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Spotlight: 30th Annual Piedmont Classic Chevy Club Car Show

May 27, 2019 by admin 2 Comments

America and Chevrolet in 1969

This Camaro SS was just one of several performance models in Chevrolet’s 1969 product line.

Probably the most significant event of 1969 was the July 20th lunar landing of the Apollo 11 spacecraft. The galactic mission showcased America’s tech prowess in an age when the space program’s computers had less power than the device you hold in your hands today. “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind,” quipped astronaut Neil Armstrong as he set foot on the lunar surface.

That year also saw Richard Milhous Nixon inaugurated as the 37th President of the United States, Vietnam War protests deepen, while the Woodstock Festival gave us three days of peace and music on a bucolic farm in upstate New York.

On the automotive front, Chevrolet continued to lead the U.S. market in sales, fending off archival Ford for another year. It was also a year when Chevrolet flexed its performance muscle, by supplying several powerhouse engines across most of its model line.

Outside of the compact Corvair (which was in its final year, then succeeded by the Vega), models such as the Nova, Chevelle, Camaro, Corvette, and Impala each offered at least one big block V8. It was also the final year for the Impala SS.

Wagons remained the family vehicle of choice and included such names as the Kingswood Estates, Kingswood, Townsman, and Brookwood among Chevy’s full-size models. In the intermediate group were such models as the Concours Estate, Concours, Greenbrier, and Nomad.

The Chevrolet C/K, a line of full-size pickup trucks, were sold under Standard, Custom, and CST (Custom Sort Truck) trims. Chevrolet had 10 (half-ton), 20 (three-quarter ton), and 30 (one-ton) versions. Both medium- and heavy-duty versions of this truck were also offered. The Chevrolet Suburban utility vehicle was now in its sixth generation. Unlike today’s models, this one offered a single driver-side door and two passenger-side doors.

2019 Piedmont Classic Chevy Club Car Show

You’ll find Chevrolet fan clubs all across the country, including some based on specific models such as the Avalanche, Camaro, and Impala. There’s even a Chevrolet Astro fan club in Japan where this small van is revered. Who knew?

In the area where I call home, central North Carolina, is the Piedmont Classic Chevy Club (check out their Facebook page). Launched in 1980 to celebrate Tri-Five (1955, 1956, & 1957 models), the group later expanded to include all classic Chevrolet models. Today, club members span all U.S. makes and models through 1985.

Memorial Day weekend is important for remembering and honoring U.S. military people who gave their lives in war. It is also favored by classic car enthusiasts, including those without weekend getaway plans. On Saturday, the PCCC folk hosted their 30th annual classic car show, once again choosing Lake Wheeler Park in Raleigh, NC as the site for the show.

And it was a hot Saturday at that! By late morning, the temperature had already topped 90 degrees, with a record within reach. Fortunately, that didn’t stop hundreds of classic car fans and their rides from coming out as well as many more spectators. Proceeds from the event were donated to Raleigh’s Hilltop Home for Children.

Without further ado, the following highlights and photos are from this year’s show.

Check Out Our Related Information

Besides covering classic car shows on this site, you can find updates on our Facebook page. Live updates shared on Twitter and Instagram too.

Additional Spotlights

Spotlight: 23rd Annual Triangle British Classic Car Show

Spotlight: 24th Annual Rod & Custom Show Presented by the Stray Cats

Spotlight: 2018 Piedmont Classic Chevy Club Car Show

Spotlight: 23rd Annual Triangle British Classic Car Show

May 20, 2019 by admin 3 Comments

23rd Annual Triangle British Classic Car Show

Auto shows are held ‘year round, especially in warmer climates where cold and snow are not much of a factor. In the southeast, including the Carolinas, May begins a stretch of shows lasting into early fall. Thus, if you enjoy classic cars, then this is the season for you.

The 23rd Annual Triangle British Classic Car Show is one such event, held at North Hills in Raleigh on the third Saturday of May. The show is organized by the North Carolina MG Car Club.

This year’s show welcomed nearly 150 British-made vehicles. And despite hot temperatures, the spectators came out in droves.

The show’s organizers supplied clearly marked description signs,
not unlike what’s found at Concours-level events.

From Britain, With Love

British-centric car shows supply us with a rich history of automotive manufacturing. Like the U.S., the U.K. counts scores of defunct brands, including Austin-Healey, MG, Morris, and Reliant, just to name a few. Government-brokered mergers and financial backing helped keep the industry going, with most of the current brands now foreign-owned.

And yet, the connection between old new remains and not just with the right-hand steering wheels of manufacturer’s home market vehicles or with the uniquely British terms bonnet (hood) and boot (trunk) referenced by owners. Further, it doesn’t take a sharp eye to spot any era Jaguar, while most enthusiasts immediately recognize the differences between McLaren and Aston-Martin.

So, let’s celebrate the many classic British models by reviewing what was featured at this year’s show.

