Yearly Archives: 2018

Read more about the article End of the Year Car Panoply and 2019 Preview | #355

End of the Year Car Panoply and 2019 Preview | #355

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THE DRIVE with Alan Taylor | Episode #355

It’s the last show of the year, and time to get everything out of our system! First, we chat with Collins Bros Jeep President and Owner, Dennis Collins, about the new Jeep JLU and JKU Wrangler Rubicon, the Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye wide body, and the exciting list of cars he’s bringing to Barrett-Jackson in Scottsdale, Arizona. Changing lanes, automotive journalist, Steven Cole Smith, fills us in on the postseason slump in motorsports, the Nissan Maxima and Murano, and the all-new Ford Ranger; will the Ranger’s excessive price put another damper on the small and midsize truck category? Next, Kelley Blue Book, Autotrader, and Dealer.com Executive Publisher, Karl Brauer, catches us up on his Ford GT and tour of the Multimatic Facility where it is being built. Switching gears, Co-founder of Cartender and freelance automotive journalist, George Kennedy III, gives us his take on the Ford Ranger and Jeep Gladiator, and gets us pumped about Wide Open Baja, a touring service that gives us a taste of the Baja 500 and 1000 endurance races. Then, Blinker.com Founder and CEO, Rod Buscher, describes his revolutionary private party car trading app that also functions as a car identifier. Lastly, freelance automotive journalist, BJ Killeen, praises the new 2019 Toyota RAV4’s fresh redesign and coaxes some information about Alan’s new TV show, THE DRIVE with Alan Taylor, out of him. Don’t miss this year-end wrap up with your favorite car experts!

 

  • [00:00:00] MOPAR or No Car for Dennis Collins
  • [00:06:09] Eclectic Classics at Barrett-Jackson
  • [00:12:31] Nissan Maxima, Murano, and Ford Ranger
  • [00:19:52] Over Pricing to Kill Small Trucks Again?
  • [00:27:26] The Motorsports Off Season
  • [00:35:52] Touring the Ford GT Multimatic Facility
  • [00:42:13] Ford Ranger Returns as Midsize Truck
  • [00:48:12] Will the Jeep Gladiator Dominate 2019?
  • [00:54:44] Wide Open Baja
  • [01:01:57] Blinker.com, Buy or Sell Cars Privately
  • [01:11:17] The Toyota RAV4’s New Groove
  • [01:17:58] THE DRIVE with Alan Taylor on TV!

 

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Continue ReadingEnd of the Year Car Panoply and 2019 Preview | #355
Read more about the article The Shell Pioneering Performance Stage at SEMA 2018, Part 2 | #354

The Shell Pioneering Performance Stage at SEMA 2018, Part 2 | #354

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THE DRIVE with Alan Taylor | Episode #354

The action from the Shell Pioneering Performance Stage is back for our final episode of coverage from SEMA 2018. Among those affected by the string of hurricanes these past few years was legendary designer and CEO of Hennessey Performance, John Hennessey. That’s why he’s very appreciative of Nissan’s Paws One Titan XD, as well as his Shell and Pennzoil extended family that helped him through the crisis of Hurricane Harvey. We also learn more about the Hennessey Venom F5, which is set to break the 300 mph production car barrier. Next up, Brembo North America President and CEO, Dan Sandberg, shares how they’re using the power of artificial intelligence (A.I.) to design the toughest brakes in the industry. Then, Dan is joined by Automotive Journalists, Nik Miles, and Automotive/Motorcycle Industry Insider Mike Caudill, from Our Auto Expert to discuss the Nissan Paws One Titan XD and Nexen Tire’s ‘American Muscle for American Heroes’ initiative. Changing lanes, eBay Motors Parts and Accessories Senior Director, Jordan Hettinga, gives us some astounding stats about the presence of eBay motors, including a catalog of 80 million car parts. Shifting gears, Owner of the 1968 Ford Mustang Fastback (Bullitt – ‘559), Sean Kiernan, Historic Vehicle Association (HVA) President, Mark Gessler, and “Barn Find Hunter” Host, Tom Cotter, chronicle the unique history of Steve McQueen’s legendary film-car. Tom also issues a warning: rust never sleeps, so keep your vehicles out of the weather! Then, “Big Chris” Smith and Dennis Collins of Black Mountain Jeep, and Restore A Muscle Car and Operator, Dave Hall, trade wild car stories, pay their respects to industry icon Chip Foose, and talk about their favorite classics. Closing out the show, Koester Racing Driver, Larry Koester, Tjin Edition Roadshow Automotive Designer, Neil Tjin, and his son, Collin Tjin, talk about the therapeutic properties of getting behind the wheel and going for a drive. We also learn about Tjin family projects, including a Ford Mustang design-off between father and son, in conjunction with Vaughn Gittin, Jr. Don’t miss the final episode of SEMA 2018 coverage.

