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Car Show

Electrifying the Future: Volkswagen's ID. Buzz Steals the Spotlight at the Seattle Auto Show

As the Seattle International Auto Show unfolded at the Lumen Field Event Center, one vehicle stood out among the crowd – Volkswagen's highly anticipated electric van, the ID. Buzz. With its retro-inspired design and cutting-edge technology, the ID. Buzz captivated attendees, signaling a shift in the electric vehicle (EV) landscape.

Embracing the Past, Powering the Future

Volkswagen ID. Buzz: A Nostalgic Icon Reborn

The Volkswagen ID. Buzz is more than just a modern electric van; it's a symbol of the brand's rich heritage and a testament to its commitment to innovation. With its iconic silhouette and a range of up to 260 miles, the ID. Buzz seamlessly blends the past and the present, offering a glimpse into the future of sustainable transportation.As I took the ID. Buzz for a test drive, the vehicle's impressive acceleration and roomy interior immediately caught my attention. The expansive moonroof and high seating position provided a commanding view of the road, while the sleek, minimalist cockpit design exuded a sense of sophistication. Automotive journalist Tom Voelk aptly described the ID. Buzz as a vehicle that could have been "if IKEA built a car," highlighting its unique blend of functionality and style.The ID. Buzz's nostalgia-inducing design is not just a gimmick; it's a strategic move by Volkswagen to capture the hearts and minds of a new generation of EV enthusiasts. By tapping into the enduring appeal of the iconic Microbus, the ID. Buzz offers a familiar and approachable entry point into the world of electric mobility, making it a compelling alternative to the more polarizing Tesla Cybertruck.

Challenging Tesla's Dominance: The Rise of EV Alternatives

As I navigated the auto show, it became clear that the ID. Buzz was not the only EV turning heads. The Chevy Equinox EV, Kia EV9, and GMC Sierra EV all showcased the growing diversity of the electric vehicle market, offering consumers a wider range of options beyond the Tesla brand.The Equinox EV, with its impressive 300-mile range and affordable price point, caught Voelk's attention as a practical and accessible EV option. Meanwhile, the Kia EV9 impressed with its spacious three-row seating and fast charging capabilities, catering to the needs of families and road-trippers.Perhaps the most intriguing alternative to the Cybertruck was the GMC Sierra EV, which Voelk described as the "best electric pickup you can get." With a range of over 400 miles and a host of innovative features, the Sierra EV challenged the notion that Tesla's polarizing design is the only viable option for electric trucks.These EV alternatives not only provide consumers with more choices but also signal a shift in the industry. As Tesla's market dominance begins to wane, new players are emerging, offering fresh perspectives and innovative solutions that cater to a diverse range of preferences and needs.

Porsche's Electrified Elegance: The Macan EV

While the more affordable EV options captured the attention of the masses, the Porsche Macan EV stood out as a testament to the brand's commitment to electrification. With its sleek design, impressive performance, and Porsche's signature handling, the Macan EV offered a glimpse into the future of luxury electric vehicles.Voelk's enthusiasm for the Macan EV was palpable, as he praised its superb driving dynamics and the way it embodied the Porsche DNA. Despite its hefty price tag, the Macan EV demonstrated that high-end automakers are embracing the electric revolution, providing discerning consumers with a premium alternative to the more mainstream EV offerings.The presence of the Macan EV at the Seattle Auto Show underscored the growing diversity of the EV market, where established luxury brands are now competing alongside newcomers and disruptors. This convergence of traditional automotive excellence and cutting-edge electric technology is shaping the future of the industry, offering consumers a wider range of choices and experiences.As the Seattle International Auto Show came to a close, it was clear that the electric vehicle landscape is undergoing a transformative shift. The Volkswagen ID. Buzz, with its nostalgic charm and modern capabilities, emerged as the star of the event, captivating attendees and signaling a new era of electric mobility. However, the ID. Buzz was not alone; a host of EV alternatives, each with its own unique strengths and appeal, showcased the growing diversity and competitiveness of the market, challenging Tesla's dominance and offering consumers a glimpse into the electrified future of transportation.

