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The Volkswagen ID.7 EV sedan is rolling out.
And what VW is calling the 'upper' midsize sedan class hits initial markets soon. Fall of 2023 to be exact.
Ontario Volkswagen is iDriveSoCal's Southern California VW Dealer
Being recently announced worldwide. VW is calling ID.7 a global product. And it's joining the ID.4 and ID.Buzz in being USA made. That's taking place at Volkswagen's Chattanooga, Tennesse campus.
Brand Halos - VW ID.7 EV Sedan And ID.Buzz
VW is calling its all-new electric sedan one of its brand halos. That along with the highly anticipated electric minivan, the ID.Buzz.
While the ID.Buzz leans on the brand's iconic and world-renowned microbus heritage. The Volkswagen ID.7 EV sedan
leans on the brand's heritage of making quality affordable four-door passenger cars.
What's The Volkswagen ID.7 EV Sedan Look Like?
The ID.7 is based on Volkswagen's MEB (modular electric drive matrix) platform. As is the brand's ID.4 which is a crossover SUV.
Being based on the same platform there are exterior similarities. And in this case, many.
So the ID.7 is sleeker and appears more stretched out in comparison to ID.4. ID.7 is a fastback that's athletic and aerodynamic looking. Volkswagen has yet to release exact specifications for ID.7.
But referring to the EV as an upper midsize class. As well as a brand halo. Indicates that the ID.7 is likely Volkswagen's largest EV sedan on the drawing board.
MEB platform provides maximum interior space
VW ID.7 Interior
The skateboard-like MEB platform was designed with EVs in mind. Placing the electric vehicle battery and its weight across the length and width of the vehicle and between the axles. Allowing for maximum use of interior space.
So while we don't yet have exact ID.7 specifications. It seems safe to state that there's ample interior space for five passengers. And that the interior space will carry Volkswagen's legendary fit and finish forward.
Between the hatch/fastback design and the MEB platform, we expect a cavernous cargo area. Especially when folding down the backseats.
ID.7 Technology And Innovation
Also, Volkswagen is announcing that the ID.7 is pushing that brand forward with new technology and innovations.
Overall Volkswagen is calling ID.7's interior premium and it certainly appears that's a fair description. With pinhole leather or leather-like surfaces and badging. As well as a minimalist yet elegant appearance.
15" Touchscreen
So the primary driver interface for the electric vehicle is the 15-inch touchscreen. That sits in the center stack position. And it builds on the success of similar interfaces in previous Volkswagen EVs.
Heads-Up Display
Then there's a heads-up display that looks magnificent in a promotional video being released by Volkswagen. Because it's crystal clear, full color, and tough to imagine a better display.
Minimal In-Dash Driver Information
Traditionally instrumentation is loaded into the dashboard in front of the driver. But ID.7 does away with that. Leaving just a small monitor with what VW refers to as just the necessary info in drivers' view.
Memory Climate Ventilation
Another tech innovation in ID.7 is Volkswagen's memory ventilation functionality. Smart vents are similar to memory seats. Both driver and passenger ventilation direction settings can be saved with different profiles. Making it simple to reset them when needed.
Proximity Cabin Climatizing
Additionally, ID.7 recognizes when drivers approach the vehicle. And it can begin cooling or heating the vehicle's interior accordingly.
ID.7 Range And Performance
With rear-wheel drive, the Volkswagen ID.7 EV sedan is reporting more than 300 miles of range. And that's thanks in part to the aerodynamic design and MEB platform.
Drag Coefficient
The drag coefficient is a statistic that's referred to more and more with electric vehicles. And the Volkswagen ID.7 EV sedan's drag coefficient is .23. -
When it comes to the best Volkswagen SUV the competition is tight!And whether you are leasing or buying the European car maker is offering some compelling sport-ute options.Pondering which one is the best of them all is logical. But it's also subjective. Because mine is one of the countless opinions.⇒ Your SoCal VW Dealer is Ontario Volkswagen!To clarify, driving all Volkswagen SUVs many times gives me some authority. However, first I want to share how you can easily pick the best Volkswagen SUV for your needs.Then I'll drive you to my conclusion as to which Volkswagen SUV is best - in my opinion.-->Continue Reading Below And Click/Tap To Listen
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Volkswagen SUV models have included a growing list of both internal combustion engines and, now, an electric vehicle too.
So, here in the US market buyers have the selection of a subcompact, compact, and two midsized SUVs. But that doesn't account for the new EV which adds another compact to the mix.
-->Click play below to listen or continue reading.<--
Midsize - Atlas
2021 Volkswagen Atlas - 3-row Midsize
By EPA class definition the 2021Atlas is a midsize crossover SUV. But it's arguably a full-size crossover SUV. Because it offers more cargo space than some definitively full-size SUVs. Plus, its 3-rows of seating is spacious enough for 7-adult passengers. And being able to comfortably fit adults in a 3rd-row can be a major factor for some buyers.
2021 Volkswagen Atlas:
Class: Midsize/full-size
Starting price: $30,855
Seating: 3-rows, 7-passenger
MPG range: 17 to 24 mpg
End-to-End Atlas Cross Sport to Atlas - VW SUV Models
Left: Atlas Cross Sport | Right: Atlas
Midsize - Atlas Cross Sport
The 2021 Atlas Cross Sport ushers in its second model year. And the Atlas Cross Sport shares the same wheelbase of 117.3-inches as its bigger sibling Atlas. However, the Atlas Cross Sport is shorter overall at 195.5" to the Atlas's 200.7". Both of the 2021 VW SUV models are great-looking. But the Atlas Cross Sport poses slightly more athletic with its raked rear roof.
2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport:
Class: Midsize
Starting price: $30,855
Seating: 2-rows, 5-passenger
MPG range: 17 to 24 mpg
Compact - Tiguan
'21 Tiguan SE R-Line Black trim
The Tiguan is Volkswagen's 2021 compact SUV model. And like both its larger siblings, it's big and comfortable inside. It's worth noting that the optional 3rd-row of seating is sized for children. Or adults that are pretty small. Tiguan is a fun crossover SUV to drive. Because its turbocharged 4-cylinder balances nicely with the vehicle's less than 3,900 curb weight.
2021 Volkswagen Tiguan:
Class: Compact
Starting price: $25,245
Seating: 2-rows w/ optional 3rd-row, 5 to 7-passenger
MPG range: 21 to 29 mpg
Compact - ID.4 EV
2021 VW ID.4 EV
ID.4 is the first electric vehicle in the United States on Volkswagen's new MEB platform. And the ID.4 is a compact sport utility electric vehicle. The modular electric drive matrix platform is already in use for the ID.3 sedan. But that's available in Europe only. With ID.4 the Volkswagen SUV models increase to four. With it being the first EV.
2021 Volkswagen ID.4:
Class: Compact Electric Vehicle
Starting price: $32,495 (with tax credits)
Seating: 2-rows
Range: Up to 310 miles w/ full charge
Subcompact - Taos
2022 Taos with Basecamp package
ID.4 is the first electric vehicle in the United States on Volkswagen's new MEB platform. And the ID.4 is a compact sport utility electric vehicle. The modular electric drive matrix platform is already in use for the ID.3 sedan. But that's available in Europe only. With ID.4 the Volkswagen SUV models increase to four. With it being the first EV.