 

  • [00:00:00] The Shell Pennzoil Extended Family
  • [00:07:18] Making Memories and Fast Cars
  • [00:12:31] Brembo Uses the Power of A.I.
  • [00:19:52] Nissan Titan Paws One Rescue Rig
  • [00:26:04] American Muscle for American Heroes
  • [00:35:52] 80 Million Car Parts on eBay Motors
  • [00:42:12] Wild Ride of the Steve McQueen Bullitt
  • [00:49:52] Rust Never Sleeps, Keep Cars Under Wraps
  • [00:54:44] A Benevolent Soul, and Bull Run Stories
  • [01:02:04] Blazers, Ramchargers, and Coffee Walk
  • [01:10:44] Fast N’ Loud and Favorite Cars
  • [01:18:05] Therapy of Driving, and Young Blood

 

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Continue ReadingThe Shell Pioneering Performance Stage at SEMA 2018, Part 2 | #354
Read more about the article Rivian, Subaru, Jeep, Porsche and Others Go Big at LA Auto Show | #353

Rivian, Subaru, Jeep, Porsche and Others Go Big at LA Auto Show | #353

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THE DRIVE with Alan Taylor | Episode #353

While international auto shows start to wane, what is perhaps the most important exhibition in the largest automotive market in the world continues to stand strong. The Los Angeles Auto Show brought us many tasty morsels to digest as we wait for the ambitious unveilings to transform into reality. One of the juiciest bits was the unveiling of Rivian, and Automotive Journalist, Basem Wasef, says it was the big standout of the show for him. Also, Basem shares how world culture has given him a unique automotive perspective, and fills us in on his new book, “Speed Read Supercar”. Then, Director of Corporate Communications for Rivian, Michael McHale, reveals where the company came from and gives us the details on the R1T and R1S, their all-electric truck and SUV offerings which were shown off to the world for the first time at the LA Auto Show. Next up, Kelley Blue Book’s Karl Brauer remains skeptical as to whether or not anything will come of Rivian – he’s seen and heard it all before. What really impressed Karl was the new Gladiator, Jeep’s first truck! Shifting gears, President and CEO of Subaru North America, Tom Doll, is excited to discuss the new Crosstrek Hybrid, next generation Outback and Legacy, the 7 to 8-seater Ascent, and record month-to-month sales. Changing lanes, JoshCAR Hollywood Car Consultant, Josh Hancock, gives us his picks from the LA Auto Show, including the Toyota TJ concept, Lincoln Aviator, and Hyundai Palisade. Last up, Justice Brothers President and CEO, Ed Justice Jr., shares his thoughts on the new Porsche 911, and tells us what to expect from the new book, “Legacy of Justice / An American Family Story”, available on Amazon.com. Tune in for more from the LA Auto Show.

 

  • [00:00:00] LA Auto Show, Rivian, World Car Culture
  • [00:06:15] “Speed Read Supercar”
  • [00:12:30] Taking Electric Vehicles Off-Road
  • [00:19:51] Rivian R1T, The Truck of Tomorrow
  • [00:29:17] Vaporware or Reality?
  • [00:35:52] Jaded on New Electric Car Companies
  • [00:42:12] Jeep Gladiator Stealing the Auto Show
  • [00:48:37] Subaru Continues to Dominate
  • [00:54:43] Josh Hancock’s Picks from LA Auto Show
  • [01:02:04] Hyundai Palisade and 7-Passenger SUVs
  • [01:10:46] The New Porsche 911 – Is It Too Big?
  • [01:18:04] “Legacy of Justice”

 

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Continue ReadingRivian, Subaru, Jeep, Porsche and Others Go Big at LA Auto Show | #353
Read more about the article The Shell Pioneering Performance Stage at SEMA 2018, Part 1 | #352

The Shell Pioneering Performance Stage at SEMA 2018, Part 1 | #352

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THE DRIVE with Alan Taylor | Episode #352