The City of Angels is set to host one of the most anticipated automotive events of the year, as the Los Angeles Auto Show prepares to open its doors for a 10-day spectacle. This year's show promises to be a true feast for car enthusiasts, with over two dozen manufacturers showcasing their latest and greatest models, thrilling test drives on the returning Electric Avenue, and exclusive VIP tours led by industry experts. Get ready to immerse yourself in the heart of the automotive world as we dive into the details of this must-attend event.

Unlock the Excitement: Discover the 2023 LA Auto Show

Dates and Hours: Mark Your Calendars

The LA Auto Show will take place at the Los Angeles Convention Center, with the public opening on Friday, November 22nd. The show will run for 10 days, with the following hours:- November 22: 9 a.m. - 10 p.m.- November 23: 9 a.m. - 10 p.m.- November 24: 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.- November 25: 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.- November 26: 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.- November 27: 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.- November 28 (Thanksgiving): 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.- November 29: 9 a.m. - 10 p.m.- November 30: 9 a.m. - 10 p.m.- December 1: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Ticket Prices: Unlock the Automotive Wonderland

Securing your spot at the LA Auto Show is easy, with a range of ticket options to suit every budget. General admission tickets start at $24 plus a $4 fee for adults (13-64), $13 plus a $3 fee for seniors (65+), and $9 plus a $2 fee for children (6-12). Children under 6 years old can enjoy the show for free.For those looking to maximize their experience, weekday-only tickets from November 25th to November 28th offer a more affordable option, with adults paying $24 total, seniors $13 total, and children $9.Elevate your visit with VIP tour tickets, available from November 23rd through November 26th, November 30th, and December 1st. These exclusive tours include an "auto enthusiast showcase," "electrification showcase," "fun for kids showcase," and an "SUV/outdoor showcase." Prices for these tours are $115 for adults and $55 for children.Priority entrance, Thanksgiving Day family bundles, and group discounts for parties of 20 or more are also available. All tickets must be purchased online, as they will not be sold at the convention center.

Getting There: Navigating the LA Auto Show

With the influx of visitors, traffic and parking around the LA Convention Center are expected to be busier than usual. The venue offers non-reserved parking at the South Hall, West Hall, and Venice Garage for $25-$35 per day. However, public transportation is highly recommended, with the Pico Union station located just one block away from the venue.

Test Drives: Unleash the Power

The LA Auto Show is not just about admiring the latest models; it's also about experiencing them firsthand. Visitors will have the opportunity to take test drives both inside and outside the convention center.The Electric Avenue, a popular feature, is making a comeback in 2023, allowing you to get behind the wheel of electric vehicles from brands like Cadillac, Chevrolet, Kia, Lucid, Rivian, and VinFast.For off-road enthusiasts, the show will feature test drives of the Jeep Gladiator Rubicon, Jeep Wrangler Rubicon "392," Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4XE, and Ford Bronco Badlands inside the South and West Halls.Additionally, visitors will have the chance to test a wide range of models from nearly a dozen different manufacturers on the streets of downtown Los Angeles.

