DMV gave us almost a year to prepare for the hands-free law passed and set to go into effect July 1, 200. The one thing that made many scratch their head was the grey area on texting. The law essentially left texting while driving a grey are left to the discretion of the officer to enforce. It turns out DMV realized texting while driving was a bigger issue than they thought.

As of January 1, 2009, a new law will be in effect to prohibit any two way communication while driving. This apply to instant messaging, texting and e-mailing while operating a vehicle.

As stated by DMV on their website:

"Starting January 1, 2009 a new law will go into effect where writing, sending, or reading a text-based communication while driving will be against the law for all drivers in California.

Violating this law is punishable by a base fine of $20 for a first offense and $50 for each subsequent offense. With the addition of penalty assessments, fines can be more than triple the base fine amount."

Of course, it would have made sense to add this into the original law but better late than never. I suggest changing your ways sooner than later as January 1 is only a few short months away.

Oh and for those of you that refuse to buy a Bluetooth, get off the phone! Setting it on your chest or holding it away from your head on speaker phone doesn't cut it.

As always, happy motoring,

Lance

Yes, I am still alive! Sorry to all my dedicated readers that have wondered of my whereabouts. I'm happy to say that my absence is not in vain. My spare time has been devoted to focusing on another side of the online evolution, webcast. Many of you are finding yourselves watching more video online. This has become a growing way for people to gather information rather it be about news, how-tos or reviews.

Until recently I only found myself in front of the camera once every several months. traditionally I teamed up with my friend and fellow blogger Jason love for the LA Auto Show or covered track events. Well as times change, so does our strategy to bring our audience what they want.

We will soon be launching our all new VCSWheels website. The new format is closer associated to the more recent "web 2.0" style of sites (peer to peer). Besides hosting my blog, I will also be covering local car shows, fun runs and doing reviews of the latest autos. For you the consumers, we will have local car, motorcycle and boat forums. I pushed for this due to the fact that I saw a need for a forum-style site to keep up on all the local gearhead related events. Likewise we will have break out areas for local car clubs, car shows and fun runs.

Again, my apologies for being M.I.A. I promise the new site and content will be well worth the wait. Already we have three videos ready to rock; two auto reviews and coverage of the 23rd Annual Westlake Car Show. We will also be hosting a new car review everyday of the LA Auto Show later in November.

Sincerely,

Lance

Link to LA Auto Show site (Nov. 21-30).

LA Auto Show.

Past videos:

'08 LA Auto Show video

'07 LA Auto Show video

The automotive market is in obvious change right now and has been for the past several years. We have seen the evolution of autos more so in the past twenty than the prior eighty years. New categories such as the SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle) and the CUV (Crossover Utility Vehicle) are two such categories.

Honda CR-V

Many are just now noticing the class known as CUVs. This is made up of such autos as the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Edge and Chevy HHR. I recently realized how much I like this class of automobile. After test driving a CR-V, I realized what makes them so popular. You have the ride height closer to an SUV yet the comfort from a car chassis and gas mileage of one as well in many cases. Even the all new Ford Flex boarders this class in my book being that it's based on the Volvo XC90 chassis and gets similar mileage, along with having a front-wheel drive configuration.

Ford Edge

So where is the market stacking up in these respective classes. Well according to the numbers recently released from my friends at SEMA, some are doing better than others. One thing we know is people are waking up to the realization that gas in America will likely never be in the $2-3 range again. Not that I'm surprised as we have been paying less than any of the first-world countries. Do remember that if you have a soccer team as a family then you are sure to find excellent deals on Expeditions, Yukons, Sequoias and alike right now.

Notice that compared to popular belief, all manufacturers are suffering. People's lack of love for the large SUV does not segregate by "domestic" or "import". If anything I see larger decreases on models with worse fuel economy. For example; a friend owns a FJ Cruiser and he was floored when he realized the best he could pull was 15mpg. Likewise I had a friend that was amazed he averaged upwards of 19mpg from his Jeep Liberty.

Now we see the sales trend of the CUV class. Some have lost a bit of ground while others are seeing exponential growth 2007 to 2008. We must also factor that some models are new to market while others have been available for a few years now.

As I have said before, the need for a vehicle to handle rough roads, larger cargo loads and passenger space will never change. These class of autos will be here until autos go extinct. All I ask is that you consider your car buying on necessity over desire. If you live alone in the city, a Hummer might not be the wisest choice. There are easier ways to stand out in the crowd than to have the "I don't care what gas costs" mentality.

Knowledge is key, know your carbon footprint and what you can do to shrink it.

Happy Motoring,

Lance

The end of a wonderful season is among us. Traditionally we recognize Labor Day as the last big weekend of Summer where I'm from. While this marks the end of kid's freedom from school and fun times at the lake, it's not so the end for car shows. I have listed a few events this weekend to accommodate your staycation plans.

