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Copyright © 2011 automopedia. Visit the original article at http://www.automopedia.org/2011/11/30/america%e2%80%99s-best-drive-thru-coffee-shops/.Coffee and other caffeinated drinks are super hip these days. You don’t always have to leave the driver’s seat to purchase a perfect Cup o’ Joe. Maybe it’s part of the American experience – having deliciously brewed coffee, or a top-notch espresso, delivered via Drive Thru window.

Even if you travel for a living, there is probably a superb drive-up cafe just a few minutes from your current location.

We took a tour of the best coffee shops with drive-thru access in five regions of the USA. After several jittery debates, Automopedia chose its Top 5:

East Coast / North East – THE PIGGERY

Location: 423 Franklin St. in Ithaca, NY

Previously known as “Buzz,” these coffee shop owners added a deli to an award winning breakfast joint, followed by its name to symbolize the fantastic “farm to table” bacon. FYI: Deli hours begin later than Piggery’s drive-thru cafe. However, there is no better locale in the North East to grab a hot cup of freshly brewed (local NY) coffee, along with bacon, egg & cheese on a bun.

Southern US – Poplar Perk’n

Location: 4610 Poplar Avenue in Memphis, TN

Offering up coffee, smoothies, and other blended drinks every day of the week, Popular Perk’n is Tennessee’s answer to the drive-up cafe. Located near a Memphis used car lot and The University of Memphis, this quaint shop is a favorite of college students and working class heroes alike. Popular’s owner Jimmy Whidden might even expand to include on-site baked goods.

Mid West – Mudslingers Drive Thru Coffee

Location: 5755 Maxtown Road in Westerville, OH

Mudslingers began as an idea based out of Minnesota (its official HQ) and has grown into franchise opportunities across the nation. Soon enough, there might be a Mudslingers drive-thru in your home town. Coffee is not the only option at ‘Slingers – there’s a wide array of pastries and bagels, soups, frozen/mixed drinks, and the knowledge that your order will be ready in moments. Skip the fast food line; Mudslingers is your healthier, non-corporate option.

South West – Raw Bean Coffee House & Drive Thru

Location: 611 SW Temple in Salt Lake City, UT

Raw Bean is known as one of SLC’s prime coffee locations. A full-service stop, their dining area gives customers free wifi and freshly brewed goodness in every cup. Raw’s drive-thru option brings those on the go a quick detour for “spot-on” iced coffee. We’ve also been informed that patrons should take advantage of free biscotti.

Pacific North West – Cowgirls Espresso

Location: 1132 South Albro Place in Seattle, WA

Yes, that woman is in a bikini, holding a large caffeinated drink. Try to remain calm and carry on. Cowgirls combines sex and steaming coffee in a business strategy sweeping down the Western US. Their Seattle location includes “Bikini Wednesdays” – which is the only time baristas wear even less than their normal work attire.

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Copyright © 2011 automopedia. Visit the original article at http://www.automopedia.org/2011/11/28/automopedia-laas-week-2/.Welcome back to the 2011 Los Angeles International Auto Show. As week two comes to a close, and we microwave Thanksgiving left overs, auto makers who graced the floors of LAAS are headed home. But we leave LA with a bang, Parkour style!

According to Wikipedia: Parkour (sometimes abbreviated PK) is a method of movement focused on moving around obstacles with speed and efficiency. Originally developed in France, the main purpose of the discipline is to teach participants how to move through their environment by vaulting, rolling, running, climbing and jumping.

It’s also a favorite hobby of Dwight, Andy, and Michael:



Smart 341 Parkour Concept


Sadly, Smart Parkour has nothing to do with the French martial art. It’s a concept designed by “Annie” – an investigative reporter who entered her idea for “Hollywood’s Hottest New Movie Car” and won top prize at LAAS.

Smart Parkour features several design elements that allow occupants to shoot photos from all angles, including the small car’s domed top, along with its ‘suction cap-enabled’ climbing ability.

“With the 341 Parkour, Smart hit the nail on the head: the design combines innovation and functionality with an exciting film plot,” according to judges.

This is Lincoln’s “New” Design: 2013 Lincoln MKS


Lincoln has continually stated they are going ‘all new’ for 2013, including a complete remake of their models. Well, sorry to say, the 2013 MKS looks pretty similar to previous models. Maybe this “new and improved” design will pop up in 2014.

