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THE DRIVE with Alan Taylor | Episode #304

Automotive manufacturers are blowing our minds with the things they can make our cars do these days. However, there are still many questions that journalists are asking about the future of mobility. We chat with Karl Brauer, Executive Publisher of Kelley Blue Book, about the judging of The North American Car of the Year and society’s acceptance of the autonomous vehicle. Then, automotive journalist BJ Killeen tells us about Volvo’s climb to the top and their new ‘Care’ program. Next, Dave Kindig, Host of Bitchin’ Rides, tells us about Season 4 of their show and some of their projects we can look forward to seeing at SEMA 2017. Switching gears, Lauren Fix, The Car Coach, expresses her distaste for sellers of unreported flood-damaged cars. Should this be a felony? Then, Brian Moody, Executive Editor of Autotrader, talks with us about Certified Pre-Owned vehicles. We end the hour with Mark Murphy, Founder of TravelPulse, explains why you shouldn’t get too upset when your dream vacation spot is splashed all over the media. Listen now.

• [00:00:00] North American Car of the Year is Being Judged
• [00:05:55] Acceptance of Autonomous Technology
• [00:12:31] Volvo Continues to Climb to the Top
• [00:19:53] Introducing the Care by Volvo
• [00:26:06] ’57 Corvette is Something Special
• [00:35:57] Kindig-it Design Doesn’t Stop at Classics
• [00:42:17] Selling Flood-Damaged Cars Should be a Felony!
• [00:49:00] Due Diligence Before You Purchase a Used Car
• [00:54:49] Lawyers are Anxiously Awaiting Autonomous Cars
• [01:02:10] Certified Pre-Owned is the Only Way to Go
• [01:11:52] News Coverage Dampens Travel Plans
• [01:18:13] Hidden Travel Fees in Cheap Tickets

Discover more about segments and guests below…

[00:00:00] North American Car of the Year is Being Judged

With so many amazing vehicles on the market, it’s becoming more difficult to narrow down the perfect ride for you. We talk with Kelley Blue Book’s Karl Brauer about The North American Car of the Year Award, whose jury is funded independently by a collective soul of the industry. Jurors from across the U.S. and Canada pick their favorite car from each of their 12 categories before determining the final winner. The award will be announced in January at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Tune in.

[00:05:55] Acceptance of Autonomous Technology

Autonomous cars will soon be hitting the road. Recently, the government released updated testing procedures modulating speed and safety so manufacturers will know what steps to take to get these cars up to spec. Karl Brauer, Kelley Blue Book’s Executive Publisher, explains that the new rules didn’t hinder the tech company’s progress and they continue to move forward. We are still a few years away from seeing autonomous cars in every driveway, but it’s time to accept that it’s on the horizon. As with any new technology, there will be some kinks to iron out, but OEMs are hard at work to ensure the safety of autonomous technology.

[00:12:31] Volvo Continues to Climb to the Top

Automakers are constantly trying to make their way to the top, and Volvo is making a run for the crown. Automotive journalist, BJ Killeen, tells us that Volvo has been working on their compact modular architecture. Built on this newest platform, the Volvo XC40 that looks like a shrunken version of the XC90, and comes in affordably at around $35,000. BJ raves about the stunning design and unique white driftwood accent that adorns it. Volvo is on a roll; They’re continuing to take safety to another level, and their sales are ramping up like crazy. Get ready to be impressed by Volvo.

[00:19:53] Introducing Care by Volvo

At the beginning of the year, Cadillac introduced ‘Book by Cadillac’, a service that allows you to rent a vehicle for a monthly payment. Automotive journalist BJ Killeen tells us about the newest player for this type of program. Volvo has just announced that they will be introducing Care by Volvo, a subscription-based service that makes it possible for you to experience the best Volvo has to offer. While the little details remain a mystery, we eagerly anticipate this program’s release. What kind of lifestyle would this ‘glorified lease’ suit?

[00:26:06] ’57 Corvette is Something Special

After all our parents have done for us, it’s nice to give back, and Dave Kindig, Host of Bitchin’ Rides, did it right. His wife’s dad has owned a ’57 Chevrolet Corvette since ’65 and Dave decided it was time to transform it into his dream ride. For Season 4, they tore down and reconstructed this classic to create a very special gift for his father-in-law. Dave reveals that it will be on display at SEMA 2017, along with a ’57 Ford Fairlane, and more. This guy has been designing cars since he was a kid, and they will blow your mind. Are you ready for some more Bitchin’ Rides?

