RichC | February 19, 2010
Slipped my mind, but wanted to make a note on my blog to be sure all Cincinnati area VW TDI people knew about the CinciTDI.com / TDIClub.com GTG tomorrow — 8am February 20th. Feb 20th GTG @Dubwerx Its official, Dubwerx is hosting our GTG on Feb 20th, at 8:00 to whenever we get kicked out.Dubwerks […]
RichC | February 9, 2010
I had to chuckle this morning when registering my vote on the Wall Street Journal poll for best and worst commercial during the Super Bowl – Audi was first in both (click for graphic of poll). See ad video below It’s "Green Police" ad was the sixth most popular in USA TODAY’S Ad Meter, in […]
RichC | February 7, 2010
Replaced the rear brakes on my daughter’s 2001 Volkswagen Jetta TDI for the second time in its life this weekend. They were in pretty bad shape, but I enjoyed being able to exchange the “liftetime warranty pads” at Autozone for free. The loner tool program and easy to use warranty make it a “recommended” place […]
RichC | January 25, 2010
Still waiting for the boxer Subaru diesel in the U.S. I know a few people who would enjoy a solidly built all-wheel drive diesel, be it one from VW, Audi or Subaru … or for that matter a domestic manufacturer. Subaru Impreza 2.0 RC diesel MENTION the Subaru Impreza and most people think of the […]
RichC | January 22, 2010
Thanks for the link Scott … 😉 Posted via email from richc’s posterous
RichC | December 16, 2009
While stopping for lunch and killing time before my next appointment, I wanted to test the Posterous to blog set-up using my Palm Pre. Included in this post is a photo from a page of the Wall Street Journal Personal section and an article on ‘The Surge in Electric Cars’ — I will try to […]
RichC | December 2, 2009
Volkswagen continues to entice those appreciating ‘green’ diesel vehicles with their UpLite concept at the LA Auto Show. The new design is said to use diesel electric combination to achieve 70mpg, while still offering a degree of comfort and styling. From the photos posted on Autoblog.com, the new VW also looks to be offering function […]
RichC | November 25, 2009
The Discovery Channel is active in reviewing science research in alternative energy and can usually dice apart the ‘self-promotion’ of company researcher as well as combat the establish energy industry’s lobby efforts. One industry that I advocate is ‘algae to biofuel fuel’ research. The benefit in using algae as a feedstock for biofuels is that […]
RichC | November 24, 2009
Although I’m not complaining about fuel prices considering our weak dollar — especially as we roll into a week of heavy travel — I did find it shocking that regular unleaded gasoline prices are nearly 40% higher today than they were last year at this time. (photo left taken 11/23/2008 in Monroe, OH) Of big […]
RichC | November 23, 2009
John Matras, Auto Review Examiner, posted a great write up on his Road Test of a 2010 Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen TDI. It’s an enjoyable and informative read highlighting a few lessor known features on Volkswagen vehicles. “The Jetta SportWagen’s front seats must be moved forward to lower the rear seats but then can be moved […]
RichC | November 21, 2009
Belated adding of an update regarding biodiesel fuel prices from my trip to New York last week. This Sunoco is a favorite renewable fuel station even though I’m no longer driving a diesel vehicle. The current price is and has been higher than regular unleaded gasoline ($2.51), so it doesn’t bother me too much; the […]
RichC | November 17, 2009
From Time Magazine’s How Audi is Cleaning Up with Clean Diesel‘s question and answer with Johan de Nysschen, president of Audi’s U.S. division: Audi is instead touting the benefits of diesel technology. How do you get around the negative perception of diesel cars in the U.S.? Clean-diesel technology represents an immediate technological leap — you […]
RichC | November 12, 2009
Seeing a Honda key used in a Wall Street Journal ad promoting classified auto listings made me chuckle — I’ve never noticed a Honda being advertised with the columns of Bentley, Ferrari, Maybach, Lamborghini, Aston Martin and Maserati nameplates. Perhaps the recession is impacting auto selection of WSJ subscribers? 🙂
RichC | November 10, 2009
Changes in the “big three” … world automakers that is: Volkswagen Toyota Ford VW overtake Toyota as the world’s largest automaker Well ahead of VW initial projection of becoming the world’s largest automaker by 2018, it has now officially surpassed Toyota Motor Corp. worldwide in unit production this year. Over the weekend, German reports put […]
RichC | November 8, 2009
As I watched the paramedics and emergency workers waiting for the life-flight helicopter and cutting apart the car that a young man was driving on Bethany Road behind our house on Sunday morning, I couldn’t help but feel for the boys’ parents who stood looking on helplessly. From preliminary reports, he was heading home from […]
RichC | November 5, 2009
If you enjoy snapping your Volkswagen around a corner or stopping fast enough launch your sunglasses into the windshield, then you might want to consider the VW TDI Cup “Street” Edition. It’s closest kin is the Jetta GLI … but with a diesel engine. Volkswagen announced that the TDI Cup Edition Jettas should be in […]
RichC | November 3, 2009
Volkswagen’s clean diesel TDI models continue to perform especially well. Jetta TDI sales accounted for 40 percent of total Jetta sedan and SportWagen sales, while sales of all TDI models accounted for 24 percent of total October sales. (LINK) HERNDON, Va., Nov. 3 /PRNewswire/ — Volkswagen of America, Inc. today reported October 2009 sales of […]
RichC | October 28, 2009
Enjoyable to watch the patience of drivers … how long do you suspect this woman took to park her car? It’s no wonder automakers are building cars with automatic parallel parking features. From comment on previous post — thanks Marielle.