Lincoln hopes to transform itself into a “great American luxury brand” – much like it was before it became the symbol of livery cab use. The auto maker is spending billion on development of seven new / refreshed models, the first of which should appear at January’s 2012 Detroit Auto Show in the form of a MKZ concept.

Back to MKS, which contains a 3.7-liter V6 producing 300 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque. There will also be a 3.5-liter EcoBoost version available, with 355 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque. We’re curious to see of that big ol’ grille remains in 2014.

Chevrolet, Topless: 2013 Chevy Camaro ZL1 Convertible


At long last, Chevy Camaro ZL1 Convertible makes an appearance, and will soon drop into your local Chevrolet dealer. 2013′s Camaro ZL1 houses a powerplant making 580 horsepower from its supercharged 6.2-liter LSA engine. Better put on a hat while blowing down sunny California freeways.

GM flip-flopped for over a year on whether or not to produce a convertible variant. Seems as if they gave in to fan requests, but will these loyal followers show up to dealerships?

2012 Jaguar XKR-S


Finally, there’s a new luxury coupe/convertible in town. Based off the popular Jaguar XKR, the supercharged 2012 XKR-S Convertible was live at 2011 LAAS.

XKR-S Convertible is more ‘dramatically styled’ than many other Jag models. With a 550 horsepower, 502 pound-feet of torque engine, XKR-S hits the 60 mph mark in an amazing 4.2 seconds. This makes it one of the fastest convertibles ever available from this car maker.

That’s all from LAAS 2011! Check back for more Auto Show updates @ Automopedia!

Source: Motor Authority

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Copyright © 2011 automopedia. Visit the original article at http://www.automopedia.org/2011/11/18/automopedia-laas-week-1/.Welcome to the 2011 Los Angeles International Auto Show.

As week one gets underway for the public (automotive press has mostly come and gone) there are a few models we can’t wait to show you. Some are production versions of concepts long teased online (we’re looking at you Subaru!) – while other vehicles rolling across the floors of LAAS were created simply for fun, and to gain that all important auto show “WOW” factor.

What better way to spend those pre-Thanksgiving days walking around a car show – Here’s a look at some of the more interesting LAAS 2011 reveals.

A Real Life Mario Kart


You can’t run an auto-related event in Southern California without West Coast Customs dropping by. The crew famous for Pimp My Ride, and making Xzibit a star, marked the release of Mario Kart 7 for Nintendo Wii by creating fully functional, real life models of Mario character karts.

Mario & Luigi’s vehicles from the game were present, and can be driven on both ground and water (if you follow the video game’s premise that is).

Ford at 2011 LAAS – 2013 Mustang GT500 & Escape


Ford made huge reveals at this year’s LAAS. First up, it’s the much anticipated 2013 Ford Mustang GT500 from Shelby. What’s so special about another GT variant? This model can reportedly hit 200 miles per hour, while remaining perfectly street legal. In our opinion, it’s also one of Shelby’s sexiest enhancements to date.



On the other end of the spectrum is 2013′s Ford Escape. Originally the auto maker’s prized crossover, this vehicle is now being geared towards soccer mom’s as the latest in lady-driver tech. We don’t understand this new gender-biased marketing strategy – especially since this gas or hybrid powered truck registers 237-hp from its 2.0-liter engine. Who says women have to drive wimpy cars, anyway?

2012 Motor Trend Car of the Year – Volkswagen Passat


Next up, it’s time for Motor Trend’s Car of the Year award. The honor was bestowed to a 2012 Volkswagen Passat. The VW was singled out for its affordability, as well as popularity. Passat had its best month (October 2011) as far as sales since 2005. With the successful release of a redesigned Jetta also taking place this Fall, seems like 2012 will be a great year for VW sedans.

American Luxury – Cadillac XTS


Cadillac is doing battle with foreign luxury auto makers. If they stick to models like the upcoming XTS sedan, they’ll have no problem kicking BMW in the bum. Headed to dealers in 2013, XTS reminds us of President Obama’s pumped-up Cadillac limo. The large trunk on this full-sized vehicle harkens back to Caddy’s of yesterday – the kind Robert De Niro hid bodies in.

Subaru’s Sports Car – The BRZ


Subaru has been teasing us with dark images of the BRZ sports car for months. Finally, at 2011 LAAS, we get to see a production-ready variant. Subaru’s horizontally-opposed “boxer” engine will power BRZ, with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder and a low center of gravity. Apparently, the more officially official Subaru BRZ will debut Nov. 30th at Tokyo’s International Auto Show. So, what exactly is the model we’re looking at above??