[00:35:57] Kindig-it Design Doesn’t Stop at Classics

Dave Kindig, Owner of Kindig-it Design, knows how to restore an amazing classic, but his skills don’t stop there. Recently he and his son have been dreaming of bringing the iconic look of 1962 to the new Lincoln Continental. From taking the top off to voiding the warranties, Kindig-it Design will stop at nothing to make this ride look hot. Dave also tells us about the eight cars they will be taking to SEMA 2017. Dave’s television show Bitchin’ Rides gives an intimate look at all the hard work that goes into their restorations. Discover which rides will be making their way down to Las Vegas in November.

[00:42:17] Selling Flood-Damaged Cars Should be a Felony!

After all of the devastating natural disasters, it’s time for automotive buyers to beware. Recently, an estimated 1-million cars were destroyed in the floods brought on by the slew of hurricanes that hit our country. The Car Coach, Lauren Fix, believes that sneakily selling a flood-damaged car should be a felony. While this is not the case, she strongly urges buyers to keep an eye out for tell-tale signs of a flood-damaged vehicle. However, if you’re in the market for parts then this could be your lucky year. Cars that sit damaged may still have some very valuable attributes, like that classic door handle you’ve been on the hunt for. Hear tips on what to look for in a vehicle after a flood.

[00:49:00] Due Diligence Before You Purchase a Used Car

Used cars can always be a scary purchase especially if you don’t know where they came from. The Car Coach, Lauren Fix, sheds light on some of the hidden issues that often plague flood-damaged cars. Electronic components are so easily affected and it could render your airbags or anti-lock brakes ineffective. This is a scary thought and it’s wise to research the car with a vehicle reporting company before you buy. Unfortunately, there are dishonest people that will wash the title and make it difficult to track down. Trust your gut and know before you buy.

[00:54:49] Lawyers are Anxiously Awaiting Autonomous Cars

How will autonomous cars fare in the event of a natural disaster? In the aftermath of the hurricanes, we can’t help but realize that the more electronics a car has, the more damage they are susceptible to. Lauren Fix, The Car Coach, tells us that it’s the lawyers that are most excited about the release of the autonomous vehicle, and attorneys are beginning to specialize in this new area of the automotive industry. Hear thoughts on the future of these self-driving rides.

[01:02:10] Certified Pre-Owned is the Only Way to Go

Let’s face it, there are some pretty good deals on used cars and it’s not always easy to spot a lemon. Fortunately, Brian Moody, Executive Editor of Autotrader, gives tips on how to make sure you get a quality vehicle. Going through a dealership is always a good decision because their license is on the line if they sell you a damaged car, adding an extra layer of assurance. The best way to ensure that you are not being scammed is to stick to Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles. CPOs must past a series of guidelines before they get the certification. Spending the extra money upfront could protect you from unforeseen issues. Learn how to shop pre-owned now.

[01:11:52] News Coverage Dampens Travel Plans

We all hear the horrific news stories about our favorite travel destinations, but it is important to focus on the whole picture. Mark Murphy, Founder of TravelPulse, informs us that the media narrows the scoop of what we see. There are over 75% of the Caribbean businesses still in operation, and they depend on tourism to survive. If we all suddenly turn our backs on these areas then we will be removing the funding they need to rebuild. Purchasing travel insurance can help you rest assured that if your travel destination is hit by a disaster, they can reroute you to somewhere else. Discover how to book safe travel plans.

[01:18:13] Hidden Travel Fees in Cheap Tickets

Airlines are making tickets cheaper and frequent flyers are jumping for joy. Well, its time to look at these fares a little closer and TravelPulse’s Founder, Mark Murphy, tells us why. Airlines are unbundling their tickets, so your low-cost flight doesn’t even include luggage. This may fool you, and by the time you arrive at the airport, you’re paying an extra $100 just to board the plane. A bargain ticket can look like much less from afar but by paying a bit more for one step up can save you from the hidden fees. Educate yourself before you fly.

Explore More with Helpful Links:

• Contributor: Karl Brauer | Executie Publisher, Kelley Blue Book
• Contributor: BJ Killeen | Automotive Journalist
• Guest: Dave Kindig | Host, Bitchin’ Rides
• Guest: Lauren Fix | Automotive Analyst, The Car Coach
• Guest: Brian Moody | Executive Editor, Autotrader
• Guest: Mark Murphy | Founder, TravelPulse
• Service: Care by Volvo

Episode Credits:

• Program Host: Alan Taylor
• Producer: Dave Milligan
• Production Assistant: Joanne Bolden
• Audio Engineer: Dave Milligan
• Copy Editor: Jess Baumgardner

Our Sponsors & Supported Charities:

• Austin Hatcher Foundation
• Barrett-Jackson
• Brembo
• Bridgestone
• Dodge
• Foundation of Human Understanding
• Go RVing
• Haynes Manuals
• Katzkin
• Patriot Outreach
• Shell
• Subaru
• The Little Rock Foundation

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