Drew Dowdell

Are you considering dropping a car?

yeah, the ingress and egress of the Lacrosse leaves much to be desired. I'm 5'10" but it still is an issue for me. I'm not even sure it is a roof height issue, there are lower cars out there that I don't have the same trouble getting into and out of.... Maybe it is how steep the windshield rake is compared to the location of the seat.

A big reason for the new taxi design was to better accommodate handicapped people. That said, there should be no reason the Ford Transit Connect or any other entry should be categorically eliminated from consideration. The NV is an excellent entry... just not the only entry.

At the garage that I park in when I drive to work rather than bus it, there are only 2 chargers, but they have recently designated 5 spaces nearby as spill over for EVs that are waiting to charge or are done charging and owners move them. The status of the charger is available on the internet (Free/Busy) so that when the charger frees up you can walk over and hook up your car. I'm guessing that they just did this because it will take a while for additional chargers to be installed. There are 3 Leafs and 2 Volts that I see there regularly.

I think you are projecting your own observations from that park-n-ride a bit too much. Around here we're getting level 2 charging stations in malls, downtown parking garages, hospital parking, and hotels. EV charging takes a substantial shift in driving mentality. EVs don't need to fill from empty to full each time you plug them in, you only need to charge it enough to get you to your next charge. Basically, you don't have to wait until the battery is full if a 35% charge is more than enough to get you home. It is a different way of thinking. So while a Level 2 charger may take 4 hours to charge your Leaf from Empty to Full, you'll probably pull up with a 25% charge and only need a 35% charge to get you home. This cuts the charge time down substantially to where the effective time spent charging is still only about 30 minutes.

Interesting side question: are insurance rates killing car ownership rates?

As I was saying yesterday, the steps to self driving cars will be incremental - Ford Debuts Obstacle Avoidance Technology Cruze Eco has a 12.6 gallon tank - reduced from conventional Cruze tank of 15.6 gallons to save weight. Thus giving a theoretical range of 529.2 miles based on EPA highway estimates for stick. bah... well ANY OTHER PLATFORM then! VW doesn't decrease the size of the tanks on the TDI models