RichC | October 25, 2009
I’ve been happy with the overall cost of ownership of my 2006 Honda Pilot SUV … including the fuel efficiency. Besides oil and fluid changes, the only other expense of ownership over the past 87,000 miles to date has been a battery and of course gasoline. Click for larger image After posting my latest fill-up […]
RichC | October 24, 2009
Although the Science Channel program “How It’s Made” isn’t one of the most exciting television programs, it does offer a glimpse as to what it takes to manufacture complex items. I happened to watch an episode on how Audi builds its 6-cylinder TDI diesel engine the other day and found it interesting (video clip below). […]
RichC | October 3, 2009
While picking up some touch up paint today, I saw the first couple 2010 model TDIs. Here’s a nice looking diesel Sportwagen in a Plat Grey color (Palm Pre photo) … and sporting the new front end. It definitely looks ‘sporty’ … although this one was the DSG transmission.
RichC | October 2, 2009
Volkswagen diesel fans have been waiting a few years for the return of the Golf (Rabbit) TDI. It’s due arrive to North American shores as a 2010 model. Shockingly the four door 2010 Golf TDI will be priced $150 cheaper than the four door gasoline powered Rabbit: base price $19,890. See Motor Trend’s Wide Open […]
RichC | September 30, 2009
While traveling a couple hundred miles from home today the battery in my 2006 Honda Pilot just died. No warning, no instrument panel lights, no discolored “eye” (still green) and NO juice. Fortunately I live in “middle America” where people are still friendly and motorist even stop to help each other out. Although I had […]
RichC | September 28, 2009
You just gotta love a biodiesel powered car like Jay Leno’s “more money than brains ” (his words) EcoJet (previous post). I’ll be anxious to get the full performance reports (with economy figures) and look forward to solutions to keep the EcoJet quiet — here’s a thought?
RichC | September 28, 2009
It has been frustrating for wannabe Volkswagen TDI buyers planning to purchase a new 2009 diesel late this summer or fall. Most have discovered that there are none to be had and that MSRP and sometimes above is required to get on a dealer list for a 2010 first off the boat (happening this week!) […]
RichC | September 21, 2009
Volkwagen TDI friend Eric R. and I filmed a new CinciTDI “How-To” video on Sunday afternoon and as installed his new Dieselgeek Panzer skidplate and ‘Full Metal Jacket‘ side skirts (great kit Jim). The installation was easy and although we were puzzled by a couple of the tabs on the side skirts — but it […]
RichC | September 17, 2009
The 2009 X5 35d and 2009 335d The Frankfurt Automotive show is one of the biggest in the world and is a good place for diesel vehicle makers to show their new ideas. BMW is no exception, having debuted a couple new and very impressive twin-turbo diesel in the U.S. this year — my comments. […]
RichC | September 16, 2009
At the Frankfurt Motor Show, Volkswagen debuted its ultra-efficient L1 Concept, which follows in the footstep of the One-Liter Concept from 2002. The L1 derives its name from the fact it takes around one liter of diesel fuel to propel the car 100 kilometers (62 miles). According to press reports, the car is said to […]
RichC | September 10, 2009
The conclusion many might make from a recent Popular Mechanic article is that diesel vehicles might be a good solution when fuel prices are high, but they don’t want to spend more for them when fuel prices are low. According to JD Power’s Omotoso, hybrids are projected to become 9.5 percent of the passenger-car market […]
RichC | September 9, 2009
Inventories for diesel vehicles in the U.S. are near ‘zero’ — it’s a frustrating time for a guy who has been waiting for his next Volkswagen TDI … or BMW diesel. Thankfully I can wait and am not in absolute need of a new car, but having to pay MSRP and above, “IF” one can […]