MG: Morris Garages

As expected, MG models dominated the event, with most of the models showcased from the 1950s through the 1970s. MG, which is derived from Morris Garages, has gone through a succession of owners since its founding in 1924. Today, the company is owned by China’s SAIC Motor Corporation Limited, which produces a variety of passenger vehicles for the global market, including the U.K. But these models are unrelated to the MG of antiquity.

The MG models popular with collectors fall largely under two groups: MGA (launched in 1955) and MGB (rolled out in 1962 through 1980). Though designed and built in the U.K. at the company’s factory in Abington-on-Thames, England, more than 90 percent of the MGA vehicles produced were shipped abroad. Similarly, the MGB series also found success overseas, especially in the U.S.

Jaguar Motors

Founded as the Swallow Sidecar Company in 1922, Jaguar remains an important British manufacturer of cars and utility vehicles. Today, the marque represents one part of the Jaguar Land Rover enterprise, now owned by India’s Tata Motors.

A few Jaguars were on hand, including a 1961 Jaguar XK150 and a 1970 E-Type.

Morris Minor

Morgan Motor Company

Best of the Rest, Including Modified Cars

One of two Austin-Healey Bugeye Sprites on display.
This one may already be in the hands of a new owner.

This Lotus example was the lone representation for the entire brand.

The Mini brand, now owned by BMW, was represented by four models,
with the current designs flanking the two classics.

Besides the British marques, the show made room for modified cars, including this three-wheeled conveyance.

Best of Show

The overall Best of Show award went to this 1936 Rolls-Royce 25/30 Saloon. It was the only RR offering on hand and clearly was a standout.

Additional Spotlights

Spotlight: Capital City Cruisers 2018 Car, Truck & Bike Show

Spotlight: 30th Annual Piedmont Classic Chevy Club Car Show

Spotlight: Capital City Cruisers 2018 Car, Truck & Bike Show

August 20, 2018 by admin 4 Comments

Capital City Cruisers hosts their 12th annual event.

Chevrolet Chevelle SS Capital City Cruisers — Check out the wheels on this Chevrolet Chevelle SS!

Weeks of above normal rainfall in the Carolinas means one thing: if you have plans in place, then know for certain that they’re subject to change. Moreover, if those plans involve hosting a car show with scores of classic and antique cars prepared to compete, there is a good chance that at least some owners will stay away.

Happily, the bad weather held off long enough for the 12th Annual Capital City Cruisers Car, Truck & Bike Show to welcome more than 100 vehicles to its location in Garner, NC. This judged event awarded the top 100 vehicles, which were split between 75 “old school” models (1987 and earlier) and 25 “new school vehicles (1988 and later). Fittingly, a portion of the proceeds raised money for the local schools, Angel Tree and the Give Back Organization, Inc.

Capital City Cruisers Photo Gallery

My time was limited on Saturday, but I was able to show up early on and stay until just after the noon hour. That allowed me to take hundreds of photos and converse with various owners.

About 40 photos were posted on the day of the event on the Auto Trends Magazine Facebook page. Another four dozen or so are included here, with details covering specific vehicles or categories. If you’re the owner of a vehicle featured here and would like a copy, simply right click on the photo and save it to your hard drive.

So, without further delay, I give you a broad sample of the stars, cars, people and other vehicles featured at this year’s Capital City Cruisers show.

Cars, Trucks and a Motorcycle

1948 Buick Roadmaster Convertible Capital City Cruisers

Ford Falcon Thunderbolt Capital City Cruisers

1973 Chevrolet Camaro Capital City Cruisers

Chevrolet pickup truck Capital City Cruisers

2007 Honda motorcycle Capital City Cruisers

1960 Cadillac Coupe de Ville Capital City Cruisers

Ford Model A Capital City Cruisers

Mopar Madness

What is a car show without sufficient Mopar representation? In this case, various Plymouth and Dodge models, old and new, paraded in and took over their own slice of the lot.

Capital City Cruisers Mopar

Mopar Capital City Cruisers

What is it?

Not every vehicle at car shows fit under the antique, classic or contemporary car theme. Take this customized vehicle which got everyone’s attention when it arrived around noon. The owner said that it is powered by a 1834cc Volkswagen engine with VW front and rear suspension parts. The rest of the vehicle is a mish-mash of anything goes. Oh, the vehicle is a tribute to America’s fallen heroes — the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military.

Capital City Cruisers dune buggy

But Wait…There’s More!

Pontiac Trans Am Capital City Cruisers — 1979-1981 Pontiac Trans Am models featured this quad headlight look.

1940 Ford Coupe Capital City Cruisers — And all of a sudden there was this gorgeous 1940 Ford coupe.

Phillips 66 Capital City Cruisers — Your Phillips 66 assist truck at your service!

Beauty is in the Eye of the Beholder

Not every vehicle on display is in mint condition. Some are in a work in progress, including this classic Chevrolet pickup truck. Many a classic or antique model have gone through a long process of restoration. Best wishes to this owner as he or she renews this beauty.

Chevrolet truck Capital City Cruisers

We Have Pickup Trucks

Long before crossovers became a thing, pickup trucks have served American consumers and business owners. Nearly every mainstream manufacturer had one, including Studebaker, International and Jeep. These days, the segment remains strong with American and Japanese manufacturers dominating.