October 9th, 2013 Drew Dowdell Managing Editor - CheersandGears.com Ford of Europe demonstrated a new safety technology this week at their test facility in Lommel, Belgium. Dubbed "Obstacle Avoidance", the system will swerve around a stopped or slow moving object if it decides the driver hasn't taken evasive action soon enough to avoid a collision. Barb Samardzich, vice president Product Development, Ford of Europe says, “The future for Ford means developing innovative products and technologies – including Fully Assisted Parking Aid and Obstacle Avoidance – that help deliver a safer, more convenient, more desirable, more personalized and greener driving and ownership experience" Along with Obstacle Avoidance, Ford also demonstrated fully assisted parking that can be activated inside the vehicle or outside using a remote on the key. Both technologies are years away from actual deployment in production vehicles, but show where the future of automated cars is heading next. Ford Press Release is on Page 2 Drew Dowdell is Managing Editor of CheersandGears.com and can be reached at [email protected] or on Twitter as @cheersngears FORD REVEALS TEST CARS THAT CAN PARK AT THE TOUCH OF A BUTTON AND AVOID COLLISIONS WITH VEHICLES OR PEDESTRIANS Ford reveals test cars with Fully Assisted Parking Aid and Obstacle Avoidance prototype technologies at Ford Futures – a showcase of Ford’s forthcoming vehicles, features and research Ford is developing Fully Assisted Parking Aid to enable drivers to park at the touch of a button from inside or outside their car. Obstacle Avoidance technology uses automatic steering and braking to avoid collisions with vehicles and pedestrians Ford also shows S-MAX Concept, the company’s vision for a future sport activity vehicle. All-new Mondeo Vignale Concept provides a first look at the upscale Vignale experience with unique design touches, premium craftsmanship, exclusive specification and technologies Focus Electric, C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid and Mondeo Hybrid will offer Ford customers a full range of electrified vehicles by 2014 Ford SYNC with AppLink will offer voice-activated apps including Spotify, TomTom and Hotels.com LOMMEL, Belgium, Oct. 8, 2013 – Ford Motor Company today revealed for the first time technology developed to enable drivers to park at the touch of a button from inside or outside their car; and also a prototype system that uses automatic steering and braking to avoid collisions with vehicles or pedestrians. Experts from Ford’s Research and Advanced Engineering organisation have harnessed advances made in existing Ford technologies Active Park Assist and Ford Powershift to deliver a Ford Focus test car equipped with prototype Fully Assisted Parking Aid system. The next-generation parking technology controls steering, gear selection and forward and reverse motion to facilitate push-button parking that can even be operated by remote control. Ford has also revealed Obstacle Avoidance technology developed as part of a Ford-led and European-funded research project. Ford’s Obstacle Avoidance-equipped Focus test vehicle issues warnings first if it detects slow-moving objects, stationary obstacles or pedestrians in the same lane ahead. If the driver fails to steer or brake following those warnings the system will then automatically steer and brake to avoid a collision. Both technologies were today demonstrated for the first time at Ford’s test facilities in Lommel, Belgium. “The future for Ford means developing innovative products and technologies – including Fully Assisted Parking Aid and Obstacle Avoidance – that help deliver a safer, more convenient, more desirable, more personalised and greener driving and ownership experience,” said Barb Samardzich, vice president Product Development, Ford of Europe. “Ford is focussed on making sure the vehicles, technologies and features we develop better meet changing customer expectations and values.” Ford revealed the two new research technologies alongside forthcoming vehicles and features including: Ford S-MAX Concept which builds upon the current S-MAX’s style-without-compromise ethos with sleek design, premium craftsmanship, smart technologies and a more flexible interior; also features connectivity and wellness technology including the Ford ECG Heart Rate Monitoring Seat All-new Ford Mondeo Vignale Concept which provides a first glimpse of Ford’s vision for the unique upscale Vignale experience that is scheduled for launch in early 2015. Offers unique design touches, high quality craftsmanship, exclusive specification, advanced technologies and an exclusive purchase and ownership experience. Focus Electric, C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid and Mondeo Hybrid cars that will, by the end of 2014, offer customers a full range of electrified vehicles Ford SYNC with AppLink. Spotify, TomTom navigation and Hotels.com are among voice-activated apps which will enable drivers to stay connected on the move, and keep their eyes on the road and their hands on the wheel Ford’s futuring experts have identified an increasing consumer demand worldwide for “Sanity Savers” – technology and features which make life easier, and also a greater customer focus on “Ethical Consumption” as purchases tend more to reflect personal values. “Car-buyers are placing a growing emphasis on the ownership experience, on purchases that keep them connected on the move and that also reflect their beliefs – trends that will have a profound effect on the vehicles, features and services they will choose in the future,” said Sheryl Connelly, manager, Ford Global Trends and Futuring. “Ford Futures sends a clear signal that Ford is moving in harmony with these global trends.” Further Ford technologies on show at Ford Futures, that takes place as Ford celebrates the 100th anniversary of its moving assembly line, include: MyKey technology, which enables parents to place restrictions on younger drivers to promote safety Ford SYNC with Emergency Assistance, which can alert local emergency services operators to an accident in 26 languages, spoken in 40 European regions New techniques for the volume production of lightweight carbon fibre car components “Ford Motor Company has always been one of the world’s leading pioneers and forward-thinkers,” added Samardzich. “From the introduction of a whole new way of mass producing cars 100 years ago to the advanced safety and convenience features unveiled today, we continue to set the template and define the future for drivers and the automotive environment.” View full article

Yes, but the Volt is a more technologically advanced vehicle with a more expensive battery system, it will remain more expensive than the Prius plug-in for that reason alone. The prius plug-in is only a hair under $30k, so that doesn't leave GM any room to maneuver.

A blog post where I wonder aloud about how successful the Honda Accord Hybrid will be. Is the Honda Accord Hybrid set up for failure again?