2022 Volkswagen Taos:
Class: Subcompact
Starting price: $22,995
Seating: 2-rows
MPG range: 25 to 36 mpg
Volkswagen SUV Models At Ontario VW
For deep-dive details on all 2021 and 2022 Volkswagen models including crossover SUVs be sure to check out our reviews.
And if you're looking to buy a VW go see my friends at Ontario Volkswagen in Southern California's Inland Empire.
Earl Reed, GM @ Ontario VW & Me
All The Latest Volkswagen News HERE. -
Distracted driving can be tragic because the accidents it causes are 100% preventable. Want to know how? This distracted driving ultimate avoidance guide demonstrates what distracted driving is and how law enforcement like the California Highway Patrol is working to stop it.
Too often, when Officer Simone Yarbrough of the California Highway Patrol (CHP) South L.A. office arrives at a crash scene, the driver is already dead. It's worse when he sees a cell phone lying on the floor, still blinking, with a message half-written out.
“Back in the day, DUI used to be the biggest killer of our drivers on the road,” Yarbrough said. “Well, not any longer. It’s distracted driving.”
Parents must set the example for their kids.
What is Distracted Driving?
According to Yarbrough, our cell phones are a huge part of the problem. But, by no means, are they the only part of the problem.
"Anything that takes your mind and your eyes off the road is distracted driving," he said. "You can be drinking coffee, putting on makeup, shaving, eating food. People drive and read the newspaper at the same time."
Even helping a child or adjusting a navigation system can be distracted driving, because it moves the driver's attention away from the road ahead. Yarbrough's given citations for eating in a car. And he's even pulled mothers over to educate them about the dangers of breastfeeding while driving.
Parents Teach Your Kids
When teens are involved in distracted driving incidents, Yarbrough extends some of the blame to the parents. Parents should never touch their cell phones while driving because their children will follow their example. They also need to be aware of where their kids are and who they're with. Many teens who die in crashes are passengers of other teen drivers who were driving while distracted.
Yarbrough applauds parents who set rules before their children get licensed and then don't let their children break those rules.
Cell Phones Are A Big Part
Cell phone use is one of the biggest causes of distracted driving. That's partly due to social media. People want to take pictures and post them immediately, whether they're driving or not.
"The bad part is it’s not just kids doing it," Yarbrough said. "It’s not just teens doing it. You see adults doing it driving down the street and you’re like, 'Come on now, if it’s that important to you, pull over and do it.'"
Yarbrough said if someone uses their phone and causes a crash, it's considered manslaughter or worse. It's expensive, too. The first-time fine for using a cell phone while driving is $200. It goes up from there.
Know the Numbers
Every year, an average of 20,000 drivers in California are involved in crashes due to distracted driving. The United States Department of Transportation listed 2,841 deaths caused by distracted driving in 2018. Of those deaths, 605 were passengers, 400 were pedestrians, and 77 were bicyclists.
"If you see something and you recognize something, it takes .75 seconds to just see it and recognize it, another .75 seconds to react," Yarbrough said. "That’s already a second and a half, and you haven’t done anything yet. You’ve put your foot on the brake, and it’s almost a whole football field, if you’re traveling at 55 miles an hour, to come to a stop. So whatever stops in front of you at that kind of speed, you’re probably going to hit it."
Ending Distracted Driving
The CHP works hard on education and prevention wherever it can. This includes using a yearlong Adult Distracted Driving grant recently provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The grant money provides for both in-person and virtual training sessions on distracted driving. The CHP plans to conduct several distracted driving enforcement operations, too, and it's partnered with Impact Teen Drivers to offer distracted driving training to teens during the pandemic.
These most recent efforts are backed up by several safety manuals that the CHP ... -
As more people use marijuana in the COVID-era it's important to remember that legal pot still results in DUI if you drive high.
In 2018 it became legal to buy and sell cannabis in the State of California. But changes to the law brought up questions and concerns about safety, particularly about legal marijuana and DUIs. Driving under the influence of marijuana is as much an issue as an alcohol-related DUI because marijuana use can impair judgment, too.
"If you’re going to be taking part in using cannabis, do it responsibly," said Sergeant Oscar Chavez of the California Highway Patrol’s Impaired Driving Section. "Don't Drive."
Before Legalization: Prepping for Legal Marijuana and DUI Training
During 2017, police officers prepared for the legalization of marijuana with 52 hours of training. The training program, called Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement (ARIDE), taught police to detect people driving under the influence of cannabis. ARIDE includes a two-day course in recognizing the signs of sleep deprivation, drug use, and alcohol use.
Unlike alcohol, there's no breath test for marijuana use. But technologies are evolving, and could soon include mouth swab tests. However, when marijuana was first legalized, blood tests for finding cannabis in a driver's bloodstream were the best bet.
Chavez said that the training program brings in medical experts to teach police officers about all forms of impaired driving, from sleep deprivation to prescription drugs like Xanax and Vicodin.
Cannabis Use and Car Drivers: Many Variables can Complicate Matters
Alcohol enters the human system through drinking, but weed intake happens in a variety of ways. People can smoke it, eat it, and even rub it on their skin. Differing strains, THC levels, and even the individuality of the drivers can impact the information a police officer has to work with.
"With cannabis, we have to take into consideration the user," Chavez said. "Are they a long time user, short time user? We have to take into consideration how they ingest it. Is it edible? Are they using a sativa strain? Are they using an Indica strain? Sativa’s going to have some effects on a user, versus an Indica strain, or a hybrid strain, a combiniation of both."
What Happens Behind the Wheel: Legal Marijuana and DUI Arrests
Chavez said when a DUI suspect is pulled over, officers determine whether an arrest is necessary. If the driver is arrested, officers use a Drug Recognition Evaluator (DRE) to figure out what's causing the impairment. The DRE is a process that uses standard roadside impairment tests, as well as in-depth tests.
The in-depth tests check problems such as pupil size, pulse rate, and blood pressure. The DRE can help rule out alcohol use and zero in on the possibility of driving under the influence of pot or other drugs.
How Much Pot is Legal?
It's legal to purchase 28.5 grams of green, leafy marijuana. This purchase size is about the size of a filled sandwich bag.
Buyers have to be 21 or older to purchase marijuana. However, if they're caught with more than the legal amount, they're only given an infraction charge, rather than a misdemeanor or felony charge. Infractions only include fines and citations.
Chavez said the important thing to remember is that the laws and the DUI training for officers are there to keep people safe. Marijuana use is up to the user, but users shouldn't drive while under the influence.
"Just do it safely," Chavez said. "Don’t get behind the wheel."
More safety tips from the CHP --> Distracted Driving -
Move over, Detroit. Southern California is the automotive capital of the United States and the world. And among many other reasons, Southern California deserves this moniker because of its plethora of world-class automotive museums. They range from life-size Hot Wheels collections to Bugatti and Ferrari exhibits and much more.
*Please note! Since recording the podcast and originally writing this article. The Mullin Automotive Museum has closed its doors forever.
iDriveSoCal's (opinionated) contributor Clinton "The Professor" Quan created a list of his top five favorites. But there's more for sure. So you can listen to me and the Professor debate his Top 5. And or continue reading below for even more Southern California Automotive Museums.
Top Five Southern California Automotive Museums
The Marconi Automotive Museum - Tustin
1. Marconi Automotive Museum in Tustin: Non-Profit Benefiting Kids
The Marconi Automotive Museum is the only car museum in Orange County. It's open Monday through Friday, with some events on the weekends. Besides a yearly open house, this museum hosts fight nights and private events, and it donates profits to children's charities. The car collection includes several Ferraris, as well as other race cars.