The top of my list is the 15th Annual Red Line Corvette Car Show

This show is the top of my list in part because it's for a good cause. They're working in conjunction with Thousand Oaks Police Department to bring this, the 15th annual show on September 14th (Sunday). This event helps support the T.O. Police Explorer Program and Hospice of Conejo Valley.

They will have entertainment, food & drink as well as vendors on hand.

For registration and additional information click here: Red Line Corvettes Car Show

This weekend Ventura Village Rods will be hosting the Harbor 18 Car Show. This show is also on Sunday and starts at 8am. Parking is open on the grass to the first 250 cars and entries must be 1975-model year or older. Entry fee is $20 and proceeds go to local charities.

This event will have local vendors, food, prize drawings and more!

Find out more here: Ventura Vintage Rods Show

Last is the All-Chevy Car Show in Burbank hosted by The San Fernando Valley Region of VCCA. This event will be held Sunday on Olive St. in Burbank.

For more information click here: SFV All-Chevy Car Show.

Enjoy,

Lance

Many moons ago I remember summer days of riding a mini bike along the old railroad tracks. It was a simple means of transportation, a tubular frame with Briggs & Stratton lawnmower engine. Yes, those were the days when helmets were optional and gas was cheap.

Recently I came across something that was somewhat f a throwback to my youth. It's called a Ruckus and at first sight it looks like a barely legal mini-bike. Well that's exactly what it is! They deliberately gave this rugged scooter a bare-bones look to draw the attention of the tuner scene. This strategy has worked. Many of us that don't care for the look or stigma of your average scooter. This ride balanced a look between rugged and hipness. It carries a 4 stroke, 49cc motor and starts out at $2300.

Now machismo lacking aside, I dig the retro scooter rather it be a Lambretta or contempo Vespa. I wouldn't trade my Yamaha R1 in for these smaller two-wheel options, but do think they are "cute". They are the ideal means of transportations in most European and third-world countries. Places where our ego doesn't interfere with our choices in transportation.

Scooter Riding Pros:

Imagine getting anywhere from 45-100 MPG!
Easy parking in densely populated cities and neighborhoods.
Very low maintenance and annual operation costs.

Scooter Cons:

Not so ideal as a grocery getter.
Unsafe and hassle to utilize in rainy conditions.
Forget it if your are going on a date or have a family.

I chalk anything on two-wheels as a great second source for transportation. It's a good way to offset that SUV in your driveway for runs to the gym or beach. They are also excellent for big city and college campus living. either way, there is only a certain time in ones life that a scooter makes sense.

Happy Motoring,

Lance

It has been several months since my Site of the Month lists. I decided to compile a few for you and briefly explain the benefits of each. Some are just fun for car enthusiasts to visit while others are full of facts on cars and car-related topics.

My first site of choice for information on everything from cell phone law to ordering vanity plates is DMV.Org I utilize this site for several DMV tasks. The California government is saving money and the environment by offering simple tasks like license renewal and release of liability online.

A new site my friend Mike Sheets of Vista Honda shared yesterday was GetNitrogen.org. We watched a cool video by Jay Leno on the benefits of utilizing nitrogen in passenger car tires. If you have a few minutes, I recommend checking this video out.

Last is facts on Fuel. I like this site because it shares information on the top fuels being utilized by the mainstream automotive industry today. Of course you all know I'm a big fan of clean diesel.

Ride On,

Lance

Due to the economic climate in the U.S. over the past several months, auto sales have slowed. This has effected not only the Big three, but most import and foreign owned manufacturers as well. Truck/SUV plants from Ford to Toyota are being temporarily closed or converted to small vehicles manufacturing facilities. While this is bad for the manufacturer, this is good for those that still need a truck or SUV for transportation. Rather you have a large family, own a commercial business or farm, there will always be a need for the larger vehicle to do certain tasks.

While out in the field visiting clients I have seen some of the best deals ever on large vehicles. From one dealer offering $15,000 off a new Dodge, to others boasting 0% for 72mo. and more. The one thing to keep in mind is buying what works for you. If you plan on pulling a six-horse trailer, a 1500 won't cut it. factor your actual needs before starting the shopping process and you are sure to save yourself more time in the long run.

Another thing to keep in mind is the new MPG ratings by the EPA. After decades of using an outdated, unrealistic rating system, the EPA woke up and made changes. The window stickers starting on '08 models forward reflect a much more accurate idea of expected fuel consumption. This is in part due to the introduction of real world conditions in the actual testing of the vehicles fuel use.

