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Don’t be surprised if you see electric vehicle charging stations popping up along the highways in your hometown. All 50 states have now received final federal approval to begin construction on the first-ever nationwide network of electric vehicle charging stations. Under the plan, an EV charging station will be erected roughly every 50 miles along interstate highways. It’s all part of the Biden administration’s plan to inspire car buyers to go electric in the next decade. The U.S. Department of Transportation ( DOT) announced that it has approved EV charger plans from a remaining list of 17 states. Electric Vehicle Charging Stations Have Been Approved Nationwide. Here is Everything You Should Know . That fact triggered the release of $1.5 billion in federal funds to all jurisdictions across the nation. That’s a whopping $5 billion over five years to install (or upgrade) EV chargers along 75,000 miles of highway from the East Coast to the West Coast. The goal is to have 500,000 EV chargers nationwide. Plans for the other 33 states and the District of Columbia had already been approved. That means that by the end of this year you could start noticing the expansions and upgrades to existing highway electric vehicle charging stations in places like Texas, California, and Missouri, just to name a few states. If You're an EV Owner, Charging Your Car is About to Become Easier Than Ever. Many of these states already have at least four fast-charger ports that allow electric vehicles to fully recharge in about an hour. “America led the original automotive revolution in the last century, and … we’re poised to lead in the 21st century with electric vehicles,” said Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. He said the plans will “help ensure that Americans in every part of the country – from the largest cities to the most rural communities – can be positioned to unlock the savings and benefits of electric vehicles.” Check out: Expect Fully Luxury Electric Vehicles by 2030 from these Car Brands All of this means that construction of new electric vehicle charging stations could begin by spring of 2023. Expect to See More EV Charging Locations As Soon As 2023. Approval of charging stations is a big step toward widespread acceptance and use of electric vehicles among consumers. President Joe Biden has set a goal that 50 percent of new U.S. car sales to be electric by 2030. And he’s also touting a fresh round of  tax credits next year of up to $7,500 in order to make electric vehicles accessible to every U.S. citizen. Texas, Florida, and California have said their grids should be able to handle the increased capacity of a million or more EVs. Other states are still working on their own plans. Most of the major car companies have said they are moving toward an all-electric future. Thanks to better batteries EVs – especially luxury EVs - have a bigger range than ever before. EVs are The Future Now More Than Ever as Electric Vehicle Charging Stations Have Been Approved Nationwide. One good reason to buy an EV is future value calculation. That calculation is moving decidedly in favor of luxury EVs, especially as demand for gasoline-powered vehicles shrinks, according to Bloomberg media. The media outlet pointed out that car manufacturers have spent the past year or two announcing plans for electric vehicle models and production facilities. So, is this the time to go with an EV? Here are some reasons you may want to consider. Price. Owning An EV Comes With its Perks. Why Not Take Advantage of That? Car manufacturers are launching their higher-end models first, so the selection is better at the top end and prices are surprisingly reasonable, according to media reports. Luxury manufacturers have received the message from investors that they'll be rewarded for hastening the transition to electric vehicles, while profits from gasoline-powered vehicles will serve mostly to fund those types of investments. Tax incentives. Benefit From Everything An EV Has To Offer. Become An Owner of An Electric Vehicle Today. We already mentioned the new round of  incentives of $7,500 a vehicle or more.  This is more than enough reason for many buyers to act now. Who knows how long it will last? To sum it up, a combination of increased range, lower prices, incentives, and more charging make now a great time to start considering buying an EV. There's no better time to buy an EV than now that electric vehicle charging stations have been approved nationwide. Check out our latest EV inventory below. Electric vehicle inventory

Volkswagen's software upgrade for the Golf is the epitome of vehicle technology. What does Volkswagen's software upgrade mean for you as the owner or potential owner of a Golf or other Volkswagen car? Get Your Hands on a New VW to Enjoy The Volkswagen's Software Upgrade. According to Volkswagen, it means that switching between menus and performing any tasks on the infotainment screen will be much faster than before, among other things. And a new voice control system ensures that you won’t need to actually touch the touchscreen as much as you did before, according to the German automaker. If you are an existing Golf owner you may be contacted by Volkswagen to have the software updated as part of a voluntary service update. These same updates will be rolled out on the Golf GTI and the Golf R in America, where the standard Golf is no longer being rolled out as of 2021. Check out: Power, Performance and Plenty of Sporty Charm: Five Reasons the 2022 VW Golf R is an Instant Classic. The new infotainment system has rolled out in 2022 for not only the Golf but also VW’s electric cars based on the MEB platform. These include the ID.3 and ID.4. Volkswagen: Peek Inside The New Infosystem. The system, called the MIB infotainment system, now brings