An Automotive Podcast Designed to Fit in Any Type of Vehicle

Auto makers around the world are feeling good and reaping trunkfuls of money, as demand continues to grow. Ford, Daimler and Hyundai -- each from a different continent -- all had extremely profitable third quarters.


But don't call Ford a rusty old auto maker, it considers itself a tech firm now.

That's not unusual. Technology is allowing all car makers to speed the design process, quickly improve or correct flaws and perhaps soon print out parts instead of machining them.

New technology could be what is helping auto makers create vehicles that accommodate more body types and sizes in greater comfort.

Nothing much new in the color department, with white, silver and black continuing to dominate the hues of new car lots.

Not the optimal design for this driver

Car color isn't something that kids these days care about. But neither do they care about driving or owning cars, apparently because they can't afford them.

Perhaps if they made driver testing a game, that would lead to more teenage drivers.

Perhaps app-powered slot cars, which are cool for kids and for some car podcasters, will drive even more interest in cars.

Feel like you are getting bad recommendations from your mechanic, ask for a video of your repair.

But don't ask car people for car buying recommendations, they are lousy at it.

DWI: Driving While Intoxicated . . . by This Amazing Podcast

The earthquake and tsunami in Japan has had a huge impact on the auto industry, idling assembling and parts plants across the world, and now even limiting color supplies. Black Fords are on hold as are some reds. The Prius is back into production but the larger Prius V has been delayed.

Cars are getting more connects and Ford's coming Focus Electric with have its own mobile phone plan thanks to AT&T. The wireless service will allow the vehicle to communicate with it's owner through an app that will provide charging information.

Drive happy, and safely

Sprint is hoping that users will pay them for a service that limits phone access when it detects driving, but we're skeptical of the $2 per month charge will catch on with drivers.

Some Senators are skeptical of some new apps that provide drivers with information on speed traps, red light cameras, speed cameras, school zones and most importantly DUI checkpoints. They have asked the apps be removed and RIM has already complied.

That might not be helpful, but Cambridge, Mass., by installing bicycle repair stations. Maybe they can also add some of the things that drivers should keep in their trunk for emergencies.

Finally, Facebook allows you to find our what your old girlfriend or boyfriend is up to, and now Check My Ride from AutoCheck allows you to find out where your old car is.

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This Is a 100% Electric-Powered Podcast and We Don't Lie About It

Who cares whether the gas-engine powers the wheels or the electric motors if you get 127 miles per gallon. The controversy about the Volt powertrain has put Chevrolet in the hot seat this week, but it probably won't hurt GM's stock price next month. Still, it's nice to inject some truthiness into your marketing.

Will GM's bad marketing doom the Volt?

Best Buy is betting on electric vehicles and planning to install charging stations at some of its stores. Probably a good way to kill some time in the store while getting some juice in the batteries. But remember the eitiquette rules of the charger that All Cars Electric has composed for would-be electric car owners.

More corn is coming to your gas tank. The EPA is getting ready to allow more E15 fuel (up from 10% ethanol to 15%) to reach consumers.

It used to be that the design or style of vehicle you bought was determined by what you did with the vehicle. The increase in alternative fuel powerplants means drivers need to know how they drive to determine the right engine, writers Joe White.

Ford has worked with Ideo to come up with design principles around dashboard and interfaces to ensure drivers keep their eyes on the road and hands on the wheel.

Need an electronic babysitter to stop from texting in the car? A new app will pay you to keep your hands off the smartphone while you drive.

I care about the color of my car and silver is the right color. I'm not alone. According to PPG, 31% of new cars in the U.S. and Canada are silver or some shade of grey or charcoal.

GetThisShowOnTheRoad October 14, 2010.mp3