The Automobile Driving Museum - El Segundo
2. Automobile Driving Museum in El Segundo: A Special Place For Generations
The Automobile Driving Museum is one of the most unique Southern California museums. It was first located in West Los Angeles. It later moved to the South Bay in El Segundo, near LAX, because it outgrew its former location.
This museum stands out because every Sunday, three different classic cars are brought out of the collection, and car enthusiasts can ride in them. The museum is located in a garage because all of the cars regularly take a turn for those weekend drives. There's a separate building where this museum hosts Hot Wheels weekend events, which includes real life-size versions of Mattel Hot Wheels cars.
The Petersen Automotive Museum - Los Angeles
3. Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles: One of the Largest Southern California Automotive Museums
The Petersen Automotive Museum showcases its collection of more than 300 cars in over 60,000 square feet of exhibit space in the heart of Los Angeles. It's one of the largest car museums in the United States. This museum is well known for its events and for its unique exhibits, such as the classic Japanese car collection or its low rider collection. The exhibits change often, so visitors never get bored. This museum is also developing programs to help attract children toward future jobs in the automotive industry.
The Nethercutt Collection - Sylmar
4. The Nethercutt Collection in Sylmar: Elegant Cars and More
The Nethercutt Collection is a hidden gem with more than 200 cars on display. This collection has won the Best of Show award at Pebble Beach more often than any other collection.
All of the cars showcased here are Concours d’Elegance caliber. This museum has two sets of buildings. One allows car fans to take self-guided tours, but the other building requires reservations and guided tours, and it's only open a few days per week. Besides vintage cars, this museum also displays musical instruments and furniture.
Mullin Automotive Museum - Oxnard
5. *now closed* Mullin Automotive Museum in Oxnard: The Professor's Favorite *now closed*
Sadly the Mullin Automotive Museum has closed its doors forever. It was located in Ventura County. Featuring all French cars in its collection.
The former museum's location previously housed The Vintage Museum. And that was founded by Los Angeles Times publisher Otis Chandler.
Honorable Mentions
Because you cannot leave out a few other Southern California Automotive Museums here's the list continued. Each with its own niche.
San Diego Automotive Museum - San Diego, California
Lions Automobilia Museum - Ranch Dominguez -
The BMW Performance Center in Thermal, California is a driver's paradise.Because the driving school in Riverside County basically lets you go nuts in real fast, real performance vehicles. Plus you can take your skills (or lack of) off-road too.So when the offer to experience the track arrived the answer was simple; when should we arrive? :0)-->Continue reading below or click play to listen.
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2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport Reveal
The first look I got at the 2020 VW Atlas Cross Sport was at the LA Auto Show. While SoCal Volkswagen dealers will have it in the Spring of 2020.
And at first glance, the new edition to VW's crossover SUV lineup looks much like it's bigger sibling, the Atlas with 3-rows of seating.
But once you give it a little more attention the enhanced sportiness of the aptly named Cross Sport is definitely appreciated. And Cross Sport will seat up to 5.
Personally, my mind drew a parallel the sibling Volkswagens (Atlas and Cross Sport) and another set of siblings. That's the luxury and way-way more expensive Land Rovers (Range Rover Sport and Velar).
And my friend Randy Halcomb at Ontario Volkswagen says that's significant. Because "it highlights Volkswagen's innate ability to pack ridiculous value (and prestige) into its affordable-to-everyone products."
-->Continue reading or click play below to listen.<--
Volkswagen @ 2019 LA Auto Show
Atlas Cross Sport in Volkswagen's Crossover SUV Lineup
The Atlas Cross Sport is a two-row midsize crossover SUV that slots between the Atlas and Tiguan.
It's worth noting that Volkswagen just recently introduced the Atlas. Additionally, the affordable European carmaker recently delivered an entirely new generation of the Tiguan.
So the Atlas Cross Sport further proves Volkswagen's commitment to America's seemingly insatiable demand for crossover SUV vehicles.
Trim Configurations & Prices
Volkswagen will have eight trim level options once at full production. With all but three of those are planned for the initial rollout.
2020 VW Atlas Cross Sport Trims & MSRPs:
S $30,545
SE $33,945
w/ Technology $35,945
w/ Technology R-Line $37,345*
SEL $39,545
R-Line $41,245*
Premium $46,295
Premium R-Line $47,995*
*Later availability
And please note that the above prices are manufacturer's starting retail prices. Plus, how you equip your vehicle will impact the price.
Regardless, go see my friends at Ontario Volkswagen for the best buying experience - including the best price.
Engines and Transmissions
There will be two different engines for the 2020 Cross Sport. And those will be a turbocharged four-cylinder and a V6.
So the turbo 4-cylinder will put out 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. While the V6 takes it up to 276 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque.
Both engines will come with an eight-speed automatic transmission. And when you go with the V6 you'll have a towing capacity of 5,000lbs.
Plus you'll have the option of 4MOTION, which is Volkswagen's sure-footed all-wheel-drive system.
What Does The 2020 VW Atlas Cross Sport Look Like?
While Cross Sport looks similar to Atlas it's bolder and sportier. Mostly due to the shortened and forward-angled c-pillar (rear pillar), it takes on a coupe-like appearance.
Cross Sport 3-bar grill.
And, at least for 2020, here's the trick to tell the difference between Atlas and Cross Sport from the front. Cross Sport has three chrome bars running across the length of the grill. And Atlas has only 2.
2019 VW Atlas 2-bar grill
Additionally, available 21-inch aluminum-alloy wheels will further accentuate Cross Sports bold-look and aggressive stance.
Inside Atlas Cross Sport
Volkswagen hasn't released all dimensions of Cross Sport as of yet. But it's stating that the interior is upgraded from Atlas with a redesigned steering wheel.
And, like the Atlas, VW is stating there will be able legroom for riders in the backseat. Additionally, the enormous panoramic moonroof that Volkswagen puts in some of its vehicles will be available with Cross Sport.
Cargo Space
Plus with the backseats folded down, you'll have lots of cargo space. Because that is a measurement that Volkswagen is committing to stating that there will be 77.8 cubic inches available.
Infotainment, Connectivity, -
Volkswagen Off-Road
Volkswagen off-road is a phrase we haven't heard much of for years. Not since the Meyers Manx dune buggies were created from Beetles has VW really been associated with off-roading.
But that's changing thanks to Americans' love affair with crossover SUVs. Because of that Volkswagen has recently spruced up and added to its crossover SUV lineup.
So, 2020 brings three Volkswagen off-road / crossover SUV options.
There's the compact Tiguan which is in its second generation. It has an optional 3rd row of seating. But it's mainly for smaller humans. :0)
Plus, the Atlas Cross Sport which is a 5-seat midsize new entry to the lineup. It will soon be available at Southern California Volkswagen Dealers.
And the Volkswagen Atlas, which arguably bumps up to full-size status with the entry of the Atlas Cross Sport. Because it's a 3-row 7-plus seater that VW just added to its lineup in 2018.
Now, are all of these Volkswagen's off-road-ready? While not in a dedicated off-highway vehicle sense (OHV), it really depends on your degree of off-road-mindedness.
And following Volkswagen's off-road trend, my friends at Ontario VW recently danced-up this Atlas.