quicker voice control as well as improved accidental-touch recognition along with more powerful processing, according to VW. The upgraded infotainment hardware will be fitted to brand new Golfs produced from now on that have the Discover Pro system. Along with revamped driver assists, a head-up display, and wireless charging there’s also better-optimized software, which includes a new voice control with faster recognition and response – and with the ability to be interrupted. The new Volkswagen's software upgrade can even decipher whether the driver or the front passenger is speaking. It will now take fewer than five seconds for the Golf’s navigation system to respond when you enter a destination. An extra proximity sensor also makes gesture controls work more optimally than before – even from several inches away. Volkswagen's software upgrade fine tunes all previous software issues, adds popularly requested features and overall makes the infotainment system faster and more responsive. Experience VW Technology Like Never Before. Among other things, the system can understand when you say something like "I'm too warm" or "Where can I find a Mexican restaurant in Toledo?" and respond rapidly. The system employs digital microphones so that the voice control can detect not only who is speaking but what they want. Things like “turn on the air conditioner” or “turn down the heat” are now fast and easy. What else do you need to know about the optimized system? -It’s moved in recent years from physical tactile controls to a touchscreen set-up and - even that touchscreen has been improved. -It allows interruptions so you can have a more organic conversation with the system -Enables the driver and front-seat passenger to operate the entertainment, navigation, telephone, and climate control. -It employs voice controls responses and reactions that are four times faster than before. The Optimized System Has Everything You Need on the Road and More! Overall, the performance of the graphics card has tripled, according to Volkswagen. Volkswagen's software upgrade will have 25 percent more computing capacity and 3x the graphical power compared to the earlier version, the German automaker said. The free upgrade impacts those cars that have the VW Discover Pro system, which offers a range of media entertainment and functionality at your fingertips on an 8“ touchscreen color display, according to Volkswagen.  It comes with a navigation system, DVD drive, and DAB/FM/AM radio. Those cars that don’t have Discover Pro will receive the same processing power as the current advanced set-up. Have All the Power of Technology at Your Fingertips With the Volkswagen's Software Upgrade . With its new system, Volkswagen is essentially reducing the need for physical controls. That means certain cars can now identify which of the front seat passengers is speaking and respond directly to requests for heating the seat or tweaking the interior temperature. And that speech recognition is now 95 percent accurate thanks to high-tech microphones and cloud-based sources and offline-stored data, VW said. Check out the latest! Volkswagen inventory

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf is celebrated for impressive styling and even more impressive performance and handling. And now, the Golf has earned one of the highest safety car awards in the U.S. insurance industry. The VW Golf Has Earned One of The Highest Safety Car Awards. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety ( IIHS) is an independent, nonprofit scientific and educational group that is dedicated to reducing deaths, injuries, and property damage from motor vehicle crashes using research and evaluation. The organization also aims to educate consumers, policymakers, and safety professionals through its work. The Volkswagen Golf GTI and Volkswagen Golf R recently soared through all of the six crash tests conducted by the IIHS, making it earn the highest safety car awards. Both hatchbacks come solidly equipped with standard driver-assist features that minimize the likelihood and impact of a crash. And the new insurance industry crash test demonstrated how well those safety features work. Among other things, VW notes that the Golf has safety features such as automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, active lane control, blind-spot monitors, and parking sensors in the front and rear of the car that helped it earn the highest safety car awards from the insurance industry. The Golf Was Engineered With an Impressive Braking System To Prevent Crashes. The emergency braking system earned a ranking of "Superior" in terms of avoiding crashes in 12 and 25-mph tests, according to the IIHS findings. The IIHS gave the 2022 Golf R a “Top Safety Pick+” designation for its LED projector headlights with automatic high beams. Check out: Power, Performance and Plenty of Sporty Charm: Five Reasons the 2022 VW Golf R is an Instant Classic. The 2022 Golf GTI, meanwhile, earned a “Top Safety Pick” designation when outfitted with those same headlights on the model-topping Autobahn trim. The Golf GTI: Considered A "Top Safety Pick" Vehicle. This is important because the majority of fatal crashes happen at night. So the insurance industry-backed IIHS keyed in on headlight efficacy in their testing. The IIHS testing is widely considered to be more stringent than that of the U.S. government’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration ( NHTSA). Volkswagen has cut down the Golf lineup in the United States but the high-performance GTI and Golf R remain available to American buyers. Providing them with redefined safety features. The New Golf Comes Equipped with Redefined Safety Features. VW outfitted them with a long list of safety features that made it possible to obtain the highest safety car awards. For crash safety, both cars earned “Good” scores in all categories. The IIHS is an insurance industry-backed organization that conducts safety testing on most new makes and models. Introduced more than four decades ago, the Golf design has stood the test of time. With a turbocharged engine and sleek design, the Golf is truly a modern hatchback. Stylish, sporty, and endlessly iconic, the original hatchback always leads with great design. For 2022, the Golf has driver-focused media and a touchscreen display as well as a variety of standard and available driver assistance features - a suite of convenient tech at your fingertips.