Pickup truck fans were not disappointed at the Capital City Cruisers show as more than a dozen were spotted. In addition to the ones we already featured, the following 10 trucks were on also on display.

1957 Chevrolet 3600 pickup truck. Capital City Cruisers — 1957 Chevrolet 3600 pickup truck.

1961 Ford F-100 pickup truck. Capital City Cruisers — 1961 Ford F-100 pickup truck.

Chevrolet “Goldfinger” C/K pickup truck.

Chevrolet 3100 pickup truck. Capital City Cruisers — Chevrolet 3100 pickup truck.

1947-1955 Chevrolet pickup trucks. Capital City Cruisers — 1947-1955 Chevrolet pickup trucks.

1940-1941 Ford Pickup Truck. Capital City Cruisers — 1940-1941 Ford Pickup Truck.

GMC S15. Capital City Cruisers — GMC S15.

1994 Chevrolet S10 customized pickup truck. Capital City Cruisers — 1994 Chevrolet S10 customized pickup truck.

Chevrolet El Camino SS. Capital City Cruisers — Chevrolet El Camino SS.

Previous Spotlights

Spotlight: 24th Annual Rod & Custom Show Presented by the Stray Cats

Spotlight: American Children’s Home Show-off Show

Spotlight: 2018 Piedmont Classic Chevy Club Car Show

May 28, 2018 by admin 7 Comments

2018 Piedmont Classic Chevy Club Car Show

As an automotive writer, most of my focus is on what’s new and upcoming, thus the “auto trends” moniker. But I also know that the industry has a rich history spanning nearly 150 years. Keeping an eye on the past while looking toward the future supplies the right perspective about the motorized conveyances we love.

When an opportunity to take in a local show comes up, I like to seize it. And not just any show, but one featuring the classic cars that define America. The 2018 Piedmont Classic Chevy Club Car Show is one such event, held on the Saturday preceding Memorial Day.

This year’s event was the 29th running of the show and it was a good one. Indeed, Hemmings listed it amongst its featured shows for the weekend. With Lake Wheeler Park in Raleigh, NC, serving as the venue, I knew it was one event I had to attend.

I’m glad that I did, because this car show was better than I had expected. One special note: our war dead were remembered — Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends (John 15:13). What a pleasant surprise to hear a young lady sing the Star-Spangled Banner.

1968 Chevrolet: 50 Years Later

This year’s show celebrated the 50th anniversary of the 1968 Chevy. That year featured such model names as Bel Air and Biscayne; Camaro and Corvette; Corvair Chevelle, and Caprice; Impala and Nova. Not to mention various “C” and “K” trucks and the Suburban.

Most of those models were present and the ones on display were entered for judging. The club welcomed owners of other US brands, including AMC, Buick, Cadillac, Dodge, Ford, Lincoln, Mercury, Oldsmobile, Plymouth, Pontiac and Studebaker. As long as the vehicle was made in the US and was from 1992 or earlier, they qualified.

I did not stay around long enough to learn who won an award. Contestants plunked down $20 to enter, otherwise, admission to the general public was free. Proceeds from the show benefited the private, nonprofit Raleigh’s Hilltop Home. The home serves children with severe developmental and medical disabilities.

2018 Piedmont Classic Chevy Club Car Show

As for the models on hand, the following represent the photos taken. The first group includes stories gleaned first hand from the respective owner.

If I got something wrong, feel free to leave a comment and I’ll make the necessary correction.

1967 Cadillac de Ville Convertible

Several vehicles on hand also prominently displayed “for sale” signs, including a 1967 Cadillac de Ville Convertible. This beautiful specimen of Cadillac hugeness looks factory new with its white body, white sidewall tires and a red interior.

This model is powered by a 429 cubic inch (7.0 liters) V8 engine with a four-barrel carburetor and has a three-speed automatic transmission. This engine makes 340 horsepower.

The owner was present and said he was asking $38,500 for it.

1967 Cadillac d'Ville Convertible

1950 Chevrolet Fleetline

Not displayed on the green, but sitting in the lot directly across from the field was a 1950 Chevrolet Fleetline. This model was also for sale, with a listed price of $8,500. Some wheel well rust was evident and the interior has seated many passengers for nearly seven decades.

The Fleetline was a subset of the Fleetmaster. All models have a 215 cubic inch (3.5-liter) inline six-cylinder engine making 90 horsepower.

1950 Chevrolet Fleetline

Chevrolet Pickup Truck — A lowrider Chevrolet pickup truck with an “aftermarket” umbrella.

1968 Plymouth GTX

The owner of this 1968 Plymouth GTX told me he purchased this model from the previous owner for just $5,000. He replaced the original engine ($7,000) with one displacing 480 cubic inches, otherwise it is true to the original and showroom clean.

With an estimated value of approximately $21,000, the owner stands to enjoy a handsome profit should he decide to sell it. He plans to keep it and keep driving it about three days per week.