-->Continue reading or click play below to listen.<--
Off-Road-Ready - VW Atlas
Volkswagen Off-Road - Customized Atlas
So, Ontario VW customized this Volkswagen Atlas for off-road use. And they did so both on the interior and exterior. I'll walk you through those details but first wanted to share the above wide-shot.
First, because it shows off the exterior customization nicely. But also because I was able to get a cool shot with a big jet landing at Ontario Airport in the background. :0)
Sparco Terra Wheels
Since the wheels are where the rubber hits the road - figuratively and literally - we'll start there.
Sparco 10-spoke performance wheels
This 2019 VW off-road-ready Atlas was upgraded with Sparco 10-spoke performance wheels and Continental off-road-ready tires.
And what I loved about test driving this VW is that it was still quiet while cruising at 65 mph. In fact, the loudest sound I heard was from the boxes on the Thule roof rack.
So the exterior off-road accessories, including the off-road tires, didn't create a bunch of road noise at highway speeds. That's a big plus when it comes to Volkswagen off-roading.
VW Off-Road Roof Rack by Thule
And what's arguably the perfect off-road roof rack, Ontario VW added Thule's to this Atlas.
Thule Roof Rack
And that's complete with Thule cargo basket and netting. As you can see the fit is perfect. Plus taking this VW off-road with the basket and netting probably safer than a roof box.
Because a mounted box could catch a tree branch and cause lots of damage. While clipping that same tree branch would just mean you have the gear to get back on the roof!
Off-Road Hood Deflector
Another helpful off-road addition to this Atlas is the hood deflector.
Bug and small debris protection
Not only will a good hood deflector help protect from bugs but also small debris as well. Yes, of course, they can look great too.
Contoured Volkswagen off-road hood deflector
But do hood deflectors work overall? Well, as someone who tends to go through windshields like tanks of gas I can say this.
Nothing is failsafe and anything that lends a hand in protecting the vehicle is worth it. Especially if you're heading off-road!
Sidestep Convenience & Off-Road Protection
Perhaps you're tall enough to not require sidesteps/running boards like the ones on this off-road-ready Volkswagen Atlas.
Sidesteps aka running boards
However, even if you step over them to get into the vehicle they can still serve a great purpose. And that's to keep debris from flying up and scratching the sides of your vehicle.
Again, unless you're dedicating you're Volkwagen for off-road use as a true OHV, you might as well keep it presentable when on-road. -
Volkswagen Car-Net is a mobile application that connects VW owners with their cars. And most new 2020 models are getting connected for free.Car-Net offers a number of connected-car services. And, these services are exclusive to VW owners. Plus it all happens through your smart phone.Historically these services have required a subscription. But for 2020, Volkswagen is adding 5-years of free service with almost all new VW's.-->Continue reading or click play below to listen.
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Combine the open road and exquisite classic cars
with a trip to the Motte Historical Museum in scenic Menifee, CA.
The Motte Historical Car Museum is off the beaten path. But when you go you'll surely agree it's well worth the trip.
Menifee in Southwestern Riverside County plays host to the cozy museum with a collection of very cool classic cars. And they're displayed in a building that, while fully restored as well, helps turn back the hands of time just like the vehicles it houses.
Who else but our own Professor, Clinton Quan, made the recent trip and shares the complete report in this iDriveSoCal Podcast. Click play below and take a look at some of the classic beauties he spotted during his trip.
***Transcription***
Recorded in Los Angeles, CA
The Motte Historical Car Museum - Menifee's Hidden Automotive Gem
Clinton "The Professor" Quan: They're like, "Wow, I didn't realize there are so many car shows and I didn't realize that there were so many car museums."
Tom: This is the Motte Historical Museum, out in Menifee, California
Clinton Quan: There's definitely cars from the 1920s,
Tom: Made me think Great Gatsby.
Professor: Yes.
Tom: Like, that time period, right?
Tom: Welcome to iDriveSoCal, the podcast. All about mobility, from the automotive capital of the United States, Southern California. Tom Smith here with the good Professor, Mr. Clinton Quan. Say hello, Clinton.
"Made me think Great Gatsby."
Professor: Hi, Tom.
Tom: Hello. This podcast, we're talking about another automotive museum, one that the good Professor kind of pulled out of his bag of tricks…
I don't know. We've almost come to a year of doing the iDriveSoCal podcast and you're still surprising me with some of these little pocket events in museums and whatnot that you find.
So, keep that up. Let's see how long you can keep that up until I'm like, "Oh, this one again?"
Professor: I'll try. But I think a lot of people are really surprised at how many car museums and automotive events in Southern California.
Tom: There's so much.
1931 Cadillac
Professor: Yeah.
Tom: There's so much.
Professor: Because a lot of my friends, they're like, "Wow, I didn't realize there are so many car shows and I didn't realize that there were so many car museums."
Tom: Yeah, all you got to do it look and you can keep yourself busy year-round.
Professor: Yes.
Tom: And hey, partially that's what iDriveSoCal's gonna help. We're gonna be a... Is the right word "repository?"
Professor: You could say that.
Southwestern Riverside County
Tom: I'm making myself laugh because I'm thinking about other... And whatever. So as we have been, your go-to place. iDriveSoCal.com.
Professor: Resource.
Tom: Yeah, your resource. Thank you. But not only automotive but also the future of mobility.
And a lot of the future of mobility is... Well, we'll see what it's gonna be, but it's an exciting time, right?
1924 Electric Ford Model T
Professor: Yes.
Tom: But for always and all time, there's going to be a large segment of the population that happens to be in love with cars.
Cars that are coming out of manufacturers right now, rolling off the assembly lines right now, and for some time to come.
For a long time to come, and certainly, the history.
Professor: Yes.
Tom: And this is the Motte Historical Museum, out in Menifee, California, which I guess that's considered Inland Empire?
Professor: I believe that is considered the Inland Empire. It's a little east of the city of Perris, which is spelled P-E-R-R-I-S.
Not to be confused with what everyone assumes.
"It's a little east of the city of Perris... it's off the 215."
Tom: Of course, I've buzzed by there and I know that I've buzzed by Perris, as well as Menifee, and I don't know what else comes to mind for Menifee, but I know I've been through both.
Professor: Yeah, it's off the 215.
Tom: Okay. So, -
Volkswagen Drive Bigger
You've seen the Volkswagen Drive Bigger commercials. And perhaps you've even thought - ah, cool concept.
But check this out. Volkswagen of America is donating money to public schools. And YOU can make sure your kid's class gets some! No kidding, no strings attached and no games!
"The average public school teacher across the country dips into their own personal pocket to the tune of $450 annually to fund supplies for various school projects. That's crazy!"
In fact, my friend Randy Halcomb from Ontario VW filled me in on something even cooler. Your kid's teacher can go online to set-up the funding request and then you can go fund it for free!
Hear all the details in my podcast interview with Randy or continue reading below. Either way, go to Ontario Volkswagen ASAP to get the money where you want it to go!
How To Put Volkswagen's Drive Bigger $$$ In Your Kid's Classroom!
Tom: Welcome to iDriveSoCal, the podcast all about mobility from the automotive capital of the United States, Southern California. Tom Smith here, and I'm at Ontario Volkswagen today with my good friend Randy Halcomb.
We're talking about the Volkswagen Drive Bigger Event, which ties into the Volkswagen commercial that you probably saw. I want to give Randy a chance to just say hello real quick.