We’re bringing you interviews with an all-star cast from the Shell Pioneering Performance Stage at SEMA 2018 in this action-packed episode of The DRIVE. Kicking things off, Meguiar’s President and Founder, Barry Meguiar, discusses his family’s passion for cars, and his new show, “Ignite Your Life”, which is a unique blend of faith and the automotive hobby. Changing lanes, “Chasing Classic Cars” Host, Wayne Carini, updates us on his show, upcoming project cars, and what he looks forward to when he comes to SEMA. Then, ClassicCars.com President and Founder, Roger Falcione, “Wheeler Dealers” Co-Host, Mike Brewer, and Celebrity Kustoms’ John D’Agostino join Wayne on stage and chat about their wives’ cars, ClassicCars.com, and how to properly value your vintage machine. Next up, Amanda Martin, Joe Martin, and Jayson “Shag” Arrington of “Iron Resurrection” fill us in on their favorite cars, and the Season 3 finale focused on a third generation Chevrolet Nova. Shifting gears, NHRA Top Fuel Champion, Antron Brown, shares how hard work and uncomfortable situations got him where he is today. Then, LOWRIDER Magazine’s Joe Ray gushes about lowrider culture and its influence on the hobby-at-large. Next, find out how Tommy Pike Customs Car Customizer, Tommy Pike, can find inspiration for his next build in everything from old-school Chicago architecture to the hanging fabric at the SEMA Show. Changing lanes, Historic Vehicle Association (HVA) President and Founder, Mark Gessler, fills us in on what makes a car historic and gives us the story behind Steve McQueen’s recently recovered Bullitt Mustang. Closing the show, Barrett-Jackson Chairman & CEO, Craig Jackson, forecasts an exciting year in 2019 for the world’s greatest collector car auction, with the conclusion of the Driven Hearts campaign and record-breaking auctions set up for the coming year and after. Don’t miss these amazing interviews!

 

  • [00:00:00] “Ignite Your Life” Fuses Faith and Cars
  • [00:07:37] Meguiar’s – A Family of Car Lovers
  • [00:12:31] Catchin’ Up with Wayne Carini
  • [00:19:52] How to Value Your Classic Car
  • [00:26:48] ClassicCars.com and Our Wives’ Cars
  • [00:35:53] Third Gen Nova on Iron Resurrection
  • [00:42:13] Show Up and be Ready to Succeed
  • [00:49:15] God, Family, and the Best Equipment
  • [00:54:44] Lowriders Strive to be Unique
  • [01:02:05] Tommy Pike Finds Inspiration Everywhere
  • [01:11:28] What Makes a Vehicle Historic?
  • [01:18:06] Barrett-Jackson Sets Records, Saves Lives

 

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Continue ReadingThe Shell Pioneering Performance Stage at SEMA 2018, Part 1 | #352
Read more about the article The Craftsman Garage at SEMA 2018 Part 2 | #351

The Craftsman Garage at SEMA 2018 Part 2 | #351

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THE DRIVE with Alan Taylor | Episode #351

We’re back with another week of coverage from the Craftsman Garage at SEMA 2018. First up, Wayne Carini from “Chasing Classic Cars” gives us his origin story and updates us on the shows status in the world of Discovery Network ratings. Next, Art Morrison Enterprises Owner, Art Morrison, and Operations Manager, Craig Morrison, discuss the art of balancing shop work and outdoor play. Also, catch some tips for a peaceful working relationship with family members. Before he was a 3000-HP tractor pull racer, Koester Racing’s Larry Koester met with an unfortunate accident while mowing his fields in a Ford farm tractor. After his tractor flipped over and pinned him resulting in the amputation of both of his legs, learn how his daughter’s unconditional love was the only thing that could dig him out of the darkest place in his life. Changing lanes, “Garage Rehab” Project Manager, Russell Holmes, shares how he got into the world of cars with a 1978 Chevrolet Camaro that he bought for $75, and why he knows he can keep pace with co-star, Richard Rawlings. Then, we chat with NASCAR Rookie of the Year, Hailie Deegan, and her father and X-Games Champion, Brian Deegan, about what it’s like to live in a family of wild and fast racers. A family of firsts, Hailie Deegan has become the first female to ever win a NASCAR race, while her little brother is the youngest person ever to perform a backflip on a dirt bike. Shifting gears, Nissan Motor Corporation Truck and SUV/Brand Communications Specialist, Kevin Raftery, fills us in on the new Nissan Titan XD, equipped with a Cummins diesel engine. Next, Collins Bros Jeep’s Dennis and Kelsey Collins discuss their Jeep Wrangler JL Hellcrate, barn finds, and the effect social media has had on the automotive industry. Dave Hall of Restore a Muscle Car and Jeff Catlin of Barrett-Jackson join in on our social media conversation; it can be a useful tool to build excitement for new car projects. Closing the show, Rat Runners Garage Owner, Aaron Hagar, describes his YouTube video series, “Design | Cut | Build”, and how living around Lake Tahoe has helped propel him as a car enthusiast. Don’t miss out on these exclusive interviews from the Craftsman Garage at SEMA 2018.