1968 Plymouth GTX

1932 Ford coupe. 1931 Chevrolet coupe. — 1932 Ford coupe. Followed by a 1931 Chevrolet coupe.

Plymouth Valiant Scamp — The “Scamp” name has been used twice by Plymouth. The first was from 1971-1976 as a special trim level on the this Valiant. The name was resurrected in the early 1980s
for a pickup truck based on the Plymouth Horizon compact car.

The Mercury Comet was a twin to the Ford Maverick.
The model pictured here is from the fifth and final generaation, built from 1971 to 1977.

If there was a rare car at the show, it was this 1949 Kurtis, one of only 17 built. The vehicle is named for American racing car designer Frank Kurtis.

2018 Piedmont Classic Chevy Club Car Show

Chevrolet Camaro

2018 Piedmont Classic Chevy Club Car Show

1955 Chevrolet

2018 Piedmont Classic Chevy Club Car Show

1946 GMC (General Motors Truck)

1946 GMC Truck

1956 Ford F100

1992 Ford Mustang 5.0

Chevrolet Impala

And the best of the rest. Simply click on any photo and it will enlarge.

[Best_Wordpress_Gallery id=”13″ gal_title=”2018 Piedmont Classic Chevy Club Car Show”]

See Also —How to Get Out of a Car Lease Early

Additional Spotlights

Spotlight: 30th Annual Piedmont Classic Chevy Club Car Show

Spotlight: 24th Annual Rod & Custom Show Presented by the Stray Cats

Spotlight: Capital City Cruisers 2018 Car, Truck & Bike Show

Spotlight: American Children’s Home Show-off Show

Rolling Sculpture: Art Deco Car Exhibit

December 21, 2016 by admin 3 Comments

This unique exposition is set to end on January 15, 2017.

This 1935 Bugatti Aerolithe is only model in the Rolling Sculpture collection that is a reproduction. The original was lost shortly after it was first shown.

The North Carolina Museum of Art has done it again. For only the second time, the state art museum in Raleigh is offering an exhibit of cars, this one featuring Art Deco designs from the 1930s and 1940s.

Curated by Ken Gross

Like 2013’s “Porsche by Design: Seducing Speed” — a delightful collection of Porsche vehicles spanning this German manufacturer’s illustrious history — “Rolling Sculpture: Art Deco Cars from the 1930s and 40s,” offers an outstanding representation of Depression-era conveyances.

Packard, Bugatti, Tatra, Pierce-Arrow, Hispano-Suiza, and Ruxton, are among the 14 cars displayed. Guest curator and automotive journalist Ken Gross, who also organized the Porsche exhibit, included three motorcycles — Indian, BMW, and Henderson — offering a sharp contrast to the cars displayed, while underscoring the enduring importance of these two-wheeled vehicles.

This 1930 Ruxton Model C Sedan is on display just ahead of a 1934 Packard Twelve Model 1106.

Arts Décoratifs or Art Deco

The Art Deco design movement originated in France shortly before the First World War and took hold at the Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes (International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts) in Paris in 1925. This unprecedented style integrating visual arts, architecture, and design was influenced by numerous themes, including Cubism, Fauvism, French furniture, and also from multiple cultures of antiquity — Persia, Maya, and China to name a few.

Perhaps the best-known example of Art Deco architecture in the United States is the Chrysler Building in New York, opened in 1930 just as the movement was coming into its own. This exceptional convergence of decorative arts and industrial design may have stoked automotive manufacturers to respond in kind. Indeed, the 1935 Chrysler Imperial Model C-2 Airflow and the 1941 Chrysler Thunderbolt are among the 14 cars found in the display.

1936 Stout Scarab — Is the Stout Scarab the first minivan?

1940 Tatra T87 — Along with the Stout Scarab, the Tatra T87 isn’t likely to win many beauty contests.

So, why showcase cars in an art museum? Well, why not?

In recent years, museums such as the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston and Atlanta’s High Museum of Art have rolled out automotive exhibits, recognizing cars also reflect changes in societal attitudes, fashion, and technology. Further, mere pictures are simply not sufficient enough to convey the regality of a 1933 Pierce-Arrow Silver Arrow or the timeless design of the 1930 Henderson KJ Streamline motorcycle.

Besides, if the gal-to-guy museum visitor ratio is skewed toward women, what better way to attract more men by featuring actual classic cars?

An extraordinarily long hood and a compact cabin department help define
this 1938 Hispano-Suiza H6B “Xenia” coupe.

Your Journey Through Rolling Sculpture

Rolling Sculpture is found in the museum’s East Building on Level B in the Meymandi Exhibition Gallery. Just outside the gallery is the very first model you’ll see: a 1938 Talbot-Lago T-150C-SS Teardrop coupe. It wasn’t until after I left for home did I realize I had seen this model’s voluptuous lines before — it was entered at the 2015 Pinehurst Concours d’Elegance.