For VW Drive Bigger Teachers Funding Request go to DonorsChoose.org
This topic has me fired up a little bit because it's all about our schools, our public schools, and Volkswagen's diving in to fund our public schools. But say hello real quick Randy, and then I'm going to rattle off some stuff here.
Randy: Tom, always a pleasure to be here.
VW Drive Bigger Event Aims to Help Public School Teachers
Tom: Thank you. The Drive Bigger Event is Volkswagen's way of really diving in to help our public schools. I don't know if you're like me, but I know teachers of public schools.
I've always heard that obviously, they're always working on contracts, they're always trying to get paid themselves. But what's outrageous, and this - a statistic. This is outrageous.
At Ontario Volkswagen Donating To Your Kid's Classroom is FREE!
The average public school teacher across the country dips into their own personal pocket to the tune of $450 annually to fund supplies for various school projects. That's crazy!
Randy: I think that number is probably low.
Tom: I think it's low too. That's an average. That's what we know. Right? That's what's reported. Certainly, the reporting is probably inaccurate.
The Drive Bigger Event is technically Volkswagen of America is partnering up with their local dealers, Ontario Volkswagen, and providing funds for our public schools.
DonorsChoose Partnership with Volkswagen Drive Bigger
They're doing it in such a way that my friends that are teachers, your friends that are teachers, Randy's friends that are teachers, can tell their friends to go into Ontario Volkswagen and help direct where that money goes.
Randy: That is correct, Tom. It's pretty neat, and I think one of the things that Volkswagen's trying to do here is really to give back to the community doing more than just selling vehicles, and helping out, and making a difference in our communities, and on our planet.
Tom: But this is a partnership with an organization called DonorsChoose.
For VW Drive Bigger Public School Donations:
Go to Ontario Volkswagen.
Request a VW Drive Bigger Donation Card.
Select what school you want to receive the donation you're directing.
Randy: Yes, they're the education part of this that ties the donations going to the education teachers' projects.
It allows any teachers to upload their project, or what they need funding for, versus it coming out of their own pocket. People can go on there and donate to specific classes.
In this particular case, you're able to come down, we supply you with a donor's card, -
If you're fascinated by history, the Greatest Generation, World War II, and aviation, there's a good chance you’re already aware of the Lyon Air Museum - Greatest Generation Tribute. If you don't know or haven't yet visited the Lyon Air Museum, add it to your to-do list immediately.
Nestled away in a Santa Ana industrial park, directly on the tarmac of John Wayne Airport, the Lyon Air Museum features airworthy craft documenting many facets of World War II. Not only an aircraft at the museum, but Lyon also showcases various ground vehicles as well - including a parade vehicle that Adolf Hitler rode in.
Perhaps the most notable aspect of the Lyon Air Museum is that members of the Greatest Generation themselves - World War II veterans - volunteer as docents, bringing this truly incredible venue to life nearly every day.
Click play to listen below as Mark Foster, Lyon Air Museum CEO, shares more fascinating details in this iDSC podcast. And be sure to check out the amazing photo gallery too.
***Transcript***
Recorded July 31, 2018, in Santa Ana, CA
Mark: We're the Greatest Generation in an aviation museum, so we focus primarily on World War II veterans and aviation. We've got famous airplanes, the rare flyable World War II type airplanes. We've got the military vehicles, motorcycles... we even have a very historical car that was originally owned by the evil dictator, Adolph Hitler.
Introduction to the Lyon Air Museum
Tom: Welcome to iDriveSoCal, the podcast all about mobility, from the automotive capital of the United States, Southern California. Tom Smith here, and I am in ... Where are we technically? Costa Mesa, right?
Mark: We're Santa Ana, which is really Newport Beach, Irvine, Costa Mesa. It's all kind of around the corner, and it's at John Wayne Airport. That's the thing, we're not near John Wayne, we're at John Wayne Airport.
Tom: That is Mark Foster, who is the, what's your exact title?
Mark: Whatever you want to call me, but President, CEO.
Tom: Okay. President, CEO of the Lyon Air Museum.
Mark: Correct.
Tom: Right down here, literally, I'm looking at Alaska Airlines getting ready, it's taxiing down the runway right now. Mark, thank you very much for having me and the iDriveSoCal podcast. Again, all about mobility, from the automotive capital of the United States. A big piece of mobility is air travel.
The Lyon Air Museum.
Tom: You have a couple of things going on in the museum currently, but I recently learned about you guys. I guess you've been around since '09, and I recently learned about you guys on KTLA. Saw a quick piece and said, "Hey, I really want to go down there and have a chat," because you guys do some really, really cool stuff down here.
So, with that strange, kind of totally non-traditional introduction, Mark Foster of the Lyon's Air Museum, literally right on John Wayne Airport watching planes taxi as we do this interview. Thank you for joining me.
Mark: Oh, it's great to have you. Thanks, Tom.
Aviation Museum Dedicated to The Greatest Generation
Tom: So, high-level. What do you guys do here?
"We're the Greatest Generation in aviation museum."
Mark: Well, we're an aviation museum, and we're the Greatest Generation in an aviation museum, so we focus primarily on World War II veterans and aviation.
Tom: Okay. For those that don't, and I think there's a whole lot of people that aren't aware of the opportunity to come and check out what you guys have here, but your museum, again, you're right on the John Wayne Airport tarmac, you can come and see what?
Lyon Air Museum shares John Wayne Airport tarmac.
"The airplanes that are in the hangar here, all of them are airworthy."
Mark: Yeah. Well, we've got the World War II airplanes. We really start with pre-World War II aviation history. We've got pre-World War II, like a DC-3 American Airlines type aircraft that's kind of a late '30s design, and then we go all the way up through aircraft that wou... -
Air Force One draws attention everywhere it goes, even the retired version at The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley.
And nearly a half-million visitors a year tour the world's most iconic aircraft. Well, one of them anyway.
Continue reading below or listen to the podcast during my private tour of Air Force One!
***Transcript***
Recorded February 12, 2018
John: It technically flew seven different presidents. President Reagan put the most mileage on it.
I don't know what the exact number of that mileage is, but he definitely flew a great deal on this plane much more so than any other president. This was the aircraft that took him to Germany for the famous "tear down this wall" speech.
Anything that was classified or I guess you'd call "secret" that was all removed prior to our obtaining the aircraft. There are no escape pods. Additionally, there are no hidden guns or bombs or anything else that can be released from the aircraft, so there's nothing like that and a lot of that are the fantasies in Hollywood that they portray in movies.
The Home of Air Force One: The Ronald Reagan Library
Tom Smith: Welcome to iDriveSoCal, the podcast all about mobility from the automotive capital of these fine United States - Southern California. I'm Tom Smith, and in honor of President's Day, we are sitting underneath Air Force One at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library.
John: Correct.
Tom: Okay. And that is John Lehne who's the building facilities manager here for the Ronald Reagan Foundation, which runs the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library.
John: Correct. We are part of the library... the foundation actually supports the library. It is actually run by the government, National Archives Administration. The Air Force One pavilion, which we are sitting in right now with the Air Force One plane, is operated by the foundation. So this is a little unique part of the library.
Tom: So there you have it for the specifics. But what the exciting part is, literally I'm looking up at the belly of Air Force One and it's a pretty cool thing. We got some really neat pictures. John was nice enough to walk me through the plane, little private tour, got a couple of pictures. I wasn't able to sit in President Ronald Reagan's office chair, but I did sit at the conference table and that was pretty darn neat. So, John, thank you so much for that.