RichC | September 1, 2009
While have some service done on my Honda Pilot today, I went around the back of the dealership to see the rows and rows of ‘Clunkers.’ No doubt the government money — MY tax dollars — being used for this program has encouraged some new vehicle shopping, but it has also retired some nice looking […]
RichC | August 27, 2009
When oil prices doubled not too long ago, many along with our government saw expanding clean, renewable and domestic biofuels as one component that could help our nation become more self sufficient. Just as many pointed out that an agricultural based source would not provide real solutions to the problem in part due to the […]
RichC | August 24, 2009
An odd article today in the Wall Street Journal that has drivers of the island nation of Samoa ordered to switch from driving on the right to the left. The prime minister, Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi, has pushed for the change and is refusing to back down even with a significant push from resident, including a […]
RichC | August 21, 2009
A 2009 Intellichoice survey compared the cost of ownership beyond the sticker price by factoring in depreciation, financing, fuel, Insurance, maintenance, repairs and state fees. By doing this, consumers should have a better idea of what a vehicle’s long-term ownership costs might be and better be able to decide which vehicle is a better overall […]
RichC | August 20, 2009
One has to think twice before grimacing when seeing those tiny Smart ForTwo car(t)s rolling down the highway … especially if you’re in a bow-tied import like the Chevrolet Aveo (Daewoo Korean built Chevrolet). A recent report issued by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) found that the Smart ForTwo performed the best in […]
RichC | August 11, 2009
After reading and commenting on an article in the Wall Street Journal this morning regarding the upcoming Chevrolet Volt boasting 230 mpg, about all I can say is we (the EPA) needs to create a new system of calculating fuel economy. It’s a bit misleading for a family sized sedan to be able to claim […]
RichC | July 2, 2009
Sales for the “clean diesel” Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen TDI were impressive in the month of June for Volkswagen of America. SportWagen sales accounted for 81% of all SportWagens sold. The TDI version of the Jetta and Touareg were impressive as well, accounting for 40% of Jetta sales and 29% of the Touareg SUV sales. American […]
RichC | June 18, 2009
Our local VW TDI group is working on a ‘welcome bag’ item for this year’s TDIFest 2009 near Washington DC (Herndon, Virginia). CinciTDI.com group, which hosted the TDIFest OH8 last year, has decided to offer up something for the registrants. Initially we though about a small canvas portfolio bag, a 12 LED flashlight (still pretty […]
RichC | June 3, 2009
Don’t miss the tuning session on Saturday June 13th if your Volkwagen TDI diesel needs a bit more get up and go. Jeff Robinson from Rocketchip will be at Jon Hamilton’s garage working his magic. Be early if you don’t want to wait. Jon’s Auto LLC is proud to present the return of Jeff from […]
RichC | May 29, 2009
According to VW of America spokesman Steve Keyes, the 2010 North American version of the European Golf wagon, the VW Jetta Sportwagen, will see a facelift this fall. Keyes told Autoblog: “In order to simplify production, we’ll make the change to our Jetta and as an added benefit, we believe the customers will appreciate the […]
RichC | May 27, 2009
I’ve been wanting to include this Volkswagen Jetta TDI ‘clean diesel’ television commercial for a few weeks now — the “What’s your hybrid sound like?” answer makes me smile every time.
