say it is probably the same or lower than previous years when adjusted accordingly.
The biggest issue, however, is the fact that the "99%" are more interested in bitching that they don't make a lot of money compared to the previous generation than they are at actually putting in the work to earn more money (thereby being able to afford a new car).