Tom Smith sits at Conference table aboard Air Force One.
John: You're very welcome.
How Did Air Force One Get to The Regan Library?
Air Force One at Ronald Reagan Presidential Library.
Tom: How did this plane get here? When you come to the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and the Air Force One pavilion, you can see a cool pictorial story that's told on how actually the building was kind of built around the plane.
“It was almost like the ultimate ship in a bottle type of construction.”
John: They put the superstructure, the building up. The plane had flown in a little prior to that, and they disassembled the plane, towed up here in pieces, except for the fuselage was one solid piece.
They did the superstructure of the building, pulled the plane and the pieces into the building and literally put the plane back together inside the building. Stripped the plane, repainted it, shrink-wrapped it, and then they finished the building around the plane.
When they were done with the building, they unwrapped the plane, cleaned it up, polished it up, then put it on display. It was almost like the ultimate ship in a bottle type of construction.
Tom: And the plane landed actually at San Bernardino International Airport.
John: It flew out from Andrews Air Force Base and landed here in California and then it was trucked from that airport, from the San Bernardino Airport to Simi Valley and ultimately here to the Reagan Library.
Tom: There's a cool picture where you see the fuselage of the plane next to the wings of the plane next to the dirt mounds that are go... -
Southern California is the home of the Import Tuner Scene; yet another reason the region is the car capital of the world!Sorry Detroit, Southern California is the automotive capital of the world for many reasons - and here's another one, SoCal is the home of the Import Tuner Scene.Personally, I didn't grow up in it. But iDriveSoCal's Professor, Clinton Quan, experienced all of it. From the first tuned Japanese imports to the seemingly neverending blockbuster movie franchise - The Fast and the Furious.Click play below to hear how the Import Tuner Scene developed and evolved here in Southern California and then took on the world.***Transcription***Recorded in Los Angeles, CAHome of the Import Tuner SceneClinton Quan: You're talking about the Japanese cars, which really made the import tuning scene. The Toyota Celica, the Toyota MR2, the Honda Prelude, even the Honda Accord Coupe, the Nissan 240SX, the Mitsubishi Eclipse, the Mazda MX6. I mean honestly, who would ever thought that there'd be seven Fast and the Furious movies?Tom Smith: Welcome to iDriveSoCal the podcast. All about mobility from the automotive capital of the United States, Southern California. Tom Smith here with our pal, the Professor, Mr. Clinton Quan. Say hello, Clinton.Clinton Quan: Hi, Tom.Why SoCal is the World's Car Capital - Home of the Import Tuner SceneTom Smith: Hey! Today's podcast is a continuation of our justification of that little saying that I throw out there at the beginning of every podcast, what makes Southern California the automotive capital of not only the United States but also the world. Today's podcast is another justification for that.The Professor was pointing out to me something that makes a lot of sense. It predates my living here in Southern California, but he experienced it, he lived it and that is the import tuning scene, right? Professor, why don't you kind of take it away because I have a bunch of kind of yes and to add, but as I mentioned, I wasn't here for it so I don't have that firsthand experience that you do."I mean honestly, who would ever thought that there'd be seven Fast and the Furious movies?"Clinton Quan: Yeah. It really started in the early to mid-90s and I remember growing up in... when I went to junior high and high school, if you look back, these were some of the most popular cars back then.The Fast and the Furious - Import Tuners & DriftersYou're talking about the Japanese cars, which really made the import tuning scene. Cars such as the Toyota Celica, the Toyota MR2, the Honda Prelude, even the Honda Accord Coupe, the Nissan 240SX and they had both a fastback and a coupe version of that. The Mitsubishi Eclipse, the Mazda MX6.Tom Smith: You're talking early 90s, the beginning.Clinton Quan: We're talking, yes.Tom Smith: Does that include the late 80s?Clinton Quan: Yeah, we could include the late 80s as well.Tom Smith: The cars at that time, the Japanese cars anyway, and I guess the other cars too, they were kind of getting smaller.Clinton Quan: Yes.Tom Smith: In the Midwest, I had a buddy that had had a Toyota MR2 and man was that fun to drive. A little go-cart. What about the... was it the Honda-Clinton Quan: Civic?Tom Smith: Yeah. The first Civic that... the first, the two-door Civics, remember they had the kind of bubbly blacktops or bubbly-Clinton Quan: Oh, you're talking about Civic hatchback because-Tom Smith: Yeah, yeah, yeah."Cars such as the Toyota Celica, the Toyota MR2, the Honda Prelude, even the Honda Accord Coupe, the Nissan 240SX and... The Mitsubishi Eclipse, the Mazda MX6."Clinton Quan: Well, speaking of that, I remember one of my classmates in high school, he had one of those... the Civic hatchbacks.Tom Smith: One of those Civics. Yeah. With that whole genre, right? The late 80s, early 90s, that kind of started the tuning scene here in Southern California and the tuning scene which sp...
-
Is it better to lease a Volkswagen or buy one?
If you're like me the answer has been 'buy!' Because no way was I going to pay for something that I didn't own. But then, slowly, I began to realize I never really own my cars.
And that's because I'm making payments forever. Plus by the time I'm done making payments I want something new anyway! And that doesn't even mention the cost of repairs once the vehicle is out of warranty. Another factor not being mentioned is the breakneck pace at which technology in our cars is progressing. (Why would we want anything more than a few years old?)
So, in this iDriveSoCal podcast, long-time Volkswagen expert Shant Bashian from Ontario VW joins me to sort out the options. Perhaps leasing a Volkswagen is the way to go for you. Or maybe buying.
The answer is different for everyone. But leasing has been increasingly popular over the past several years and for good reason. (I think, because, yes I've converted and now always lease my vehicles.)
***Transcription***
Recorded @ Ontario Volkswagen in Ontario, CA
Should You Buy Or Lease A Volkswagen?
Shant: The first question's gonna be, "What are you gonna do with the car? How many miles are you gonna put on it, and then where do you see yourself three years from?"
Then we'll determine if you should lease a Volkswagen or buy, and then we'll outline both the lease and the purchase. You could see the monthly payments on both scenarios and then you decide which one is more fit for you.
Tom: Welcome to iDriveSoCal, the podcast all about mobility from the automotive capital of the United States, Southern California. Tom Smith here, and I am excited to be at Ontario Volkswagen with my good pal, Shant Bashian, the general sales manager of Ontario Volkswagen.
"What are you gonna do with the car? How many miles are you gonna put on it, and then where do you see yourself three years from?"
The topic du jour today is one that's on a lot of people's mind when they go to buy a new car and that is just simply, "Do I buy or do I lease?" I've formed some personal opinions on it myself, but we are going to hear from the man here at Ontario Volkswagen.
Interested In Buying Certified Pre-Owned? VW's CPO warranty and program benefits explained here.
Mr. Bashian, thank you so much for joining me yet again.
VW Lease & Buy Factors To Consider
Shant: Thanks for having me Tom, and that question comes up all the time.
I find that most people know whether they want to buy or lease a Volkswagen because they understand it now. There's a lot of information out there.
For us, we have a different perspective regarding buying versus lease. We're in the business and we like to get the upgraded product rather quickly, but it really comes down to this.
Shant is always happy to layout the Volkswagen Lease versus Buy options.