The remaining vehicles are laid out along a u-shaped path, beginning with a fetching 1936 Peugeot 402 Darl’mat Coupe and ending with a reproduction of a 1935 Bugatti Aerolithe. That Bugatti, like several other works present, were one-off models. But unlike the others, the Aerolithe was shown once and then never seen again. The model you’ll find at the museum is the result of years of painstaking research and laborious, but dedicated work to create a masterpiece very likely nearly identical to the original composition.

Some of the models featured are banded together, while others are standalone, including each of the motorcycles. It has been said that beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but making a case for the likes of the 1936 Stout Scarab or the 1940 Tatra T87 means appreciating that the designers may have had a bit of whimsy in mind. At least with the Scarab you could make the argument that it truly was the first minivan. As for the Tatra, elements of later Citroen models seem to have been inspired by this Czechoslovakian manufacturer.

1933 Pierce-Arrow Silver Arrow — Just five years before Pierce-Arrow went out of business, this 1933 Silver Arrow was released. It also has the distinction at 220 inches in length of being longest car on display at Rolling Sculpture.

Making Your Pilgrimage

Automotive enthusiasts should plan on spending about 90 minutes to view the full exhibit. You will want to carefully examine each model, take your photos, and immerse yourself in the stories accompanying each one. The NCMA weaves in historical context, including the architectural elements, political ramifications, and the culture of the Art Deco era. That they are able to do all this with an unusual collection of classic cars is a feat few others have attempted to pull off.

Additional Photos:

1936 Peugeot 402 Darl'mat Coupe. — 1936 Peugeot 402 Darl’mat Coupe.

1930 Henderson KJ Streamline motorcycle.

TriPrius: 2016 Toyota Prius

July 18, 2016 by admin 5 Comments

This week, one of my fleet vehicles is none other than a 2016 Toyota Prius Four. Unlike the other vehicles I typically test, this one is being reviewed as part of a Toyota Triangle campaign from Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC.

Along with nine other drivers, we’re showing off the Prius to everyone we know in the Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill, NC, area (Research Triangle Park). Therefore, instead of my usual journalism perspective, I’m very much wearing my promoter hat.

Toyota isn’t paying me for my comments, but there is a good chance that if I make enough noise through a #TriPrius campaign, a local charity will benefit. More details to follow.

As for the 2016 Toyota Prius, it is all-new this year. Now in its fourth generation, the hybrid electric vehicle Prius offers the edgiest design yet as evidenced by the photos I’ve included here.

2016 Toyota Prius

A full review of this model will follow at a later date. Meanwhile, let’s take a look at some of the history and highlights of the Toyota Prius:

1. Released in 1997. Although the US did not see the first Toyota Prius until late in 1999 for the 2000 model year, this model went on sale in Japan in 1997. The first-generation model was sold through 2003 and was a compact. Beginning in 2004, a larger second-generation model rolled out and in 2010 the third-generation Prius was introduced. As mentioned, 2016 marks the start of the fourth-generation model.

2. The top-selling hybrid model. Thus far, Toyota has sold more than 5.7 million Prius models worldwide. It remains the best-selling hybrid model in the US and is joined by other hybrid Toyota models, including the RAV4 Hybrid, Avalon Hybrid, and the Camry Hybrid.

2016 Toyota Prius

3. Fuel economy is better than ever. Always seeking to maintain an innovative edge, the 2016 Prius is EPA-rated at 54 mpg in the city and 50 mpg on the highway for a combined 52 mpg. A special Prius Two Eco edition raises fuel economy to 58 mpg in the city and 53 mpg on the highway for a combined 56 mpg. That’s the best gas mileage you’ll find on any car sold in the US — not bad for a five-passenger vehicle the EPA classifies as a midsize model!

4. Six trim levels offered. Leave it to Toyota to come up with easy to remember trim levels for the Prius line. The base trim is called the Prius Two and it is followed by the Two Eco, Three, Three Touring, Four, and the Four Touring. The base price comes in at $24,200 and rises to $30,000 for the Four Touring. Choose every conceivable package and option such as the Premium Convenience Package ($1,705), LED Illumination Package ($349), and a dual USB power port rear seat charge station ($119), and you’ll load up your vehicle accordingly.

2016 Toyota Prius

5. Nifty tech features for your consideration. Have you ever forgotten and regretted not bringing your charge cord with you? I have. Now you don’t have to keep one handy as the 2016 Prius comes with a Qi charging dock. Standard with the Prius Three trims on up, a charge indicating light tells you when it is at work. Other tech features include available automatic high beams, Siri Eyes Free, dual 4.2-inch thin film transistor multi-information display panels, and a 10-speaker Premium JBL audio system standard on the Prius Four.

6. Your safety is a priority. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has recognized the Prius with its Top Safety Pick+ award, its highest honor. This means the 2016 Prius achieved the institute’s highest score in all five crashworthiness categories. It also received a superior grade for its available front crash prevention system. All models come equipped with a driver and front passenger advanced airbag system, as well as driver and front passenger front seat-mounted side airbags, passenger seat cushion airbag, a driver’s knee airbag, and front and rear curtain shield airbags. The two “touring” models also include Toyota Safety Sense-P (TSS –(P)) – representing a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, automatic high beams and full-speed dynamic radar cruise control.