⁠ Besides Earning the Highest Safety Car Awards, The Golf Also Offers Convenient Tech at Your Fingertips. Providing a generous supply of torque, the Golf has an available 8-speed automatic transmission that offers acceleration and smooth gear changes. But if you’re looking for more control, you can shift manually in Tiptronic mode. To further customize your drive drop that baby into Sport mode, which will amplify the fun. You get great value combined with style, sporty handling, roominess, fuel efficiency, and technology. Starting at $23,195. The Golf features a 1.4-liter turbocharged and direct-injection engine that offers 147 hp and 184 pound-feet of torque. You will zoom from zero to 60 in 5.6 seconds and reach a top speed of 155 mph. Quick and sporty, there’s no telling where the fun can take you if you’re driving a VW Golf. Features of the Volkswagen Golf Stylish, sporty, and endlessly iconic, the original hatchback Gold puts iconic design at the forefront. A thoughtfully designed cargo area helps keep you organized. The sleek glass display with a touchscreen sound system makes selecting the perfect song easy. The Volkswagen Golf is Equipped With Features to Enhance Your Driving Experience. VW Car-Net Hotspot⁠5 can turn your car into a Wi-Fi Hotspot, allowing your passengers to stream on up to four devices. From Driver Assistance features to Volkswagen Car-Net® the Golf comes with technology designed to make you feel more confident.⁠ You benefit from the view of a wide lens to help you see obstacles when backing up. Explore the latest! VW Inventory

Did you know that the oldest-known registered VW Bus is a Dove Blue panel van named Sofie that recently celebrated its 72nd birthday? In 1950, Sofie, now the oldest VW, was delivered brand spanking new to a buyer in Hildesheim, a city in the north of Germany that's not far from Volkswagen's headquarters in Wolfsburg. Sofie, The Oldest Known VW Bus in the World Has Turned 72. It spent more than two decades delivering goods on the picturesque yet winding roads that meander through the region. Sofie, the oldest VW bus, changed hands several times from 1973 to 1992. Yet despite the change in ownership (or maybe because of it) Sofie's important role in automotive history was never mentioned much, if it even was known. Up until recently, it was simply an outdated cargo hauler that was not very popular with the average customer around the world. As the years went on, VW bus variants became sought after auto collector’s vehicles. Sofie eventually won the attention of a Danish collector who bought the bus sight-unseen after uncovering its chassis number build date. By that time the olden bus had not been on the road in nearly two decades. So the Danish buyer set about to bring Sofie back to her former glory. The Oldest VW Bus in the World Has Turned 72. It was quite a project. Sofie underwent a three-year restoration and then spent years traveling around Europe to meet her fans (aka car enthusiasts). During that time Sofie also won several prizes at car shows. After unsuccessfully searching for the van's next buyer, the elderly Danish owner ended up selling it to Volkswagen in 2014. Sofie is now living a life of ease in the official VW collection. The Oldest VW Bus in the World Has Turned 72. When not traveling to events, Sofie is often on display in one of the two VW museums in Wolfsburg. Sofie is powered by an air-cooled, 1.2-liter flat-four engine that churns out a whopping 25 horsepower at 3,300 rpm. The bus can reach a top speed of 60 mph on a straightaway. Like every pre-1955 VW bus, its engine lid extends from the back end to the belt line and it, therefore, has no rear hatch. The Oldest VW Bus in the World Has Turned 72. We can expect to see more of Sofie as VW launches the ID buzz. The new high-tech ID buzz will take plenty of its styling cues from the 1950 original VW bus. But it will be electric, very high-tech and much quicker. And eventually, self-driving. Check out: The All-Electric ID. Buzz “VW Microbus” Will Be Worth the Wait. And Wait We Will…. Sofie could have lost her status as the oldest-known Type 2 by the time the ID Buzz launches. That's because another one that came out even earlier could emerge. Every single example of the VW bus built during the initial five months of production is currently missing, according to media reports. The Oldest VW Bus in the World Has Turned 72. Yes, the Bus was mass-produced. But it was also "mass destroyed" over time as one media outlet put it. But it's possible one is still sitting moss covered in the forests of Germany or Austria, so you never know. It has one of the richest histories of any car on the planet. Volkswagen approved the Type 2 van for production on May 19, 1949. The first VW Bus left the Wolfsburg plant on the 12th of November that year. The more glass-lade “Microbus” joined the lineup in May 1950. And VW ended up building a total of 9,541 Types 2s in that first production year. The first-generation Microbus featured design characteristics that were unique to this model, according to Auto Trends website. These included a split aerodynamic windshield and some window variations. Standard models were equipped with 11 windows, Deluxe versions had 15 windows and Sunroof Deluxe