What are you planning on doing with the vehicle? What's the purpose of the car? How many miles are you gonna drive it?
And, are you the type of person that likes to have something new rather quickly? Do you get bored of your vehicle?
Warranty Consideration For Leasing Or Buying
You have to look into that. Buying a car, it's more of a long-term commitment, really.
So, most people right now will purchase a vehicle and finance it for 60 to 72 months. Most vehicles will come with three year or four-year warranties backed by the manufacturer.
When it comes to Volkswagens, we have a six-year, 72,000-mile warranty right now-
Tom: Yeah, big one.
"When it comes to Volkswagens, we have a six-year, 72,000-mile warranty..."
Shant: ...that covers bumper to bumper and the powertrain.
So, when it comes to purchasing a Volkswagen throughout your monthly payment term, you are covered.
If anything should go wrong, you have nothing to worry about. There's no additional expense to look into, but again, that's if you're planning on keeping the car for a long time.
Now, -
History of Volkswagen Beetle
The fascinating history of the Volkswagen Beetle could take up far more than a 30-minute podcast. It's one of the most-built, best-selling, most-modified, loved and nicknamed cars on the planet.
What other vehicle has a childhood game named after it? I can't think of one... if you can please let me know!
All incredible things must come to an end. Yes, 2019 marks the end of the road for the Slugbug, the Bug, the original Volkswagen, the Type 1 - the Beetle. The last of the new Volkswagen Beetles are already hard to come by but if you can get your hands on one my bet is they are worth way more than whatever you pay for one in just a handful of years.
Click play below and check out the massive number of Beetle pics while you listen to the long storied history of the Beetle. Originals, restores, modifies, off-road, racers... even a see-through wrought iron Beetle for weddings!
And if you want to buy one of the last of the new Beetles just contact our friends at Ontario Volkswagen. This special podcast is brought to you - commercial free as always - by them!
***Transcription***
Recorded @ the LA Auto Show Press Days
The People's Car - Type 1 - History of Volkswagen's Beetle
Mark: Ferdinand Porsche was commissioned by the German government in the 30s to build a vehicle that would be usable by families on the new network of Autobahn.
1946 Volkswagen Beetle
The government actually took deposits for these cars and built very, very few of them before the war. The first actual Volkswagens themselves were made in 1946. Volkswagen stands for "people's car".
Originally it wasn't called the Beetle, it was the Type 1.
An Introduction - History of Volkswagen Beetle
Tom: Welcome to iDriveSoCal, the podcast all about mobility from the automotive capital of the United States, southern California. Tom Smith here and I am excited to be joined by Mark Gillies.
iDSC's Tom Smith & VW of Americas Mark Gillies
Am I getting the name right?
Mark: You are indeed, yes.
Tom: As you can hear by the accent, he's not from southern California. Mark is D.C. based now but from England. We are at Automobility LA, which is the press days of the LA Automotive Show. Mark is the Senior Manager of Product Communications for Volkswagen of America. I got that right as well, right?
1947 VW Beetle purchased new in England
Mark: You did, yes you did.
"The topic that we're talking about here is the history of the Volkswagen's Beetle, the iconic, the legendary, the special place in everybody's heart whether slug bug, Beetle bug, what have you."
Tom: Fantastic. The topic that we're talking about here is the history of the Volkswagen Beetle, the iconic, the legendary, the special place in everybody's heart whether slug bug, Beetle bug, what have you.
1947 VW Beetle
Mark, thanks for joining me. I know you got a very busy schedule. We're on the LA Auto Show floor and it's being set up right now, so we're literally in Volkswagen's inner sanctum thing of their booth and there's construction all around us getting ready for the LA Auto Show. It's an exciting place to be right now.
VW's Beetle Readies to Drive Into History
Mark: Yeah, it's cool. It's always fun when you're doing the setup. Although, you're a bit worried you're going to get run over by a forklift truck or trip over a piece of wood and break your neck.
VW Beetle line-up @ AutoMobility LA
Tom: Well thanks again for joining me. Let's talk about the history of the Volkswagen Beetle...
By the way, I like to bring you behind the scenes with all things media as it pertains to mobility as well automotive, and tomorrow for the press Volkswagen is putting on breakfast with the Beetle.
VW Beetle line-up @ 2018 LA Auto Show Press Days
Is that something that you're coordinating Mark, by chance, or you're going to be participating in I'm sure?
Breakfast with The Beetle
Mark: I've been involved in a bit of it. -
The ArtCenter College of Design, right here in SoCal, is one of the top schools for transportation and automotive designers around the world. So it's logical that the school host an annual exhibition showcasing the works of it's best and brightest.
From concepts to classics. Exotics to muscle. This year's ArtCenter Car Classic provided something for everyone. And rightfully so, as the theme of this year's car show highlighted the school's 70-years of contributions to the automotive industry.
This is a favorite of iDriveSoCal's Professor, Clinton Quan, and he, of course, was in attendance and joined me for this iDSC podcast. Click play below and scroll down to enjoy the pics of these awe-inspiring works of art!
***Transcription***
Recorded October 30, 2018, in Los Angeles, CA
70-Years of Automotive Influence
Clinton Quan: Some of the most prominent automotive designers in the world...
What was great about this car show because it was celebrating 70-years of the colleges Transportation Design Program, you got to see a little bit of everything. There were American cars there, European automobiles, Japanese cars, even Hyundai, that's a Korean car.
Tom Smith: Welcome to iDriveSoCal, the podcast all about mobility from the automotive capital of the United States, Southern California. Tom Smith here with the good professor Mr. Clinton Quan, say "Hello" Clinton.
Clinton Quan: Hi Tom.
Tom Smith: Hello my friend. We are podcasting this evening at an undisclosed location in downtown Los Angeles California. We're covering the ArtCenter College of Design their annual shindig that the good professor goes to each year. Did we cover this last year? No, we didn't cover this last year.
Clinton Quan: No we did not.
Tom Smith: But we talked about the College ArtCenter of Design in one of our podcasts that we did, yeah on why Southern California is the not only the automotive capital of the United States... But also the automotive capital of the world; because of all of these reasons. One of these reasons being that we have the College ArtCenter of Design, am I saying that right?
Clinton Quan: ArtCenter College of Design
"Some of the most prominent automotive designers in the world..."
Tom Smith: ArtCenter College of Design here in Southern California which has put out a number of names that we know of but...
Clinton Quan: Some of the most prominent automotive designers in the world.
Tom Smith: And for those of you listen to the podcast myself included, Chip Foose right is one of the names?
Clinton Quan: Well I don't know if he graduated from ArtCenter.
Tom Smith: Oh really?
You Know the Vehicle Designs
Clinton Quan: I don't know right off the top of my head. He's very well known.
Tom Smith: Was Fisker from there?
Clinton Quan: Yes he was at the event.
Tom Smith: No, no, but did he graduate from the school?
Clinton Quan: I believe so I don't know why he would be there.
Tom Smith: What I'm getting to is there's a lot of designers that have graduated from this school and we might not know the name of the designers.
But, we definitely know the names of their cars that they've designed. The names of the manufacturers they've designed those cars for. And, we've seen their cars as the entire world has seen their cars driving around roads, again all over the world.
Clinton Quan: I mean if he didn't graduate I would assume he has some relationship to the school.
Tom Smith: And it just so happens that Henrik Fisker and I don't know if it's Henrik or [pronunciation] Henrik, how they pronounce it.