RichC | May 26, 2009
Being on the Ohio roads regularly for business and pleasure had me pondering my home state’s ranking in the National Motorists Association‘s Memorial Day review of the least friendly states for drivers. The survey used 17 criteria that unfortunately placed Ohio just behind New Jersey as the most unfriendly state for drivers. The state rankings […]
RichC | May 25, 2009
Memorial Day weekend was the first chance I had to get a close up view of the ‘new to North America’ V-6 TDI 3.0L version of the diesel Volkswagen Touareg 2. Most TDI advocates have been wondering just when the ‘realistic’ version of a VW SUV was going to arrive in the states … seeing […]
RichC | May 23, 2009
The long running automotive magazine program Motorweek praised the 2009 Volkwagen Jetta TDI as their 2009 Driver’s Choice pick for car of the year, while not mentioning the sister “Sportwagen” TDI … until today. _
RichC | May 14, 2009
After billions of American taxpayer dollars, concessions from labor and retirees, thousands of job losses, threats of bankruptcy and government nationalization of the company … management has the audacity to plan on importing Chinese-built vehicles in 2011 order “to save on manufacturing costs.” How can Americans who through all this considered supporting GM swallow this? […]
RichC | May 12, 2009
Although some in the Obama administration have proposed that raising taxes on fuel is one way to encourage driving less and buying smaller more fuel efficient vehicles, Americans surveyed by Rasmussen don’t like it. A short FoxNews interview with Scott Rasmussen highlights that 81% oppose additional fuel taxes, although they seem to be a bit […]
RichC | May 5, 2009
There’s an excellent new Volkswagen TDI Truth & Dare consumer blog and video marketing campaign attempting to educate American’s about ‘clean diesel’ cars. Volkswagen seeks to build on diesels reputation for economy, longevity and resale value by putting to rest the connotation that they are also slow, loud and dirty. The great videos associated with […]
RichC | April 25, 2009
I’ve posted a couple times (1 & 2) before on Terrafugia’s Transition experimental airplane/car and wanted to include a little video from the Tampa Fox affiliate taken at the Sun ‘n Fun airshow in Landland Florida. A group of students from M.I.T. developed a two-seat aircraft that can take off and land at small airports […]
RichC | April 18, 2009
I’m not a Type-A personality, nor do I frustrate easily, but that said, I do spend a significant amount of time on the road and appreciate being able to liberally use the throttle to get where I need to go … which in a diesel vehicle can still be pretty efficient. Thankfully, I haven’t noticed […]
RichC | April 9, 2009
The new VW Golf shows off its lines at the New York Auto show on April 8, 2009. The new looks is a tad bit more chiseled than the previous model, but retains all the functionality and sporty European handling known to Rabbit and Golf owners. All in all, its a good look. Volkswagen also […]
RichC | April 8, 2009
According to an “Wheels” article today in the New York Times, Stefan Jacoby, president and chief executive of Volkswagen Group of America talked and promoted clean diesel over electric and hybrid vehicles a the New York auto show. He was the keynote speaker at the annual breakfast for the press and took the opportunity to […]
RichC | April 7, 2009
Nissan announced a couple new 370Z models today in New York including the 2010 370Z Roadster. This impressive and affordable performance car is winning over enthusiasts and will by the end of summer have a top down sibbling. The 2010 Nizzan 370Z Roadster sports a no-touch convertible top will make for a very easy to […]
RichC | April 6, 2009
(click for larger image) I’ve never been all that attracted to the ‘add-on’ chrome tailpipe trend which has become the norm in recent years, but now that many of these cars have a few years of age they are becoming downright ugly. While spending a few days driving this past week I notice a relatively […]
RichC | April 3, 2009
Even a frugal diesel guy like me can’t resist enjoying watching 705 HP of American steel (and fiberglass) do 185mph in standing mile “warm up run.” That’s flying.
RichC | April 1, 2009
If you are in the market for a new car or truck this year, the IRS will assist by at least making the “sales tax” deductible. There are a few caveats, which includes a short window since the car, truck, motorhome or motorcycle needs to be purchase between February 16, 2009 and January 1, 2010 […]
RichC | March 31, 2009
If you are near West Chester, Ohio in eastern Butler county Tuesday night, consider filling up your car while saying hello to volunteers from a church called Journey. (they meet at the Lakota East High School in Liberty Township on Sundays) According to Youth Minister, Luke Dooley (@yeloodekul), members will be staffing a couple pumps […]
RichC | March 31, 2009
Volkswagen Jetta TDI fans will enjoy seeing their long lasting and economical diesel being used in NYC as a taxicab. In the newer body style, rear seats have a couple more inches, so really the A5 Jetta makes perfect sense as a taxi. If you’ve ever looked at the trunk (boot), you’d know that luggage […]
RichC | March 30, 2009
Volkswagen has done a great job with the design of the new Golf GTD. Its design is similar to the popular Rabbit Golf although has a noticeable sporty edge. VW says it will stress fuel efficiency, clean diesel and better performance over the European Golf TDI. According to Motortrend, “under its hood is a more […]
RichC | March 28, 2009
Sort of a short sailing/vehicle post today as I noticed that Richard Jenkins from the UK brought the land speed record for a wind-powered vehicle this month. He reached 126.1 mph in his Greenbird “car” … if you can call it that. It reminds me of an ice boat, but is and extremely efficient and […]
RichC | March 24, 2009
I’d be all set if I only knew a bit more about algae based fuels — like biodiesel make from algae! (mentioned many times before) Here in southwest Ohio I’ve seen more than one pond or small lake showing signs of spring; it the algae bloom season. The heavy algae growth come a bit before […]