models added eight small skylight windows for a total of 23 windows, according to Auto Trends. The first models also had removable middle- and rear-row seats, while later models had only a removable rear seat. The Oldest VW Bus in the World Has Turned 72. After the original model’s 18-year run, the second-generation Volkswagen Microbus was unveiled, minus the split windshield, which was replaced by a single wraparound window. The window count dropped as well with only vent, side, sliding and rear windows featured. At that point, a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine making 47 horsepower and paired with a four-speed manual or a three-speed automatic transmission was offered. Later on, a 1.7-liter four-cylinder engine making 65 horsepower was introduced, but imports to the United States were soon ended, according to Auto Trends. Volkswagen continued to manufacture the Volkswagen Microbus after leaving the US market, building the vehicle at plants located in Germany, Argentina, Brazil, Mexico, and Australia. A third-generation model was introduced in 1980, sold briefly as the Vanagon in the United States before high tariffs ended imports. By 2009 only the Brazilian plant was manufacturing the van and that model was based on the second-generation design with a water-cooled engine. After 78 consecutive years of building the rear-engine buses, VW announced the end of the Brazilian-manufactured Kombi. New environmental legislation had effectively killed the model. VW bus and production stopped in 2014. The Oldest VW Bus in the World Has Turned 72. Get ready for a comeback! The VW bus is about to return in the next year or so as an electric vehicle. Currently known as the ID. Buzz, the newest version of the microbus will offer 369 horsepower from electric motors on each axle. The original 1950 Type 2 sold in the United States had a mere 30 horsepower, making it very slow driving up hills. VW Bus Has Evolved Significantly Throughout the Years. If you're interested in pre-ordering ID. Buzz or more information contact our VW dealership: VW MARIN

The Volkswagen Golf R is an instant classic. Combining speed and sophistication, a refined turbocharged engine and what Car & Driver describes as “joyful handling,” the 2022 VW Golf R is causing a big stir in the automotive world. Part of the reason? The Golf R’s 315 horsepower engine offers 295 lb-ft torque and is paired with an available 7-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission. The result is the new R-performance torque vectoring 4MOTION® all-wheel-drive that will send your heart into race mode. In other words, this is a VW designed for your inner adrenaline junky. You may also like: The Volkswagen ID.Buzz Revealed: Everything you Need to Know about the Super Cool Electric Microbus on the Horizon Still not sure if the R is right for you? Here’s five things we love about the 2022 Golf R that you may too. 1. It’s part of history. Although the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R is an all-new model it’s part of the famous eighth generation of Volkswagen Golf. That makes it a super-hot hatch that is sure to be a favorite among car lovers and even collectors. You get sports car fun at an affordable price. The Golf R delivers plenty of performance and a spirited heart-racing drive. You can choose between manual or an automatic transmission. 2. It’s relatively affordable. It’s a premium-performance yet practical hatchback that starts $44,090. And it’s perfect for sport enthusiasts thanks to what Hot Cars calls its “capable chassis and suspension system and the brilliant turbocharged inline-4 motor that has the potential to outshine many of the rivals.” 3. That motor. Love peppy cars? You’ll love the 2022 VW Golf R’s 2.0-liter turbocharged direct-injection inline-4 engine that churns out 315 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. The six-speed manual transmission comes standard and you have the option of a super-fun 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. All of the power comes through a full-time AWD drivetrain system. What's not to love? 4. That zero-to-60. You’ll get from zero to 60 in a mere 3.9 seconds – almost unheard of in a hatchback like the Golf. Pop it into Nürburgring mode and you’ll experience lightning-quick response and learn why the Golf R is already so popular. You'll experience torque that allows the low-end and mid-range to shine and that 7-speed DSG won’t let you down thanks to its lovely responsiveness and handling. According to VW, the AWD drivetrain with the electronically controlled limited-slip differential keeps the Golf R in line with ease. Corning is fun and absolutely no problem! 5. Spacious interior. The cabin of the Golf R is quite spacious. For instance, five passengers can travel comfortably, with plenty of legroom in both the front and back. Additionally, the armrest is wide enough to store certain items – as is the glovebox. You will love doing your summer road trip with friends or family in the Golf R! Other things we love about the Golf R: Supportive seats with optional heat. Rear doors open wide. Striking exterior design with sharp body lines that lend an aggressive and sporty look. Stunning headlight design. Beautifully crafted 19-inch  y-spoke alloy wheels with blue painted brake calipers and drilled and slotted rotors also turn heads. The rear even looks good thanks to the LED taillights, wide rear tires and the quad-tip exhaust looks exquisite. So to recap, the Volkswagen Golf R has all the power and performance you desire– plus plenty of other bells and whistles – that will make you feel connected to the road, comfortable and safe. In the Golf R, your driving experience is not only packed with performance but super safe thanks to the new standard driver-assistance features including forward-collision warning, automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control, among others. And you also get a semi-autonomous driving mode. Not only is the build quality excellent like the regular R, but it’s got plenty of its own charms as well. Come experience this instant classic today! Check out our latest: VW INVENTORY

