TechNotes: Is a Car Driving Your Thoughts?

My daughter just turned 15 and already she’s talking about getting her driver’s permit.  Wow.  There’s something about your child driving a car (eventually) on her own that really wakes you up to the fact that one day she will not be living at home with us.  She has three years to go then she’s off to college.

Rather than face the truth (that she’s getting ready to drive and is more independent), I decided to think instead about getting a new car, after she’s been driving awhile.  That way she can drive my current car, a 2009 red Ford Edge, and I’ll have an excuse to buy a new one.

So I’ve been doing a little research online and in person and thought I’d share with you what kinds of cars and technology a tech mom looks for. As you can imagine, the technology is very important, but so is innovation.

I am not much for fancy suped-up cars.  I love the look but they are not worth the price.  However, when Tesla mentioned it was coming out with its Model 3 in 2016, I suddenly became interested.  Starting at only $35k as compared to $80k and up for the other models, I went to their website to choose my options to see how much it would cost.  It came in around $50k.  Bummer.

I recently visited Tesla in Pasadena, CA to see their cars.  They were beautiful, but of course, there was no model 3 in the showroom, they are only available via special order.

I think Tesla lures you in their showrooms with the Model 3 only to intrigue you with their other more expensive models. 

Both the S and X models were stunning, but quite frankly, some of the technology features Tesla didn’t offer I could get on a less expensive car, like a Ford (like AC seats).

A Future Car Driving Experience! 

Later, online I stumbled upon the VW ID Buzz.  Remember the old and iconic VW Buss?  Well, they are bringing it back big time for a new generation.  Wow, now this is the kind of innovation that excites me. Take a look at this video, you’ll love this Buzz.

The seats move on tracks and can be configured to face each other, turn into beds, or folded down for more storage.  The sunroof extends the whole way across the buss, and the steering wheel tucks in.  Now this looks like a great car driving experience!

Available in 2022, the VW ID Buzz is a beauty to behold.  No waiting lists are upon on their website yet.

Of course, I can’t wait that long for a new car as my daughter will need a car to use sooner than 2002, after all, she graduates high school in 2021.

I just love the panoramic sunroof view on this VW Atlas – from the front all the way back to the 3rd row!

In the meanwhile, I think I found another option.  It’s another VW product called the VW Atlas. It seats up to 7 people, has a panoramic sunroof, heated and circulated seats, up to 3 zone climatic controls, a driver digital cockpit, a 6.5″ Color touchscreen, numerous cameras, sensors, and assists to count…and up to 17 cupholders if you need them!

Too many features to list!  And get this, yellow is a standard color (though hard to find)!  I remember wanting a yellow car when I was in my 20’s and I was discouraged because I was told that yellow cars don’t resell well.  I think my time has come!  Take a look at the new VW Atlas if you’re looking for an SUV carryover car with lots of room and flexibility.

I will continue my search and perhaps test car driving, after all, I do have some time.  Whether you in the search for a car now or not, buckle your seatbelts, there’s much change coming down the road in the way we will drive, providing a safer and more convenient car driving experience.