Will large vehicles such as trucks and SUVs ever go away? I doubt it, not as long as large families stay wise on using one vehicle to get from A to B instead of two. Likewise, I doubt my general contractor will roll up to his job site in a Civic! One thing I hope to see is those purchasing larger vehicles just "because" fades away. If you can afford it, now is the time to buy, rather it be a car or a home for that matter.

To see a comparison of old and new MPG EPA ratings visit:
New MPG Ratings

This site will allow you to compare old vehicle ratings to new.

Happy Motoring,

Lance

Being in the business, I always hear my clients speak of the competition. One thing I heard not so long ago was that it takes more combined energy to create a Prius than a Hummer. It has been claimed as an urban myth by most groups yet I wanted to find out where this rumor came from.

Well, I did my homework online and found the source of this story. It came from an article put out by The Recorder, the central Connecticut State University paper. Before even reading the article I knew this claim would have something to do with the batteries for the Prius. Just my lifetime exposure to autos and years of automotive experience told me that the only thing really different between your typical auto and a hybrid is the electronics, generator and batteries.

As figured, the claim that the Prius pollutes more is based on the production and transport of nickel for the on-board rechargeable battery pack. The nickel is actually mined and smelted in Sudbury, Ontario (Canada) by Inco. The nickel is then shipped to a refinery in Europe. From there, the nickel goes to China to produce nickel foam. Then, it goes to Japan. In Japan Panasonic manufactures the battery itself, then it's off to the Toyota plant for final vehicle assembly. Lastly the cars are shipped to the United States, completing the world tour required for a Prius battery.

The main source of the information for The Recorder's story was sourced from CNW Marketing. This company compiles the information on combined energy it takes to build an auto. this includes; electrical, fuel, transportation, materials (metal, plastic, etc) and many other factors over the expected lifetime of a vehicle. In recent years the report from CNW has been contradicted although I still think they have an interesting point.

Read more about the controversy at Wikipedia.com

What about the claimed 60mpg Toyota said the car got until the new EPA standards came out? We now know that the car averages closer to 45mpg (combined city/hwy). Which isn't so much more than the Chevy Aveo or Honda Fit, yet a Prius costs twice as much with common mark ups.Let's look at the argument of fuel cost savings.

If you drive a Prius15,000 miles a year, which is now the national average, this means your annual fuel cost is $1,082 (based off $3.25p/gal and 45mpg avg.). At a 35mpg average your annual fuel cost is $1,392. This means the fuel difference is $309. That's great, not as much as I thought but okay. Does this saving justify the premium most pay for a Prius? Not in my opinion if your savings over ten years is all of $3,000. Now I know Prius owners far and wide will tell me they get 50+ mpg on any given road trip, which is fine. the thing I want to know is where do these hazardous batteries go once their life cycle ends?

Do your homework before you buy. I'm not saying Hybrids aren't neat but there are other options if saving gas and the environment is your priority. There are several PZEV cars on the market now. Even non-PZEV cars with great gas mileage may be greener for both the environment and your pocket book.

Knowledge is key,

Lance

Side note: Is it just me or are Prius owners always speeding? I get passed by more Prius than BMW's on the 101!

I know what your thinking, "another blog about gas and mpg numbers?". My answer is yes, yet another blog about fuel consumption and such. Many of you have been calculating this figure for years, while to others it's a whole new concept. This post is more so for those not "in the know".

The reason I wanted to talk a little more about mpg is this; I am meeting people that still don't know what kind of mileage they get per gallon. I think this knowledge will make many think twice about two trips to the store, or letting the car run with the A/C on while waiting for the kids.

It's simple to do if you follow these steps;

1. When filling up your car , reset your odometer
2. Save your receipt from your fill up.
3. Own a calculator or use the one you didn't know you had on your cell phone.

Take the mileage from your vehicles and divide the amount of gallons you just put in your tank.

Some cars do the math for you in the OBC (On Board Computer)

Example; My last mileage prior to fill up was 293 miles. I added a total of 16.5 gallons of fuel to the tank. Simply divide the mileage by the gallons and poof...my mpg was 17.75.

getting near 18mpg out of a mid-sized truck isn't bad. Also unlike many Toyota trucks, I don't need to use 91 octane. With prices today the difference between 87 octane and 91 octane can mean $5 per tank! I trend even better on road trips coming in at about 20mpg.

The things I did to get the best possible mileage out of my little 5 cylinder was; add a high-flow air filter, open up the exhaust a little and keep the tires at proper inflation. Those little things make a difference in the long run.

Take a minute next time your at the pump and do the math. You may find that your mileage is considerably lower than expected. Feel free to send any questions you may have in reference to improving your mpg.

Happy motoring,

Lance

Well, I'm getting 40+ mpg today! I felt so inclined to ride the street bike and do my part on shrinking my carbon footprint just a bit more. Besides riding the bike a few days a week, I also now commute with my respective print reps to see clients at least twice a week. Every little bit helps not only the environment, but my wallet as well.