Land Rover DC100


We almost forgot: Land Rover still exists, and is making new cars. The long awaited Land Rover DC100 Sport is rumored to be the company’s replacement for Defender. However, other rumors suggest Land Rover Defender will stay with the foreign nameplate until 2015 – 2017. Guess only time, and sales figures, will tell.

Sources / Photos – MA | Jalopnik

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Copyright © 2011 automopedia. Visit the original article at http://www.automopedia.org/2011/11/11/why-rubber-might-be-the-greatest-american-horror-film/.The 2010 movie Rubber was actually written by a French film maker, and shot by a mostly French crew. But it might be the greatest American Horror movie of the past decade.

The film is part Horror, part Thriller, and (without a doubt) part Comedy. Taking place in a non-specific part of the California desert, its star (a used and road-weary tire) comes back to life after being left to rot.

“Rubber” quickly learns to walk (well, roll), and to love…and to kill. But who says tires don’t have feelings?



When Rubber finds a soul mate, it seems everyone is standing in the way – from local authorities to movie spectators, trying to figure out its next move. Rubber works through one victim after another, using mysterious telekinetic abilities to explode human heads and animal bodies alike.

Will this discarded wheel find satisfaction by chasing down one gorgeous French woman in a VW Cabrio? Or can the cops blow it to bits, stopping the murderous rampage? Watch on Netflix Instant to find out!



The best part about Rubber is its avaunt-garde approach to Horror movies. You are the audience, but there is also an audience featured in the film. Using binoculars supplied by “The Accountant,” they witness Rubber’s journey towards true love. Stars of the flick even pause to explain exactly what is going on. That is what makes it a great French film.

So, why do we think Rubber is the best American Horror movie of the last 10 years? It features all the great parts of an American classic: desert settings, police chases, lots of cars, vehicle and head explosions, a hot foreign chick, and just the right amount of hilarity.

Once “Rubber” gets rolling, it’ll be hard to stop watching.

Sources | Photos : Wiki & IMDB

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Copyright © 2011 automopedia. Visit the original article at http://www.automopedia.org/2011/10/12/the-best-least-expensive-cars-for-2012/.It’s the list you have all been waiting for – our run down of the top cheap cars for 2012. “Cheap” in this case doesn’t necessarily mean crappy. In fact, most auto makers are adding in some very desirable options when they promote a base level compact or economy class vehicle.

Oddly enough, there’s a huge return to manual transmissions with younger car buyers. Part of it may be cost, as well as better mileage per gallon, but stick shifts are undoubtedly back in style.

Have a look at our favorite picks for Least Expensive 2012 Cars.

2012 Nissan Versa


There are two top competitors as the best inexpensive vehicle for 2012. First is the Nissan Versa, which keeps its title of “Cheapest New Car” at ,990 for the second year in a row. With a 1.6 liter engine under its tiny Japanese hood, redesigned Versa sedans and hatchbacks have a great MPG rating of 26 city, 34 highway.

2012 Hyundai Accent


Tied with Nissan’s Versa, the upcoming Hyundai Accent GL is priced at ,985 – 9,995 depending on the dealership. This little Korean vehicle that could also houses a small powerplant, which produces 28 MPG in the city (two better than Versa) and a matching 34 MPG on the highway.

2012 Ford Fiesta


Fiesta is entering its sophomore year with spectacular sales and a combined MPG rating of almost 40. Youthful drivers are going for the manual transmission option, while adding on lots of tech extras such as navigation and surround sound speakers. Still, a base Ford Fiesta rings in at around ,000.

2012 Chevrolet Sonic


Another newbie for 2012, “Chevy” Sonic will replace the long running Chevrolet Aveo Sedan. Much like Aveo, this vehicle will remain simple yet exciting. With a starting price of ,965, buyers can add fun options: including remote start, heated seats and an in-dash navigation system. GM boasts their mighty little car receives 27 MPG city, 35 highway.

2012 Kia Soul & Kia Rio


Both coming in at a ,000 starting price range (Kia Rio – ,295, Soul – ,300), Kia vehicles appeal to a youthful crowd. Their stylish rides contain powerful engines, and look as cool as they are fun to drive. Rio receives a redesign for 2012, and ranges in the 28 city/34 highway MPG estimates. Soul still gets incredible mileage at 26 city/31 highway, even without hamsters behind the wheel.