 

  • [00:00:00] Discovery’s #3, “Chasing Classic Cars”
  • [00:06:38] Origins of “Chasing Classic Cars”
  • [00:12:31] Balancing Work and Outdoor Fun
  • [00:19:51] Larry Koester’s Tractor Tragedy
  • [00:27:06] Inspiration from the Mouth of Babes
  • [00:35:51] Russell Holmes on a Mission to Give Back
  • [00:42:11] Hailie Deegan NASCAR Rookie of the Year
  • [00:46:03] Deegan Family Born to Race
  • [00:54:42] Nissan Titan XD Cummins Diesel
  • [01:02:03] Jeep Wrangler JL Hellcrate at SEMA
  • [01:08:40] Social Media’s Impact on Auto Hobby
  • [01:18:03] Aaron Hagar and Rat Runners Garage

 

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Continue ReadingThe Craftsman Garage at SEMA 2018 Part 2 | #351
Read more about the article The Craftsman Garage at SEMA 2018 Part 1 | #350

The Craftsman Garage at SEMA 2018 Part 1 | #350

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THE DRIVE with Alan Taylor | Episode #350

Alan heads up the Craftsman Garage at SEMA 2018 as the automotive industry once again gathers in Las Vegas, Nevada to show of their latest innovations and new products. Up first, “Wheeler Dealers” Host, Mike Brewer, shares his automotive enthusiasm and origin story on the Craftsman live stage. Next, star of “Fast N’ Loud”, Richard Rawlings, discusses his numerous lucrative business ventures, from tequila, energy drinks, and restaurants to his multiple television shows. Shifting gears, original inventor of the HAZMAT system, Nick Singer, tells us about his most recent project, Truck ‘N’ Cover, a series of modular truck bed systems that will revolutionize the way your family uses their pickup. Next up, Head of Passenger Car Brands – Dodge, SRT, Chrysler and FIAT, FCA – North America, Steve Beahm, chats about the new Dodge Redeye, a 797-HP everyman’s version of the Demon. Shifting gears, Mr. Norm’s GSS Supercar Vehicle Program Director, Larry Weiner, shares the rich history of Hurst Shifters from their inception in 1958 to their 60th anniversary this year. Then, ClassicCar.com President and Founder, Roger Falcione, describes how you can use his classic car trading site to sell your vehicle and spread its story; every car has a story on ClassicCars.com. Changing lanes, Host of “Long Lost Family” and “Overhaulin’”, Chris Jacobs, talks about his favorite cars and projects, including a 1985 Porsche 911, a 1968 Plymouth GTX, and his work on TLC’s tearjerker, “Long Lost Family”. This show is particularly close to Chris’ heart as he too was reunited with his birth mother at the age of 23. Also, Dennis Collins and Kelsey Collins of Collins Bros Jeep recount what it’s like to work with Richard Rawlings, and their recent win at Kuwait Concours d’Elegance with an Austin Healey named Goldie. Wrapping up the show, LINE-X President, Dennis Weese, and American television personality, Jesse James, discuss LINE-X’s display at SEMA, including their amazingly strong protective coating, and a pair of Dodge Rams separated by 25 years. Jesse also fills us in on his time spent as crew chief for his wife, Alexis DeJoria, and recent foray into the firearms industry. Don’t miss out on these exciting interviews from the Craftsman Garage live stage at SEMA 2018.

 

  • [00:00:00]“Deals on Wheels” to “Wheeler Dealers”
  • [00:08:19] Falling In Love With 200 Cars
  • [00:12:30] Richard Rawlings and His Many Ventures
  • [00:19:51]  Extend Capabilities with Truck ‘N’ Cover
  • [00:28:08] FCA’s Steve Beahm on Dodge Redeye
  • [00:35:51] This History of Hurst Shifters
  • [00:42:11] Your Car’s Story on ClassicCars.com
  • [00:45:14] Project Cars and “Long Lost Family”
  • [00:54:42] Search for Classic Cars Continues
  • [01:02:03] LINE-X and Jesse James’ New Show
  • [01:12:33] Jesse James the Crew Chief
  • [01:18:04] LINE-X 1993 Dodge Ram by Jesse James

 

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Continue ReadingThe Craftsman Garage at SEMA 2018 Part 1 | #350
Read more about the article News From the Industry, 2018 Hyundai Sonata, and More! | #349