Until very recently with the latest crop of high efficiency 4-cylinder, a lot of cars simply don't have the kind of range you are talking about.... and even the ones that do only have it accidentally. There is no point in a Cruze Eco carrying around 17, 18, 22 gallons of gas... that is a 700 to 900 mile range for that car but it is also something that would hurt fuel efficiency. As it is with just the 15 gallon tank, the Cruze Eco can run 570 miles on the highway. The reason I say it is accidental is because the cars are usually designed with tanks that give acceptable ranges for the least efficient engine on the platform. In this case, I would guess that to be the 2.0T in the Buick Verano Turbo, which at 30mpg, gives the Verano Turbo a highway cruising range of 450 miles.... much more in line with industry standard.

Chevy already reduced Volt price by $5,000 for 2014.

October 9th, 2013 Drew Dowdell Managing Editor - CheersandGears.com Toyota announced reduced pricing of the 2014 Prius Plug-In today with a drop of over $2,000 from last year's base price. Coming in at $29,990 before delivery charge, Toyota is not making any reductions in equipment or appointments. In fact, Toyota has added two features to the Prius Plug-In for 2014, these include: Heated cloth front seats standard Remote climate - the ability to activate their air conditioning remotely - standard on Plug-In The upper trip Prius Plug-In Advanced adds: Hard Drive base Navigation with Entune Infotainment and JBL Sound System Softex-trimmed heated front seats 8-way power driver seat Heads Up Display An optional technology package for the Prius Plug-In Advance includes Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Pre-Collision System, and LED headlights and fog lights. The Prius Plug-In qualifies for a federal tax credit of $2,500 and a California rebate of $1,500, making the Prius Plug-In effective base price $27,490* in most states and $25,990* in California. For now, the Prius Plug-In is only available in 15 states (California, Oregon, Washington, Arizona, Maine, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Maryland, Virginia and Hawaii) *Prices before destination charge. Toyota Press Release is on Page 2 Drew Dowdell is Managing Editor of CheersandGears.com and can be reached at [email protected] or on Twitter as @cheersngears 2014 Toyota Prius Plug-In to Start Under $30,000 TORRANCE, Calif., Oct. 9, 2013 – It just got a little easier for drivers to maximize their fuel savings and be environmentally responsible. Toyota’s most advanced technology passenger car, the Prius Plug-in, will be available to customers at a substantially reduced price beginning with the 2014 model year. Toyota has reduced MSRP on the 2014 Prius Plug-in Hybrid by over $2,000, making the starting MSRP $29,990 (excluding DPH). This price repositioning on the base Prius Plug-in Hybrid is not accompanied by any reduction in vehicle content. The 2014 Prius Plug-in Hybrid is well-equipped (similar to a Prius Three), but adds these appealing features: Heated cloth front seats – a unique standard feature available only on Prius Plug-in Remote Climate – a feature that allows customers to activate their A/C remotely (standard on Prius Plug-in, available on Prius Three) Ability to drive extended distances in EV Mode, helping to increase fuel efficiency Unique 10-spoke alloy wheels 1 additional year of Roadside Assistance through ToyotaCare, for a total of 3 year Pricing for the 2014 Prius Plug-in Advanced model has also been adjusted to make the model more accessible to consumers with a $4,620 reduction in MSRP to $34,905 (excluding DPH). The Prius Plug-in Advanced will still offer popular features including: Premium HDD Navigation with Entune® App Suite (including Plug-in Hybrid Applications) and JBL SofTex-trimmed heated front seats 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with power lumbar support Head-Up Display Safety Connect The 2014 Prius Plug-in Advanced will offer DRCC (Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, PCS (Pre-Collision System), LED headlights and fog lights as part of an optional Technology Package for customers seeking the highest level of technology. Production of the 2014 model year Prius Plug-in begins in October with pricing taking effect when these models arrive in showrooms in November.The Prius Plug-in qualifies for a Federal Tax Credit of up to $2,500 in addition to the State of California’s Clean Vehicle Rebate Program (CVRP) which offers a $1,500 rebate. Information about the Federal Tax credit and vehicle eligibility can be found on: http://www.irs.gov/businesses/article/0,,id=219867,00.html The 2014 Prius Plug-in is also eligible for the State of California’s HOV lane sticker (www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/carpool/carpool.htm). The Prius Plug-in is available in 15 states (California, Oregon, Washington, Arizona, Maine, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Maryland, Virginia and Hawaii). For special deals in your local area, please visit www.buyatoyota.com. Grade Engine/ Trans. Highlight Features 13MY MSRP 14MY MSRP MSRP $ Change MSRP % Change Plug-in Hybrid 1.8-liter HSD/ E-CVT Display Audio with Navigation, Entune App Suite and backup camera; USB/Aux and Bluetooth; unique 15” alloy wheels, Smart Key System on 3 doors and Push Button Start; heated front seats; Remote Climate; HSD blue accent headlights and exclusive Plug-in Hybrid badging; additional year of Roadside Assistance through ToyotaCare $32,000 $29,990* -$2,010 -6.3% Plug-in Hybrid Advanced 1.8-liter HSD/ E-CVT Prius Plug-in Hybrid plus: Premium HDD Navigation with Entune App Suite (including Plug-in Hybrid Applications) and JBL, SofTex-trimmed heated front seats, 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with power lumbar support, Head-Up Display, Safety Connect $39,525 $34,905* -$4,620 -11.7% *Prices in Hawaii will vary. Name Description MSRP Technology Package (available on Prius Plug-in Advanced) Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Pre-Collision System, LED Headlights and Fog Lights $2,610 Special color Blizzard Pearl $395 View full article