The Volkswagen Golf has become a classic. As a compact car with a cool look and plenty of pep, the Golf became an instant automotive icon. In fact, it’s shape that was considered revolutionary for its time. Its creator, Giorgio Giugiaro, designed what VW calls "an incredibly angular car" that is popular to this day. Giugiaro named it “Golf”, a moniker derived from the German word for Gulf Stream. Not only is it affordable but it’s fast, responsive, and great looking. And, best of all, the VW Golf can be tricked out with special Golf accessories that allow you to improve your Golf over time. Volkswagen add-ons are specifically crafted for cool looks and easy installation. Best of all, we ship directly to you! more Here’s a list of some of our favorite accessories for your Golf. Seat covers Protect your Golf’s front seats with VW seat covers meant specifically for your special hatchback. Car mats, aka "automobile floor mats," are designed to protect a vehicle's floor from wear, dirt, and corrosion from salt and other chemicals you and your passengers might bring in. One major reason to use a mat is to keep your Golf looking clean and tidy. They work well because they can be removed for a good scrubbing and then put back in place. Seat covers are well-designed do more for your VW than you might think. Seat covers act as protectants that safeguard your seats from dirt and liquid - and they come in a variety of materials, from fabric to sheepskin. However, seat covers can also significantly improve your commuting comfort. Even better, they give your cabin that tailored custom look you love. Their materials can range from mesh to canvas to velour/jacquard – even leather and sheepskin. Our vote: Always choose genuine OEM VW seat covers for your Golf. They are designed just for your car so you get a great fit. Headrest Covers Headrest covers allow you to drive in style, enjoy the comfort and protect your headrest from dirt and grime, wear and tear. Trunk Organizer A trunk organizer for things like groceries can change your life for the better. Once you use one you might never want to be without a trunk organizer again. Not only does it make road trips and running errands easier but it will keep your groceries and other items well organized and protect them from tipping over, spilling, or rolling around. Spoilers They look cool and perform a function. Spoilers are intended to improve airflow above and below (and around) vehicles to reduce wind resistance, which is also called drag. They also take advantage of air to create more downforce and allow better grip at high speeds. In other words, they are designed to “spoil” airflow to reduce any negative effects. They started to be widely used in the 1960s as automakers sought to improve the aerodynamics of various racing and performance vehicles. Later on, federal fuel economy regulations pushed automakers to improve the aerodynamics of their cars in order to create higher mileage ratings. That’s because a car with less wind resistance uses less fuel at highway speeds. A well-designed and constructed rear wing will act like an upside-down aircraft wing to produce downforce instead of lift. But sticking anything poorly designed on the exterior of a vehicle is bound to disrupt the aerodynamics that were designed into it – so always choose an OEM VW spoiler for your Golf. VW Logo Key Fob Not up for spending a fortune on expensive parts and accessories for your Golf? How about this VW logo key fob – to remind you of your beloved Golf even when you are away from it? Roadside Assistance Kit You never know when you might need help on the highway and this roadside assistance kit from VW s just what you want when you’re road tripping in your Golf this summer. Whether your car battery dies and leaves you stranded in the desert or if you or someone needs some bandages quickly, the kit comes with assistance items for any number of dangers. It includes: A padded carrying bag Booster cables Warning triangle Multi-tool with pliers Blades and screwdriver LED flashlight Emergency blanket Emergency poncho Whistle Work gloves PVC tape Cable ties 15 adhesive bandages Extra-large bandages 2 knuckle bandages Chrome Trim Golf lovers love to upgrade. And chrome auto trim can give your car striking definition and emphasize its sleek lines—and, with chrome trim molding, it can protect ding-prone paint even as it adds style to your ride. We think they speak for themselves but chrome is a classic and will have you driving in style and turning heads wherever you go in your Golf. Rims A nice set of rims can add an extra bit of bling and beauty to your Golf. Adding just the right rims can make your Golf look like a million bucks, almost like upscale jewelry for your car. Gleaming and sparkling rims will garner you a lot of attention as you cruise down the street in your Golf. Rims also play a functional role on your vehicle, though, protecting your wheel from wear and tear while helping you move about in style. The outward face is what is seen on the outside of the vehicle. Other parts, including the spokes, plate, dish, and bolt circle all help to keep the wheel attached to the car and can even provide support. At $571 each these VW alloy wheels may be pricey but they are a sure-fire way to boost your Golf’s “it” factor. Wheel Caps Not ready to spring for blingy rims for your Golf? You can still boost your wheel look with these VW black center caps. At only $28.76 per wheel, they look great and give your golf a nice tailored look. View our VW Golf inventory.