News From the Industry, 2018 Hyundai Sonata, and More! | #349

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THE DRIVE with Alan Taylor | Episode #349

Our favorite automotive journalists and industry experts weigh in on a slew of news in this power-packed episode of the THE DRIVE with Alan Taylor. First up, Kelley Blue Book Executive Publisher, Karl Brauer, fills us in on Ford’s commitment to increasing production of the Ford GT, the workings and benefits of NACTOY, and the death of auto shows. Then, Reviver Auto CEO, Neville Boston, describes how they were able to bring the world’s first digital electronic license plate to market while navigating legal roadblocks. Shifting gears, automotive journalist Steven Cole Smith brings us the latest news about Formula 1 in the United States and the NASCAR Championship. Next, automotive journalist BJ Killeen discusses the upcoming J.D. Power Automotive Marketing Roundtable (AMR) and reviews the 2018 Hyundai Sonata. Changing gears, JoshCAR Hollywood Car Consultant, Josh Hancock, is puzzled by the new Chevrolet Silverado four cylinder engine option. Why does this even exist? Finally, Josh praises “A Star is Born” for its amazing car-casting, and chats about the Ford GT and Dodge Redeye. Listen in to keep up with the latest automotive news.

 

  • [00:00:00] More Ford GTs on the Streets
  • [00:05:47] Value of Winning NACTOY
  • [00:12:31] NACTOY and the Death of Auto Shows
  • [00:19:52] Rplate – First Digital License Plate
  • [00:29:34] F1 Has Trouble Gaining Traction in USA
  • [00:35:53] Countdown to 2018 Ford EcoBoost 400
  • [00:42:13] J.D. Power Auto Marketing Roundtable
  • [00:47:52] Artificial Intelligence and Marketing
  • [00:54:00] 2018 Hyundai Sonata
  • [01:02:05] Four Cylinder Chevrolet Silverado? Why?
  • [01:10:39] A Star is Born and Ford GT Production
  • [01:18:06] Dodge Redeye and ClassicCars.com

 

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Continue ReadingNews From the Industry, 2018 Hyundai Sonata, and More! | #349
Read more about the article Hellcrate Jeep Wrangler at SEMA, V8s, Kia Forte, and Burt Reynolds | #348

Hellcrate Jeep Wrangler at SEMA, V8s, Kia Forte, and Burt Reynolds | #348

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THE DRIVE with Alan Taylor | Episode #348

Sometimes the fact that an engine is powerful isn’t enough. You want to feel its strength and hear its roar! That’s why Alan loves a great V8 block. As the 2018 SEMA Show draws nearer, Owner of Collins Bros Jeep, Dennis Collins, shares how he’s upping the ante on 6.4L Hemi Jeep Wrangler JL builds with a 707 hp V8 Hellcat engine. We also hear about some amazing new finds that Dennis has uncovered with his ‘Classics Wanted Dead or Alive’ initiative. Next, Autotrader Executive Editor, Brian Moody, discusses some amazing V8 powered cars for under $30,000, and explains why buying certified pre-owned is usually a much better deal than buying new, thanks to value depreciation. Then, automotive journalist BJ Killeen plays devils advocate for V6 engines like the 3.5L Ford EcoBoost, and gives her review of the 2019 Kia Forte. Switching gears, we take time to remember the amazing life, work, and legacy of Burt Reynolds and the cars he owned, with Restore A Muscle Car Owner/Operator, Dave Hall. Lastly, we close out the show with an interview from two years ago with Burt Reynolds. Rest in peace, Burt, you are missed.

 

  • [00:00:00] Hellcrate Jeep JL at SEMA
  • [00:06:01] Wanted Dead or Alive Part 2
  • [00:12:30] Vehicle Value Depreciatio
  • [00:19:52] Nothing Beats the Growl of a V8
  • [00:29:43] Subaru Does Technology Right
  • [00:35:53] Buy Certified Pre-Owned Trucks!
  • [00:42:13] V8 Engines: Dinosaurs or Not?
  • [00:48:33] Volvo V60 – New Age of Station Wagons
  • [00:54:44] 2019 Kia Forte is an Amazing Deal
  • [01:02:05] Burt Reynolds’ Cars at Barrett-Jackson
  • [01:10:46] Remembering Burt Reynolds
  • [01:18:06] Our Last Words with Burt Reynolds

 

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Continue ReadingHellcrate Jeep Wrangler at SEMA, V8s, Kia Forte, and Burt Reynolds | #348