Clinton Quan: That's a good question, I don't know.
Tom Smith: But nevertheless, the Fisker Karma was, well there's a whole history about that and they had a Fisker Karma there. I digress. ArtCenter College of Design has an annual automotive show and you go every year.
Clinton Quan: Yeah, almost every year. -
Air-Cooled Volkswagen Club
Classic Air-Cooled Volkswagens are some of the most identifiable vehicles on the road - any road. Whether you happen to... be celebrating Oktoberfest in Germany, visiting another European country or find yourself anywhere in the world - especially right here in Southern California.
As part of Ontario Volkswagen's Second Annual Oktoberfest Car Show, two 'Best of Show' awards were given out... because you can't give just one. You have Air-Cooled and you have Water-Cooled - the division among V-Dub Lovers.
Even though it's a fun-loving division amongst Volkswagen fans the division is there nonetheless. There are even Volkswagen car clubs dedicated to one or the other. In this iDriveSoCal Podcast, I'm joined by the leader of one of the Air-Cooled Clubs, who also happened to take home some Best of Show hardware, from Ontario VW, himself.
***Transcription***
Recorded – October 28, 2018, in Ontario, CA
Air-Cooled Volkswagen Club @ Ontario VW's Oktoberfest 2018
Danny: I have a 1965 Volkswagen 13 Window Deluxe. Just going crazy on it trying to do as much as possible. Have as much fun as I can in that thing.
One of the first things when I got that bus, I said, "I can't have the school-bus-look-thing here. I got to... " Me and my son got together, we put our heads together, we did that.
Tom: Ontario Volkswagen Second Annual Oktoberfest. Were you here last year?
Danny: No, I wasn't. I just heard about it this year, and I said, "Oh man, we got to do this."
Tom: Hi, and I can hear you, smile. Welcome to iDriveSoCal the Podcast, all about mobility from the automotive capital of the United States, Southern California. Tom Smith here, and we are out at Ontario Volkswagen in the Los Angeles suburb of Ontario, California.
Outside the dealership, quite literally, during the Second Annual Ontario Volkswagen Oktoberfest. Joining me is one of the, not only participants of Oktoberfest Auto Show but also a leader of a car club that was out here in force. Danny, can you please pronounce your last name for me?
Danny: Aceves.
Tom: Aceves. Danny Aceves of the Old Skool Auto Club. Thank you for joining me, and also, Danny, congratulations on your win today.
Danny: Thank you very much.
Tom: By the way, I did not know that you were going to win, although I did select you guys, you and your colleague. What's his name?
Danny: Rafael.
Tom: Rafael. Because of your very nice vehicles, very well maintained. Literally, they're old school, right?
Danny: Right.
The Air-Cooled & Water-Cooled Volkswagen Divide
Tom: iDriveSoCal is all about automotive news and the future of mobility and whatnot, and as you can hear some of the tuner Volkswagen's are pulling away. One of the things that I've realized diving into the world of Volkswagen, is that there is a divide in that air-cooled and water-cooled.
Danny: Yes.
Tom: I'm assuming that the Old Skool moniker of your car club is indicative of the air-cool.
Danny: Strictly air-cool.
Tom: Strictly air-cool. If I have a water-cool Volkswagen, you guys don't want to see me.
Danny: No. No, you're welcome. You're welcome.
Tom: I'm kidding. I'm kidding. Thank you. Tell me about the Old Skool Club.
Danny: Yeah, we were put together early 2015. I was in a club before, and I always wanted to do my own thing, so broke off, started my own club, got a couple friends together, and we slowly grew from there.
Tom: Okay. You literally ... I didn't realize, you're the founder of the club?
Danny: Yes.
Tom: Okay. How organized are you guys? Do you have dues, do you have weekly meetings, annual meetings, monthly meetings, anything like that? Or is it just we get together when we get together?
Danny: No. We have Monthly Cruise Nights, where we all get together and other clubs come out and join us, and we just hang out. That's monthly, and we don't have any dues. -
Water-Cooled Volkswagen Club
True love for Volkswagen and Southern California are two things that have always just gone together. And nobody truly 'gets' that like Ontario Volkswagen.
For the past two years, Ontario VW has altered its entire business operation for what would otherwise be a very busy day. And they've done that to morph their dealership in a venue for all types of Volkswagen fans to gather, show their cars, swap their car stories and share their passion for all things V-Dub.
And note the 'all-types' indicated above. If you're already in the 'VW-know' then you're aware of the difference between air-cooled and water-cooled. You see, there's a division among VW enthusiasts. A fun-loving division for sure but a partisan divide nonetheless. So much so that there are entire car clubs dedicated to one and the other.
In this iDriveSoCal Podcast, Ontario Volkswagen's 2nd Annual Oktober Fest Car Show, we talk to the leadership of one of the water-cooled Volkswagen clubs and learn more about their growth plans to share their brand of VW-Love.
***Transcription***
Recorded October 28, 2018, in Ontario, CA
Water-Cooled VW Club @ Ontario Volkswagen Oktoberfest
Mike: We try to do stuff our own, we try to have cars that are a little bit beyond the norm. They may never be perfect, they may never be done, but they are built by us in our garages. Jimmy's house always looks like Ontario Volkswagen.
Tom: Welcome to iDriveSoCal, the podcast all about mobility from the automotive capital of the United States, Southern California. I'm Tom Smith, and as you can probably hear, I'm not inside in a studio. We're actually at Ontario Volkswagen in the Los Angeles suburb of Ontario, California, and we're outside at the Oktoberfest, the 2nd annual Ontario Volkswagen Oktoberfest. We're podcasting outside.
Ontario Volkswagen is just off the 15 and also right by Ontario Airport so just as we were doing that open, a jet was flying overhead. But joining me is Mike Pitman from ... Where are you from?
Mike: Wildomar, California.
Tom: From Wildomar California. And Mike is part of not only the Oktoberfest Auto Show, here at Ontario Volkswagen, but one of the clubs that's involved in this show and your club name is Scrappy Dubs?
Mike: Yes sir.
Tom: Mike, thank you for joining me for the iDriveSoCal podcast.
Mike: Thank you for having me.
Tom: Tell me, what... The Scrappy Dubs, I know Jimmy Willhide who's the service manager here, service director, service advisor, whatever his exact title is here at Ontario Volkswagen, I know that he's part of the Scrappy Dubs Car Club, but tell me a little about it. How'd you guys get started, and what do you do?
Mike: You know-
Tom: Other than participating at Oktoberfest here at Ontario Volkswagen.
Friends w/ Shared Passion - Water-Cooled VW's
Mike: Right, right. We've known each other for a long time. We've been friends, practically kind of grown into a family.
Practically what we do, we're just a group of friends. We all have the same love, same enthusiasts for Volkswagen, for European cars, and we all got together and we help each other out.
And we have different strengths and when somebody needs help with a car we get down to the garage. There are late nights and get some good music going and we put together our crazy ideas and we make the stuff happen, so that's how it became.
And we try to stand out a little bit. We try to do stuff our own, we try to have cars that are a little bit beyond the norm and like I said, the cool thing about all of our cars is they may never be perfect. They may never be done. But, they are built by us in our garages, and like I said we have a great time with doing it.
I think that's what friendship's all about, growing up and growing older and constantly evolving, constantly changing stuff and doing stuff for the love of the cars that we love to drive.
Tom: Did you guys go to... - Visa fler