To some the high gas prices is a lifestyle change. I have a friend that now uses the metro to commute to/from work. The fuel savings is fair but he says the time savings is what made the case. Instead of pulling his hair out sitting behind the wheel, he now spend his commute time to read a book or surf the net.

I truly feel that mass transit is the wave of the future. Companies like Amtrak and Greyhound have struggled ever since the "me" era of the 80's. Thankfully they haven't gone away all together. These forms of mass transit may not find the full glory days they new yesteryear, but a second wind is definitely plausible.

You know I love to do math and give a specific example of justification, so here goes. I often go back to San Luis Obispo to see friends. Anytime possible I have always taken the train. One reason is the awesome scenary, the other was time to relax. It's about 240 miles round trip from my home in Camarillo to downtown SLO. At $4.50 p/gal for gas and an average mile-per-gallon of 20, It cost approximately $54. The actual fair for the trip is $64. Now, I know what your thinking; "Lance that doesn't sound like a better deal?!". If I factor in the wear and tear on my car, I think the additional $10 is well worth it.

Stop and think of what you can do to make a change. Give your car a tune up, take the train, ride a bike. Remember that traveling wisely makes a difference for everyone.

Happy commuting,

Lance

Sites:

www.Metrolinktrains.com

The season of shows is among us people. Rather your into a loud, obnoxious HD fatboy or a Mastercraft ski boat, this is the season for you. Who would think this country is on hard times what with all the toys and shows that come with them in California.

Why are we so seasonal with our hot rod shows and alike? After all, we are blessed with perfect weather over 10 months out of the year. Either way, I'm finding myself having to decide between a boat show in Ventura or a car show in old town Camarillo this weekend. These decisions definitely help keep me from expensive road trips and getaways.

Like most, I also feel the squeeze of a tough economy and feel the need to watch my spending. If you're in the same boat, take in a local show. Entries to events are often free or very inexpensive. We have a list of all current events in our Wheels section of the paper every Saturday. They can also be found on our Star cars site at: http://cars.venturacountystar.com simply look under the Car Club News link at the lower left.

I will be assisting in hosting the 1st Annual Ventura Motorsports Gathering this Sunday (July 20th). Instead of the classic hot rod show , This show is focusing on the "driver's car". Come out and say hello and enjoy entertainment and fine autos.

Events for this weekend include:

The Boat Show is at Channel Islands Harbor
Show times are Fri. noon-7p. Sat. 10a-7p. Sun 10a-5p
Visit www.ci-boatshow.com

Events set for July 20th include:

Jalopy Joe's monthly Car Show
Noon-3p at the shop in Ventura
1419 E. Santa Clara St., Ventura

Cheers,

Lance

Recently I had a conversation with a coworker about getting away to Vegas. With the cost of gas today, it's no wonder many are asking what is cheaper for travel. I have Vegas trips down to a routine. My family has a home there, so I'm in Sin city several times a year.

My last getaway to Vegas was on June 5th. I decided to be the guinea pig among my friends and try the new direct flight from Santa Barbara to Vegas with Allegiant Air. Round trip was only $98 with all taxes, now that makes it worth flying. So when is it not worth jet setting?

Let's take a few common mpg (miles per gallon) averages and do the math. Many autos float around the 20mpg whereas others are closer to 30mpg. My truck averages 20mpg, From door to door, it is 314 miles. So, it takes me 15.7 gallons to get to the Vegas house. At $ 4.50 per gallon, my cost for fuel round trip comes to $142. For those of you with smaller autos averaging 30mpg; you would use about 10.5 gallons, costing you $94. Now since it was just me traveling, it made more sense to fly.

Some use the time excuse for taking one form of travel or the other. Both are close when factoring a trip to Vegas. The drive time (without traffic) is about 5 hour's non-stop. If I consider; drive time to airport, security/check-in, flight, rental car pick up, and driving to the home, the time comes to about 4 hours.

I tell my friends this; I rather sit and relax in the airport or on a plane than look out the window at desert for several hours. That and I don't feel the drive is worth the gamble. It has literally taken me up to 9 hours to get home before. My time is worth more than that and the great gas mileage goes out the window as well.

Do the math before your next big trip. Plan ahead, some flight specials are only available months in advance. Factor the amount of people traveling as well. With anymore than 2 people, chances are the drive will save you hundreds of dollars. Not to mention there is something about packing in a car with friends for hours on end.

Happy travels,

Lance

Here are two of the least expensive airlines for local travel to Las Vegas:
www.allegiantair.com
www.southwest.com

Here is a great site for both flight and package deals:
www.cheapoair.com