Honorable Mention: Smart Fortwo


The reason we didn’t include Smart Fortwo in our above list is because Smartcars still fall into a niche market. Your average new car shopper probably won’t purchase a Fortwo right away, but they shouldn’t turn from it so soon. As ,490 MSRP, Smart’s two-seater is in direct competition with Fiat 500, and claims MPG ratings of 33 city, 41 highway.

Sources: carsdirect.com | Auto Trader

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Copyright © 2011 automopedia. Visit the original article at http://www.automopedia.org/2011/10/07/10-cars-that-can-occupywallstreet/.No matter what side of Occupy Wall Street you are on, we all need a car to get to the protest in. Unless you’re a resident of an Outer Borough, just take the subway. But some of us will want the smallest, greenest urban vehicle at a protest – so long as there’s enough room to fit witty cardboard signs in the trunk.

The rest of you are probably not fond of Americans utilizing their First Amendment Rights if their beliefs differ from yours. You want the largest, most gas-sucking Quad Cab your 1% Millions can afford.

We’re on top of you, with the Top 10 cars we feel protesters (both Liberal and Tea Baggers) around the country will take to an Occupy Wall Street event. And yes, these are happening not only across America, but in Canada too. Look out, big business.

- Small Cars -

Smart fortwo


One of the smallest cars on the market, a greener Smart ForTwo is available with their LightShine concept. Power comes from a three-cylinder CDI engine, producing 54 horsepower and 96 lb-ft of torque. With a top speed of 84 mph, the car accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 16.8 seconds.

Ford Fiesta


Fiesta is Ford’s little two and four door entry level vehicle. A more powerful, but still fuel efficient Fiesta ST is coming with a 1.6-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine, producing 177 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. Matted to a six-speed manual, Fiesta ST hits 60 mph in under 7 seconds, with top speed of 137 mph.

Toyota Yaris


Along with Prius hybrid, Toyota may have the majority vote for cars driven by protesters at OWS. The 2012 model will reportedly include 1.0-liter, 1.3-liter and 1.4-liter engines.

MAZDA2


When it was first introduced, MAZDA2 is rumored to get 70 MPG. The Japanese company’s official announcement states 2 receives “15 percent better gas mileage than the existing model.” Its fuel economy comes in at 28 mpg city, 35 highway. You’ll get to any protest without losing a drop of fuel in a Mazda.

Scion iQ


Even unions are stepping up to support Occupy Wall Street protesters. They could really appeal to the younger crowd by showing up in a 2012 Scion iQ. It is one of the lowest costing and most powerful cars in its class, starting at ,265. iQ produces 94 horsepower and is rated at 36 mpg city, 37 highway.

- Large Cars -

Hummer H2


The symbol of capitalism in America, at least on its roads. H2′s standard 6.2-liter V8 engine produces 393 horsepower, teamed up with an upgraded six-speed automatic transmission. H2 can pull a whooping 8,000 pound towing capacity up and down Wall St.

Cadillac Escalade


Escalade might seem like the two-ton smog producer we all fear, but new models coming from GM include a powerful hybrid engine. A Two Mode hybrid combines with 6.0-liter V8. Escalade stores energy captured by braking and coasting in its 300-volt battery pack, and is rated at 20 mpg city, 23 highway.

Ford F-150 Quad Cab


Again, unions are a big supporter of Occupy Wall St. Ford is big on unions, so why not show your support while still hauling the family into town with a Ford F-150. This midsized truck has enough space and towing capability make it around any construction site, while getting drivers through suburb or city alike.

GMC Sierra 3500


One of the most stolen vehicles in America. Need we say more? The rugged 3500 version of Seirra has one of the top towing capacities in its class, and is proudly made in America by General Motors. We bet a few Tea Partiers drive these puppies back on the farm.

Honda Ridgeline


5,000 pounds of towing capacity, 1,550 lbs of payload capacity. This 247 horsepower, 4 wheel drive Ridgeline is a top contender in the large truck field. When you need to pull a huge load but want to stick it to Corp. America, a Japanese pickup may be right for you.

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Copyright © 2011 automopedia. Visit the original article at http://www.automopedia.org/2011/09/16/french-invasion-at-the-2011-frankfurt-motor-show/.The French are an industrious people (when they’re not striking every other week).