You may not see either towing here in Pittsburgh, but I see them both towing in the Miami area regularly.

While the NV is a good solution to the problem, it is not the only solution. Competition is a good thing.

I doubt we'll see more than a 250 mile to 300 mile range on EVs any time soon. The batteries are just too expensive and most people don't need that kind of range.

Paired with BMW dealers here.

We're not going to see any sudden jumps in either electrics or self driving cars, it will be gradual adoption of both. Prior to self driving cars, we'll have cars that can take evasive maneuvers to avoid a collision. We're already seeing that with active braking collision avoidance and with the Benzes that will nudge you back into your lane if you start to drift. The steps from today to fully self driving are incremental, not a giant leap. Hybrids aren't a good measure of what will happen with electrics because, as stated above, the mileage benefit of hybrids is currently dubious for the first 80k - 100k miles. The manufacturers followed up their hybrid offerings with standard ICE cars that pushed recent records for fuel economy, but they didn't impliment that additional fuel savings technology on their hybrid cars. In essence, they shot their hybrids in the foot on the market place. I expect that Telsa, with its Steve Jobs like leader will probably be the disturbing force in the market. Now that they've woken GM up as well, the rest will snowball.

It's going to take even longer with people spreading unfounded F.U.D. like in this thread, though I'm sure that it's the goal.

Could have just been a loose wire for the window switch

What percentage of the population drives 500 - 750 miles at a time and what percentage of trips do they do that? I'd say that I'm a pretty rigorous driver and I still have trouble going more than 500 miles in a day, even then, I require at least one food break and more than one bathroom break. A 500 mile trip with one 30 minute stop in the middle is going to still be on the extreme end of most road trips. Even in my CR-V this is a requirement because at the 250 mile mark I need to fill up the gas tank and probably take a food and pee break while Albert probably needs to stop for his 7th coffee. If someone buys a Model S and needs to drive 1,000 miles, they've also got the dough to either fly or the smarts to rent a car. I can pick up a CTS from National for a week and unlimited mileage for $450. For a 1,000 mile trip, renting the car is actually more cost effective at the current $0.556 depreciation rate. If I am less concerned with the type of car, the financial aspect tilts even more in favor of renting. For the day to day, the average American doesn't drive more than 75 miles a day and a large number don't drive more than 40 miles a day. This is why the Volt's EV mode range is about 40 miles and the Leaf is at 80. The base Tesla Model-S has a range of 208 miles. Can we please be a little more realistic about how most people use their cars on a day to day routine?

I, for one, would like a Coupe De Escalade or an Escalade Touring Sedan myself...

More trouble for Tesla: Industry, stock market react in wake of Tesla flat tire