Unveiling the New and Exciting

This year's LA Auto Show is brimming with new and exciting features. One of the highlights is the "All Roads Stage," a new exhibit showcasing the unique ways in which Southern California's automotive culture is shaping the industry.From November 22nd to November 24th, the show will feature the highly anticipated NILU hypercar, designed by Sasha Selipanov, a renowned automotive designer with a pedigree that includes Lamborghini, Bugatti, and Koenigsegg. This naturally aspirated V12-powered beast is set to deliver over 1,000 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful naturally aspirated vehicles in the world.Following the NILU, Tesla specialist Unplugged Performance will take center stage from November 25th to 26th, showcasing their brand-new Cybertruck with custom body panels, lift-kits, wheels, enhanced lighting, and innovative bed-storage solutions.On November 27th and 28th, the spotlight will shine on MrCarSounds, also known as Greg Gevojanyan, and his brand "Be LOUD." Gevojanyan, renowned for his ability to mimic car engine sounds with remarkable accuracy, will debut his latest exhaust system at the show.Lastly, from November 29th through December 1st, visitors can catch a glimpse of the TWR Supercat, a high-performance restomod based on the Jaguar XJS chassis. This unique GT car, a collaboration between Los Angeles native and Porsche enthusiast Magnus Walker and designer Khyzyl Saleem, features a twin-turbocharged V12 engine producing over 600 horsepower. Only 88 units of this exclusive model will be produced.

Concord's vibrant automotive community gathered for the final Cars and Coffee on Capitol event of the season, showcasing a diverse array of makes and models that captivated the crowds on a Sunday morning. The event, hosted by Revelstoke Coffee shop, has been a monthly fixture since April, offering a platform for car enthusiasts to come together, admire each other's prized possessions, and share their passion for all things automotive.

Revving Up for the Final Showcase of the Season

A Diverse Display of Automotive Gems

The Cars and Coffee on Capitol event on Sunday was a true celebration of automotive diversity, with a wide range of vehicles on display, from classic cars to modern marvels. The event attracted a captivated audience, who eagerly explored the various makes and models parked along Capitol Street in Concord. From the rumbling engines to the meticulously maintained exteriors, each car told a unique story, captivating the attention of the attendees.One of the standout vehicles at the event was a replica of a 1965 Birkin, a South African-built two-seater modeled after the iconic Lotus Super Seven. The owner, 83-year-old Bill Gordon from Loudon, proudly showcased his creation, which he has been tinkering with and customizing since its construction in 2001. Gordon, a retired software engineer, has been a lifelong car enthusiast, and the Birkin replica was a testament to his passion and ingenuity.

A Celebration of Automotive Passion and Craftsmanship

The Cars and Coffee on Capitol event was more than just a display of cars; it was a celebration of the automotive community's passion and craftsmanship. Attendees were able to engage with the car owners, learning about the stories behind their prized possessions and the meticulous work that went into their restoration or customization.For Gordon, the Birkin replica was a labor of love, a project that allowed him to indulge his love for cars and tinker with the intricate details. "It's a lot of fun," he said. "I play with this car. I'm always doing something new to it." His enthusiasm and dedication to his creation were palpable, inspiring others in the community to pursue their own automotive dreams.

A Vibrant Community of Automotive Enthusiasts

The Cars and Coffee on Capitol event has become a hub for Concord's vibrant automotive community, attracting a diverse group of enthusiasts who share a common passion for all things automotive. From classic car aficionados to owners of the latest high-performance models, the event provided a platform for these individuals to come together, share their knowledge, and celebrate their shared love for the open road.The event's monthly schedule, held every second Sunday since April, has allowed the community to grow and strengthen its bonds. Regulars at the event have had the opportunity to forge new connections, swap stories, and inspire one another to explore the depths of their automotive interests. This sense of community has been a driving force behind the success of the Cars and Coffee on Capitol event, making it a must-attend destination for car enthusiasts in the region.

A Bittersweet Farewell to the Season

As the final Cars and Coffee on Capitol event of the season drew to a close, a bittersweet feeling permeated the air. Attendees were reluctant to say goodbye to the monthly gathering, knowing that they would have to wait until the spring to experience the camaraderie and automotive excitement once again.However, the event's organizers and the community of enthusiasts have already begun planning for the next season, eager to build upon the success of the previous year and introduce new and exciting elements to the event. The anticipation for the 2023 Cars and Coffee on Capitol season is palpable, as the community looks forward to reuniting and showcasing their prized possessions once more.