Two top auto makers from the country of Eiffel and amazing wine, Peugeot and Renault, have brought various new concepts to the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show.

It looks like this time France is invading Germany! (Too soon?)

Peugeot HX1


This hybrid concept comes to us as a joint venture between the French car company and (get ready) shoe designer Pierre Hardy.

HX1 is powered by Peugeot’s HYbrid4 technology. It’s an all-wheel drive diesel-electric combination, with a 2.2 liter engine with total output of 295 bhp.

Peugeot 508 RXH Limited


Another diesel-electric hybrid from Peugeot, 508 RXH Limited Edition, will go into production, but only have a run of 300 vehicles.

The 508 RXH Limited will also feature an all-wheel drive powertrain, combining a 2.0 liter HDi diesel engine with electric motor for a total output of over 200 bhp and 332 lb-ft of torque.

Renault Frendzy Concept


And then there was Renault. The French-Asian team introduced their Frendzy Concept in Frankfurt.

The vehicle includes a 37-inch screen on the exterior rear door. Since the car is being catered towards business types, this monitor could be used to turn your ride into a mobile billboard.

Frendzy is also another one of Renault’s electric vehicles, with a 59 horsepower lithium-ion powered motor that produces 167 lb-ft of torque.

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Artist Dante Rubli of Bern, Switzerland, has some mighty lofty goals as a sculptor. And by lofty, we mean expensive. You’d expect to find something this lavish at a Los Angeles Ferrari dealer or private collector in Dubai. Instead, this special Ferrari 250 GTO turned up at the 2011 Concour d’Elegance in Pebble Beach, California.

But it’s not a full size Ferrari – instead “Dante” (as he likes to be called) created this classic Ferrari model out of 24-Karat Gold. This Ferrari 250 GTO is the third piece in the artist’s Iconic Sports Car series. Other models include an Aston-Martin DB5 and Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing.



The small sculpture was displayed at Pebble Beach alongside tributes to the real Ferrari 250 GTO, featuring several rare full sized, drivable variants of the model.

Source: World Car Fans

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Summer is fading as Fall approaches. Dealer lots have the smell of new rubber and chrome accents as 2012 models fill empty spots.

There are many who will vie for a Best In Class nod under separate vehicle categories. For us, there’s no question in our minds which is #1 in each. And of course, we will not hesitate letting you know our recommendations.

1. SUV – Cadillac Escalade


As one of the the most stolen vehicles in North America, the 2012 Cadillac Escalade will undoubtedly come with pretty high insurance rates. But if you’re on the lookout for a luxury family hauler that’ll make every athlete jealous, Escalade is still your best bet. Powered by General Motor’s Vortec 6.0-liter V8, both regular and Hybrid variants are capable of producing 332 horsepower and 367 lb-ft of torque. Price Range: ,850 – ,845

2. CUV – Mazda CX5


Mazda will spend the next several years perfecting their own hybrid technology, along with adding new vehicles to an already growing line-up. One of those cars is the Crossover CX5 (or CX-5, if you will). The 5-seater will be the first to implement Mazda’s ‘Kodo’ design – meaning ‘Soul of Motion.’ All CX models will be powered by the SKYACTIV range of fuel efficient motors. Mazda has soul, but can it be a soldier? Price Range: TBA

3. Heavy Pick-up – GMC Sierra


This full-sized GMC sees little in the way of redesigns, but with top rate towing and cargo capacity in its class, why change what works? A whopping four engines are available for the 2012 Sierra 1500 – a 4.3-liter V6, 4.8-liter V8, 5.3-liter V8 and 6.2-liter V8. When properly equipped, Sierra can provide a payload capacity of 1937 lbs, while towing 10,700 lbs. Price Range: ,945 – ,610

4. Midsize / Compact Pickup – Nissan Frontier


In a world where compact and mid-sized pick up trucks will soon cease to exist, the powerful Nissan Frontier sticks out in our minds as the best ride for smaller loads. Frontier offers a 4.0-liter DOHC V6 engine, rated at 261 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque. A 152-horsepower 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder engine is also available, coming in with an MPG rating of 17 city, 21 highway. V6 Nissan Frontier trucks will be able to pull 6,500 pounds, while the four-cylinder hauls 3,500 pounds. Price Range (Estimated): ,000 – ,000