2016 Toyota Prius

TriPrius: 2016 Toyota Prius

A full review of the 2016 Toyota Prius will be published by the end of this month. Meanwhile, if you’re on Twitter you can find my updates via @theautowriter, where I share photos, industry news, and other snippets related to the auto industry.

2016 Toyota Prius

Ford Brings its EcoBoost Challenge to the Masses

May 19, 2015 by admin 1 Comment

The Ford Motor Company has a certain technology that it wants potential customers to know about. Called EcoBoost, it is all about enhancing engine performance, by adding direct fuel injection, turbochargers and variable valve technology to the affected engines. The result is more power squeezed from a smaller footprint, boosting fuel economy while reducing emissions.

Widespread EcoBoost Implementation

First introduced in 2009, the EcoBoost trademark has found its way into more than 6 million new vehicles. From a 3.5-liter V-6 engine all the way down to a 1.0-liter, three-cylinder, nearly every Ford product sold today has at least one such motor in the fleet.

However, the Ford Motor Company is not satisfied that people know or even appreciate what EcoBoost does. That’s why for the third consecutive year it has conducted clinics across the country — what’s known as the “EcoBoost Challenge” — in a bid to allow people to drive a variety of Ford products.

This year’s event, a 17-city tour, traveled through my area — Raleigh, NC — so I took up the media side of the challenge to see what it was all about. That means a handful of media were on hand the day before the public had its own chance of participating.

EcoBoost Challenge Road Show

The EcoBoost Challenge is a free event and typically located in a parking lot of a large arena. At the PNC Arena in Raleigh, Ford set up several sections for test driving and included drag racing, slalom and standard driving courses. On hand were the Fiesta ST, Focus ST, the 2.3-liter Mustang, Fusion, Transit Connect, Edge, F-150 and Expedition. A 2016 Ford Explorer, the next generation of this popular crossover utility vehicle, was present for display purposes only.

Besides permitting people to test drive the fleet, Ford demonstrated its automatic parking system, what now includes perpendicular parking assist. And for those people who may be skittish about driving a stick shift model, Ford even provided a “Shiftphobia” clinic to teach them how to get the job done.

This writer drove both the Fiesta ST and Focus ST, then got behind the wheel of a Fusion before tackling the Transit Connect. Saved for last was the Mustang, the first forced induction engine to power this pony car. That drive came just three weeks after a Mustang GT departed the media fleet. The added power was welcome, but the naturally-aspired six- or eight-cylinder engines shouldn’t be easily dismissed.

Potential Conquest Sales

EcoBoost represents a significant investment, even a risk for Ford, as turbocharger reliability concerns are valid. Turbochargers sometimes prove troublesome with outright failure a possibility. Some analysts, including Consumer Reports, aren’t impressed by the power or the fuel economy that such engines deliver. However, few people dismiss the low to mid rpm torque boost that such engines deliver. Furthermore, Ford has avoided the recall issues with its EcoBoost line and that’s a good indicator of its reliability.

From a marketing standpoint, Ford told Auto Trends that it is satisfied with the turn out it is seeing at this year’s EcoBoost Challenge, with more than 1,300 people showing up at Chicago and 750 registered in Raleigh. Of major importance is that Ford claims that 70 percent of the participants are not Ford owners, giving the company a chance to reach new customers.

Fortunately for those customers, no salespeople were on hand — contractors and Ford Motor Company were in attendance, but dealers were not included. Certainly, salespeople may yet follow up, but allowing people to get behind the wheel of a broad variety of Ford vehicles without sales pressure is too good of an opportunity for many people to pass up.

To find out where the EcoBoost Challenge is traveling, check out EcoBoostDrive.com for those details.

See Also — Ford Opens Order Book for 2019 Ranger

Wheels4Hope: Dependable Transportation For Low-Wage Earners

September 8, 2014 by admin 3 Comments

Updated August 19, 2019, to reflect office changes.

A North Carolina-based nonprofit is making a difference for thousands of residents.

Wheels4Hope.org — Chrysler and Dodge minivans await new owners.

Without a car, low-wage earners must resort to using public transportation — if that option is even available to them. In a pinch, they may call for Uber or Lyft, hail a cab, or ask a neighbor or a friend for a ride. Living without a vehicle can be extremely difficult for some, which is why “Wheels4Hope” is making a difference for thousands of North Carolina families.

Laying a Foundation

Founded at West Raleigh Presbyterian Church in 2000, Wheels4Hope was set in motion by a law professor (John Weistart) and a car guy/engineer (Chris Simes) to respond to what they saw was a pressing need among people of limited means. These men understood that without a vehicle certain pursuits we may take for granted — such as getting to work, keeping doctor’s appointments, or pursuing job training — are just not possible. For transportation=restricted individuals, the cycle of poverty might remain unbroken unless partners, including the faith-based community, interceded.

The two men organized Wheels4Hope as a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization and began their work. Wheels4Hope now teams with local churches and business partners to provide vehicles for needy families. The entire community also provides assistance with cash donations and vehicles — working or non-working. Most donated vehicles are repaired by volunteers and then sold to eligible families for a flat rate of $500. Their cost is usually thousands of dollars below the vehicle’s market value.