Are you considering pre-booking the new Volkswagen ID.Buzz, which is expected to hit showrooms in the coming year? Or, are you just chomping at the bit just to get a look at one in real life before you decide? The bad news: You will likely have to wait for the Volkswagen ID.Buzz to hit the market in early 2024. The good news: It’s filled with cool features, some of which you may not have heard about yet. more People are already talking about its updated “microbus” design, including sharp angles and two-toned color scheme, and its relatively affordable price compared to other EVs. And of course, there's the powerful and fully electric powertrain. In fact, we think it might just blow your mind. You may have heard it’s an update of the classic Volkswagen microbus and that it contains everything you love about the original. Check Out: From People’s “Wagon” to Hippie Bus and Now Fully Electric, the VW Microbus ID.Buzz is Poised to Change the Automotive World Yet Again But here are some of the updates that make the Volkswagen ID.Buzz one for the EV history books: Layout and design It’s got a simple V-shaped interior and plenty of tech. In fact, the dashboard encompasses most of the tech features via a highly intuitive infotainment screen that will respond to your every need. The sunroof and spacious interior make it great for the whole family to enjoy a summer road trip or weekend getaway to the beach. The front area of the bonnet contains the air conditioning vent and luggage compartment while the back area has space for three air vents. The three- and four-door microbus can hold as many as seven passengers. Upfront, the driver has easy access to all the tech via the dash, which contains the signature ID light tech that will illuminate with various navigation guides, an automated voice assistant, and GPS. The second-row seats can be folded to form cool tables, turning your bus' interior into a mini living room. Among other things, this makes it perfect for overnighters, beach trips, and tailgaters. That weird steering wheel First, let's talk about the steering wheel's weird shape. Its oblong and curvy rectangular shape is like nothing we've seen before but it contains many needed controls. This makes it a great space-saving piece of technology because it reserves room on the dash so the driver feels comfortable and focused with all tasks. The spoke-free wheel, trimmed with upscale leather, is like an interactive touchpad, a touch-sensitive steering wheel that allows the driver to operate the drive-in various modes. Among other things, you can operate on-and-off signals and interact with various menu functions. The outer edge of the touchpad on the steering wheel contains a cool-looking honeycomb-like light signature. That battery with rapid charging The 48kWh – 111kWh battery pack sits in the middle of the chassis platform and combines with two motors at both axles. The folks at VW say it can fully charge in just a half-hour. The microbus is said to have an impressive range of about 342 miles. And the total system has an output of 275kW. There are even 230 volts available for using power tools. The ID Buzz is also equipped with solar panels on the roof for an extra charge. This guarantees that the Microbus can still run for about 10 miles if the owner has neglected to charge it. And we are told it can get from zero to 60 in a not-too-shabby 5.2 seconds and reach a top speed of 100 mph. Clearly, not your grandpa’s microbus. Eventually it will be self-driving The ID.Buzz will eventually come with an automated drivetrain that pulls the steering wheel into the dashboard James Bond-like after being enabled. This is all enabled by on-board sensors and cameras to ensure a safe and comfortable driving experience for you and your passengers. The coming ID BUZZ is said to be the first fully autonomous multi-purpose vehicle. A slight push on the steering wheel makes it retract and merge into the instrument panel, switching the I.D. BUZZ from manual control to the fully autonomous “I.D. Pilot” mode that could make it into production by 2025. Jan 9, 2017, according to Volkswagen. According to Motor1.com website: “In this mode, the wheel is decoupled from the steering gear via a newly developed steering column system. The ambient lighting then switches from white light (“Drive”) to mood lighting that is warm and relaxed. At the same time, the distribution of ambient lighting is extended to the rear seating area. Simultaneously, the status of the I.D. BUZZ can be seen at all times on the tablet and the augmented reality head-up display." Volkswagen User-ID The ID.Buzz even knows who will be at the wheel, thanks to the “Volkswagen User-ID." This means you have an individual profile that stores the personal seat and air conditioning settings, your favorite music, the settings of the sound system as well as exterior sound and the navigation system configuration. Lighting is also recorded as are contacts. And best of all this exact profile can be retrieved securely via the cloud. The high-tech microbus also recognizes which person is getting into the car or wants to take the steering wheel at any given time via the authorized user’s smartphone—the Digital Key. As soon as you or that other person approach the bus, the sensor surfaces