5. Full-Size Sedan – Toyota Avalon


Toyota Avalon might not be the sportiest looking car on the road, but as far as performance goes, it’s still the most reliable full-size sedan on the market. The 2012 Avalon also boasts a top fuel-efficient V6 engine with a rating of 20/29 mpg city/highway. And if you want luxury, Avalon has it. Leather seating options, 9-surround sound speakers, Bluetooth, DVD infotainment system, navigation, the list goes on. Price Range: ,500 – ,900

6. Mid-size Sedan – Honda Civic


As if choosing a new car wasn’t difficult enough, Honda decided to make things worse (or better) by producing 7 different variants of Civic. At the low end, we have a base 2012 Civic sedan, with a non-hybrid mpg rating of almost 40 combined. Shoot to the top of the list and find yourself in a Civic Hybrid. There’s even a compressed natural gas version coming our way. Price Range (excluding Natural Gas Variant): ,805 – ,050

7. Compact Sedan – Chevrolet Cruze


Sure, Chevy Cruze is barely a year old, but we’re already impressed by the fuel consumption of what we call “Cobalt II.” The base model produces an amazing 42 mpg highway, thanks to its fuel efficient engine. Chevrolet states the Eco version of their car, complete with hybrid powertrain, hits 50 mpg. Price Range: ,275 – ,975

8. Coupe / Hatch – Volkswagen Golf 2-Door


The two door VW Golf is somewhere between coupe and hatchback. But no matter what the variant, it’s a sporty car. The GTI’s turbocharged inline-4 engine, with 266 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, is available in gas, diesel (soon in the US) and a hybrid model. Price Range: ,995 – ,000

9. Mini-Van – Nissan Quest


Based on the Japanese El Grand, Quest will reportedly be powered by a 3.7-liter V6 engine with 300 horsepower. Front-wheel drive will be standard, as well as possible all-wheel drive rumors, which is why we put our money on the little known Quest. Websites are still awaiting more news on this mystery van. Price Range: TBA

10. Luxury Car – Lexus IS


Sporty & luxurious, the 2012 Lexus IS is available with two engine options: a standard 2.5-liter V6, rated at 204 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque, and 3.5-liter V6 rated at 306 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Customers can also choose from rear-wheel or all-wheel drive configurations, with six-speed manual and automatic transmissions offered. The IS 350 version can accelerate from 0 – 60 mph in 5.6 seconds. Price Range (Estimated): ,295 – ,180

11. Hybrid / Electric – Toyota Prius


Toyota brought us the first, and now oldest, mass produced hybrid car in the world. 2012′s Toyota Prius will soon come in regular, compact, “MPV” (Minivan) and Plug-in variants. If fuel efficiency is what you’re after, the Prius delivers. The Prius sedan returns a combined 42 mpg. Price Range (for Prius Hybrid Sedan): ,280 – ,550

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It once started with a sales pitch. A happy greeting and hand-shake, “What can we put you into today?” Now, Electric Car dealers need to be educators, too.

Today, selling electric cars is as much about being a teacher as it is a car dealer. Those on the look out for a brand new Tesla S or Nissan Leaf are not searching for the “tried and true” dealership method.

They want to be impressed the moment their feet touch the dealership carpet. Auto makers like Tesla turned their businesses into something that more resembles an Apple Store and not a car franchise.



Screens and colorful posters, hanging from walls that surround wide sales floors complete with sample vehicles, educate the buyer on what it means to be an EV. Tesla hopes its stores will become places where people “spend time when they’re not looking to buy a car.” At least, that’s the plan from George Blankenship, former Apple and Gap retail chief and now head of Tesla’s retail strategy. “The goal is to provide an enjoyable, educational and low-pressure customer experience, so that when a prospective buyer is ready to buy, ‘“they’ll remember,’” he added.

Other dealers, like Coda (who will sell the Coda Sedan in the US starting next year) are looking towards the internet. Sales for Coda will be set up online, but dealerships are being constructed so those interested can test drive the vehicle. Best of all, there won’t be any sales pressure – Coda wants to staff these locations with “non-commissioned” employees.



Electric Car Dealers hope to turn a major profit. Setting up stores to not only sell cars, but to educate buyers, is an expensive process. In the end, shoppers still need to trust the person shaking their hand and greeting them at the door. That is one companion to car sales that will never change.

Source: The New York Times

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