In 2009, the organization brought in a new board of directors and secured a corporate sponsor, Carquest Auto Parts. Wheels4Hope also moved to a larger garage. These changes have resulted in an increase in car donations and placement vehicles.

Reconstructing Broken Lives

On Sept. 1, 2014, the vehicle donation total for Wheels4Hope stood at 1,890. One of the recent recipients was LaSherron, a single mother of three. On a Saturday morning in August, LaSherron rose early to share some good news with her children: their prayers for a vehicle had been answered and the family would take possession of a clean 2002 Honda Odyssey EXL minivan that morning.

Delivering vehicles to waiting families is a very public affair. When it came time to bless LaSherron, Wheels4Hope worked with a local partner, Cars and Coffee Raleigh Grande, to present the Honda to her family. Hundreds of people witnessed the car blessing, accompanied by speeches, the presentation of car keys, photo opportunities, and interviews.

Presenting Wheels4Hope

For LaSherron, referred by the Catholic Charities of Raleigh — Support Circle Program, getting a vehicle meant that she could now go to work and school without relying on public transportation. Mobility issues that had long plagued the family were ended.

Auto Trends reached out to Wheels4Hope to learn more about this impactful organization. Carol House, External Relations and Compliance Coordinator for the nonprofit provided additional background details. She noted that Wheels4Hope is currently serving the Triangle (Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, et al) and Triad (Greensboro, Winston-Salem and High Point) regions.

When I noted that I had discovered a local Craigslist ad for a pair of Wheels4Hope vehicles, Ms. House explained that not all donated cars meet the program’s requirements and are, therefore, sold to the public. The proceeds from each sale are then poured into the program. Public sale vehicles are available on Tuesdays and Thursday in the Triangle and on Mondays in the Triad — those locations are listed at the end of this story.

Another one of the nearly 2,000 families and individuals helped by Wheels4Hope included LaTonya, referred by The Carying Place, a Christian ministry. LaTonya, who works full time and cares for her two pre-teen children, took possession of a 2002 Dodge Grand Caravan. The vehicle arrived just in time as she could no longer afford the payments on her leased vehicle that was about to be repossessed. LaTonya revealed, “I am able to put my kids in activities and provide them with transportation to get there or get my kids the tutoring they need.”

When her husband abandoned the family, Tara was left to raise three children (ages 2, 3 and 11) by herself. The family soon found themselves homeless and trying to maintain a 1997 Dodge Caravan in need of a new catalytic converter, something they had to have to pass inspection but could not afford. The Carying Place referred Tara to Wheels4Hope, which presented the family with a 2001 Chrysler Town & Country.

Tara’s family now has an apartment of their own and mom has secured employment. She calls her vehicle a “blessing from God,” with a nonprofit organization, community partners, businesses, and people like you making it possible.

Making a Difference

If you are interested in purchasing a vehicle offered for public sale, the following addresses and phone numbers should be consulted. Each location is staffed by volunteer salespeople.

Wheels4Hope Triangle
411 E. Durham Rd
Cary, NC 27511
919-832-1941

Wheels4Hope Triad
4006 Burlington Road
Greensboro, NC 27405
336-355-9130

Cars and Coffee: Best Informal Meet Ups Ever

July 30, 2014 by admin 1 Comment

What do you call a gathering of automotive enthusiasts that meets early on a Saturday morning to show off their rides? Well, if they’re drinking coffee while on site, there is a very good chance that you stumbled upon a Cars and Coffee event.

Enthusiasts gather at a Cars Coffee event in Cary, NC.

Cars and Coffee Contacts

Calling Cars Coffee an “event” bothers some people who consider these meet ups an informal gathering. For these participants, putting an “official” stamp on them seems to take away the very democratic nature of the function which says, “you bring your car and I’ll bring my car.” Such gatherings are held across the country and a number of organizers have set up Facebook pages and websites to tell people about their local shows.

My first visit to a Cars and Coffee event was in Nov. 2013, when I stumbled upon one in Cary, NC, not far from my home. That meet up was held at the upscale Waverly Place shopping center until this past spring when complaints about some of the participants and controversy over charging people to attend future gatherings forced its cancellation. Happily, a nearby gathering in Raleigh still goes on.

You never know what will show up including this Jaguar.

Cars Coffee Gatherings

To my knowledge, no Cars Coffee meet up involves paying a fee to “show and tell” and that is what attendees prefer. Yes, volunteers are needed and a local business must agree to host what is typically a meet involving hundreds of cars. What Cars and Coffee host site businesses understand is that you can create a tremendous amount of goodwill by sponsoring an event. Indeed, you stand to pull in much business especially if there is a place to eat onsite with delicious coffee served, of course.

Cars and Coffee got started in Southern California (where else?) and then spread like wildfire across the country, indeed throughout the world. There is no official sanctioning body in keeping with the informal nature of these gatherings. As for its history, the best information about its origins can be found on the Katie’s Cars Coffee website.