for opening the door light up. If the person’s hand is close to the surface, that individual door will be opened. According to VW: By using the Volkswagen User-ID and a relevant smartphone app, passengers can also control infotainment functions and input destinations into the navigation system as needed. The route will then be shown on a tablet. Affordable EVs are quite expensive and huge numbers of American consumers are yet to embrace them. But VW is trying to overcome this issue by offering a competitive pricing range for their ID range: Possibly as low as $35,000 to $45,000. And you get a lot for your money. Along with everything else we've already mentioned you can expect the Microbus to have primary navigation and connectivity options as well as VW's progressive car tech. Taken together with the roomy interior, the configurable cabin, and plenty of savings on maintenance and fuel thanks to it being an EV - not to mention its beneficial impact on global warming - the new ID Buzz adds up to long-term fun and savings for you and your family. Check out our latest VW inventory for sale!

Chrome car wrapping may have peaked in the early 2,000s but when you scroll through the internet you might experience a nagging sense that it’s poised for a comeback. Nothing about chrome car wrapping is understated. And it may even be considered bad taste. But it’s still happening, even today. And if you long for that metallic shine and perhaps a blingy personalized color, chrome wrapping may be exactly what you are craving. Just don’t ask your dealership to do it. It’s not an actual thing among auto manufacturers. And one downside is that you might be pulled over by the cops more frequently due to its reflectivity. So what, exactly is a chrome car wrap? more A chrome wrap is actually a kind of vinyl wrap that gives your car’s exterior a glossy, reflective, and yes, metallic, look, kind of like you dipped your entire car in hot metal. Think Donald Trump’s penthouse interior with more color choices than gold. Chrome car wraps are thin but generally considered durable (especially by those who install them) and there are currently four top brands to choose from: Avery, Oracle, 3M, Rwraps, and WrapStyle. If you don’t find anything you like there, you can also opt for metalized and polyester films, according to the Topmarq blog. Such alternatives are not used as full car wraps. Instead, they can be employed for covering smaller parts of the car and creating special custom graphics that you choose. But let’s go back to chrome wraps, which allow you to choose from a seemingly endless rainbow of colors: Anything from the more “staid” black, gold and silver to flaming red or pink. (Who doesn’t love a metallic pink Land Rover? Or a glossy pink VW?) And of course, it’s going to cost you. For a sedan expect to pay up to $8,000. Larger cars like a Bentley or Rolls will run you $12,000 or more. So what are the pros and cons? Pros You will always make an entrance. There is nothing subtle about how your car will look once you chrome wrap it. In fact, everyone will stop and stare, gape-mouthed, as you drive by. It might help to prevent scratches. According to proponents, a wrap will actually protect your original paint job in the same way a high-quality synthetic wax does. (Not sure the folks at Rolls would agree with this but we’re just passing along some info from the pro-wrap world). So ostensibly you are preventing nicks and scratches from rock chips, branches, and debris. They can last several years. Drop a chrome wrap over that Bentley and you might not have to change it for five or six years. Imagine the impression you can make in that time frame! And, for better or worse, you will make an impression. The Cons It’s not cheap. As we already mentioned a glossy metallic wrap for your ride can set you back $6,000 to $8,000 or more depending on the size of the vehicle and the scope of the project. It’s difficult to maintain. The wrap may be susceptible to heat and cold so your car may have to be stored in a temperature-controlled environment, which can add extra cost. It’s a little tacky for most tastes. Despite the fact that you might think it looks cool, many others do not think a chrome wrap looks cool. In fact, you might be perceived as a bit out of touch if you drive around in a gold-plated car. We suggest sticking with the colors provided by your luxury car’s configurator or a tasteful tone available at your dealership. But there’s no accounting for taste…