Cars & Coffee

Mopar madness at a Fayetteville, NC, gathering.

Word of Mouth

How do you find a Cars Coffee gathering in your area? Generally, by word of mouth. You can also type in “Cars and Coffee Yourtown” to find one in your area. A Google search may work out fine, but you should also search on Facebook. When on Facebook, you may find a gathering and learn that the page has not been updated in some time. That can indicate that the meet up is no longer taking place. If contact information is provided, then reach out to the organizer for current information. You will want to ask about other gatherings too.

Most Cars and Coffee gatherings are held on a fixed Saturday once a month — the first, second, third or fourth Saturday, for instance. In some areas, such as in Las Vegas, gatherings are held every Saturday. In more northerly locations meet ups may be suspended during the winter, typically starting up in April or May and running until Sept. or Oct. It is up to the local organizer on just how these gatherings are held and when.

Cars & Coffee

A roof top view of the first Cars and Coffee Raleigh Grande meet up.

Classic, Exotic and Future Models

What attracts many people to Cars and Coffee is the assortment of models that show up. There are regular attendees who bring their usual rides each month, with not a few showing off the customizations they recently completed.

Even so, it is often the exotic, classic or even future model that creates the most buzz. I was a happy participant of creating much buzz in Feb. 2014 when my press fleet rotation featured a 2015 Subaru WRX. What was special about that model is that it was both all-new and it was given to me several months before its public release. I promptly visited CC Cary with the WRX and was welcomed by adoring Subie faithful who inspected it closely.

Some gatherings emphasize the exotics and other high end models, while others welcome whatever car you are driving. Figure that the more popular a Cars and Coffee gathering is, the more likely the unusual will show up. That also creates a problem for some organizers who may tell people with more mundane rides to park their cars elsewhere. With limited number of space available, a Prius taking the spot away from a classic AMC Javelin might not be welcome. Again, that depends on the venue — some gatherings welcome whatever you are driving.

Cars and Coffee

This Ford roadster was spotted at Cars and Coffee in the Sandhills.

Amazing! Monster Jam 2014

April 21, 2014 by admin 1 Comment

If spiffed up trucks are your thing, then the traveling Monster Jam event is certainly not to be missed. Monster Jam is a two-hour competitive and theatrical performance of jacked up pickup trucks outfitted with 1500-horsepower engines and all the glitz, noise and hoopla to go with it. Our family took in Monster Jam 2014 when it appeared at the PNC Center in Raleigh, NC, this April, a show that isnt like any other.

Monster Jam

Traveling Motorsport Event

Monster Jam is a motorsport event and tour that travels the country, indeed the world. Feld Entertainment is behind Monster Jam, the same company that operates the Ringling Bros. and Barnum Bailey Circus you know, The Greatest Show on Earth. If you’ve ever been to a Disney On Ice or Disney Live performance, Feld runs those as well.

Although big on theatrics, Monster Jam is also a competition with dozens of drivers and their bedecked trucks competing. For the Raleigh event, six trucks participated: Madusa, Monster Mutt, Stone Crusher, Grave Digger, Hooked and the Lucas Oil Crusader.

And bedecked fails to adequately describe what you will see as each truck is of massive proportions, customized to accentuate an aggressive persona. Monster Mutt, for instance, is a kid favorite with his enormous floppy ears; stiff, upright tail; and cute-as-a-button face. Yet, a toothy snarl painted on the mutts side contradicts the playfulness, revealing that this dog has an intense bite.

The Stars and Their Trucks

The drivers or stars have their following with fans rooting for the trucks they want to come out on top. Drivers participate in racing and freestyle competitions with points awarded by three judges. The judges scores are based on the various stunts and tricks the drivers perform.

The trucks are noted for climbing on, over and circling around objects, usually junked cars that have been spray painted for accentuation. A crowd favorite are those times (and there were many) when a truck flies through the air to clear the junkers how long was the hang time for Cracked? Did he beat Lucas Oil and Monster Mutt?

Also of interest are those times when a truck climbs on top of a junker and the roof and pillars collapse. Madusa, Hooked and Grave Digger excelled in that department at least for one night.

Monster Jam World Finals

Besides the events which lead to an annual championship every March in Las Vegas with freestyle and racing champions named, each stop on the tour features a pit party where fans go to meet the stars and get their autographs. The pit party is a separate event, usually held late on a Saturday morning. Our show was on a Friday evening with two more shows scheduled the next day at 2 p.m. and again that evening.

Related to the event but sold separately are 1:64 scale Hot Wheels Monster Jam trucks. Each truck is of die-cast construction and has mega monster tires and four-wheel turning capabilities. A figure (driver) is included too. At the show, one set was given away; free tee shirts were shot into the crowd as well.

Monster Jam is loud, bright and it can even get you dirty especially if you sit up front and a truck suddenly begins doing donuts. Dirt flies nearly everywhere including into the lower seats small chunks, but offering fans a big surprise at that.

Special thanks to announcer Larry Jewett for securing a complimentary set of tickets for my family.

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