It’s been called the Year of the EV but is 2022 really the best time to buy an electric vehicle? Let’s take a look at the facts. With so many new luxury EVs and hybrids coming on the market, from sedans to SUVs this is a big year for plug-in fully electric vehicles. So why buy an electric vehicle? more For starters, they’re good for the environment. You want to help the planet. The good news is that if you drive an EV, unlike gas-powered cars, you are putting out zero emissions into the atmosphere. Those emissions are part of what contributes to climate change. So, it's a fact that EVs are responsible for less pollution overall than conventional gas-powered vehicles despite the fact that cumulative environmental impact will vary depending on the source of electricity, of course. Electric vehicles of today are super fast. That's because that electric motor puts out all of its available torque instantly - and continuously. Especially when it comes to luxury or sports EVs. Many luxury electric vehicles can now get you to 60 mph in as little as 3.0 seconds! (Or less if you are talking something like the Porsche Taycan). Additionally, performance can be better. The W battery pack is normally mounted beneath the passenger compartment so your EV has a lower center of gravity that contributes to quick cornering abilities you would only see in a sports car under most circumstances. Yes, upfront costs can be high compared to a car with a conventional gasoline-powered engine. But over time high-end EVs are easier on your wallet. Taken together, that means that a growing number of potential car buyers are weighing whether it's time to buy their first electric vehicle. Lower fuel costs are a big benefit. Charging an EV at home can work out to be much cheaper than paying for gas every week – especially as gas prices are going up over time in recent months. And, as an added benefit, EVs don’t need all the maintenance of gas-powered vehicles. In fact, they only require an estimated one-third of the maintenance. That means one-third of the cost! No fluid and filter changes or tune-ups. Nor do they need new spark plugs, hoses or belts, etc. You're only required to do things like rotate the tires and replace windshield wipers while checking brake pads - plus a few more routine service items. Additionally, there's still that one-time $7,500 federal tax credit for people buying electric vehicles. The Biden administration has proposed extending the credits for all automakers and even increasing them depending on where a vehicle is built and whether union labor is involved. Several states, including California, offer incentives for EV buyers and those who lease an EV. The California Clear Fuel Reward Gives you Yet Another Incentive to Buy Electric in 2022 Did you know you can save big on your EV purchase when you buy an eligible EV? And you may be able to combine that with existing incentives announced in the past several years. The California Clean Fuel Reward (CCFR) is now available to anyone who buys or leases a new electric vehicle with a battery capacity greater than 5 kWh. While there are no income or location restrictions within California, you have to register your electric car in California and you must live there. The goal of the California Clean Fuel Reward is to put more electric vehicles on the streets for a carbon-neutral future. Carbon neutrality means having a balance between emitting carbon and absorbing carbon from the atmosphere. It is essential to reduce carbon emissions in order to reach a state of climate neutrality. It’s easy to obtain the reward. When you buy or lease an EV at an enrolled retailer in California, the retailer will simply include the reward in the transaction at the point of sale. The customer does not need to provide any paperwork or fill out any forms. Additionally, Pacific Gas and Electric Company and other electric utilities have teamed up with the California Air Resources Board to offer the reward, which is even offered on a sliding scale depending on your car battery size. Discounts of up to $1,500 are offered on cars with larger batteries that carry a bigger charging capacity. And, the incentive is also available on leased electric vehicles. Only vehicles purchased or leased from approved participating retailers are eligible. If you purchased your vehicle before your retailer was approved in the program or if you did not purchase at a participating retailer, you can visit your electric utility’s website or search Additional Incentives because you may still be eligible for rewards. You can view additional CCFR program rules here. “The goal of the program is to accelerate the number of electric vehicles on California’s roads and highways,” said CARB Vice-Chair Sandy Berg. “The instant point-of-sale price reduction of up to $1,500 will help make these ultra-clean cars more affordable, especially for low-income families or those living in disadvantaged communities.” So far, more than 20 cars from 15 manufacturers are eligible for the reward including 2021 models eligible to receive the full $1,500. Moreover, the CCFR can be combined with existing post-sale federal, state and local incentives. These include the Clean Vehicle Rebate Project, Clean Cars 4 All, and the Clean Vehicle Assistance Program. Together that can potentially save you $10,000 on your EV purchase. It’s a good time to buy electric! PG&E’s EV Savings Calculator helps customers who are considering purchasing or leasing an EV to compare cars and evaluate total cost of ownership of an EV compared to gas-powered cars. The tool provides customers with a personalized recommendation that includes estimated costs, savings, and rebates or incentives of up to approximately $10,000. Additionally, the EV Savings Calculator allows customers to explore EV rate options available to them for residential charging and find public charging stations in their area. Since launching two years ago, the tool has helped more than 350,000 users calculate their savings. Make sure you check out our luxury EV car inventory.