Happy New Year from Carmoza!

Have fun tonight and be safe!

Eco-sports car, schmeco sports car

AutoGuide's Derek Kreindler noted this week that, according to a BMW source, BMW's "newly trademarked “i” Series will be used to denote the new range of “green” cars, with the i8 acting as the range-topping halo vehicle."

But the BMW Blog casts some doubt on that, arguing that the EfficientDynamics launch is still 3 years off, and that they haven't even decided on a name for the car yet.

Is it wrong that the thing I noticed the most is the crazy pattern on the car? An exotic car like that would definitely demand enclosed transport if it was being shipped, don't you think?

The Auto Industry in America: California

The Auto Industry in America is a Carmoza series highlighting the history of the auto industry in each state and their contributions to the industry as a whole over the years.


CALIFORNIA

• QUICK FACTS
  
  
• California is the 3rd largest state in the United States and home to more people than any other state.
• Its geography ranges from coastal forests to dry arid deserts to the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
• The state has the highest and lowest points in the U.S.
• California was relatively unpopulated for many years, but an influx of settlers and explorers arrived in the mid-19th century after gold was discovered. The California Gold Rush caused small villages of tents and shacks to grow exponentially into the cities we know today.

THE AUTO INDUSTRY IN CALIFORNIA

There are several automobile manufacturers in the state of California that have built production facilities for various car models.

Toyota owns a factory in the Bay Area that produces Corollas, Tundras and, until the recent abandonment of the brand by General Motors, the Pontiac Vibe.

This factory is one of the larger facilities in the state of California and is responsible for the production and distribution of hundreds of thousands of vehicles in the United States and worldwide.

The plant recently came dangerously close to being closed, but state legislators are currently fighting to keep one of the state’s last remaining automobile production facilities open.

PHOTO CREDIT: PosseList.com

How to look for a used car

If you're on the hunt for a new used car like me, finding the right one with relatively low mileage that's good on gas and that's not too costly are just some of the things you're looking out for.

Used Cars Online's Blog, the official blog for used car enthusiasts, offers some solid tips on how to go about your used car search.

Here are just a few. For more details, check out the article HERE.

• Figure out what cars are on your list on car websites, like Edmunds, for specs and valuable user reviews. (Those'll give you a good idea about problems the model typically has.)
• Figure out a price range given the mileage. (A well-maintained 100,000-mile car is better then a 40,000-mile car that's been poorly maintained and roughly driven.)
• Become familiar with trim levels. Some makes offer all inclusive options while other makes option every component or offer "packages" with sets of options.
• Don't judge a book by it's cover. A dirty car can often be a good deal; it's easy to make a lemon pretty clean.
• Test, test, test. Test drive a car at all speeds, stop and go, highway speed et al. Take the transmission through all gears, test the brakes etc. Examine the frame of the car; bends are bad. Look closely at the paint, are some spots a little different in gloss or color?
• When making an offer, always start low. There might be reasons to justify your price (bald tires, power windows slow going up, near term repairs you'll have to do).
• Factor in car transport. If the car's in another state, it might be a good idea to ask the seller if transport is included in the sale. If you're arranging it yourself, having the car shipped to you might be a better bet than picking it up and driving it home yourself. For a free quote from Carmoza, call 1-888-708-0880 or visit our website today!

Photo Credit: BMW Towson

Is There Really Such A Thing As Last-Minute Car Shipping?

If you need to relocate your family and possessions unexpectedly due to a military relocation, you’ll have to act quickly to find a car shipper to transport your vehicle to your new station on time.

Car transportation usually requires a couple of weeks of scheduling and preparation, but there are instances where companies can accommodate car transportation at the very last minute.

Of course, if you’re looking to go to, say, Miami in early December, there might be a waiting list, but in the off-season, car shipping can be quickly and conveniently arranged for military personnel.

The best way to find a company that can accommodate car transportation at the last-minute is to call around to a number of car shippers that regularly cover your area.

For example, if you call Carmoza to enquire about car transportation at short notice, our excellent customer service representatives will do their best to meet your needs and answer all your questions about last-minute car transportation.

Even if you’re pressed for time, it’s important to remember all the important details about car transportation, such as liability policies and insurance coverage.

Photo Credit

Merry Christmas from Carmoza!

Peace, love and happiness this season and always!

Photo Credit: wdexpo.org

Considerations for international auto shipping

Military families often have to move to a foreign country because of military relocation.

It can be a daunting task to move your entire life overseas and when it comes to automobile shipping, it’s a good idea to contact some auto shipping companies with extensive experience in international automobile shipping for military personnel.

International automobile shipping companies have sound contracts with companies that run freight ships to transport cars across the ocean. They know which companies to trust when shipping any type of car and how to provide extra service for military families.

International auto shippers instruct you how to prepare your vehicle for international transport. In addition, international automobile shipping companies understand the process of importing vehicles to a foreign country and help customers with all necessary paperwork and procedures.

International automobile shipping companies can get your vehicle through customs, but it’s essential to know that you, the owner of the vehicle, are responsible for meeting all requirements and providing the necessary documents.

Automobile shipping companies charge more for international automobile shipping than national car transport, but it’s well worth the costs to have a professional take care of everything for you.

Car buying made a little easier

Back in 2008 when I was on the hunt for a new-to-me car, I looked at magazine listings, on auto listing websites, and checked out dealerships for certified used cars. (I ended up buying one from a dealer.) But I did a lot of the searching and monitoring myself.

Since I'm on the hunt for another new-to-me ride, I stumbled on Car Buyers' Markets' Ad Watcher* e-mail alerts. (Where has it been all my car hunting life?)

It's only available to registered users, but it's a genius of convenience. You fill out your search criteria, click on Ad Watcher, and when new listings are added daily, the ones that match your criteria are sent to your inbox. No need to monitor. How cool is that?

Car Buyers' Market operates in the tri-state New York area, but we all know the Internet changed the car buying game: You can search anywhere in the country online, from private owner to buyer, and then have it shipped to you.

The search continues...

*This is not a paid Car Buyers' Market endorsement

Kari Cobham is the vice president of media and communications for Carmoza--a full service auto transport company founded in 2010 by a team of successful business executives with more than a century of combined experience in the technology, service and automotive industries. Carmoza provides timely and cost-efficient auto transport with unparalleled customer service to both consumers and dealers. Call 1-888-708-0880 for a free quote today.

Auto Industry in America: Wisconsin

The Auto Industry in America is a Carmoza series highlighting the history of the auto industry in each state and their contributions to the industry as a whole over the years.

WISCONSIN

Did you know Carmoza's headquarters is located in Brookfield, Wisconsin. Yeah, we're biased to the state. :-)

QUICK FACTS

- Wisconsin is home to about 5.6 million Wisconsinites.
- Wisconsin was the 30th state admitted to the United States on May 29, 1848.
- The largest and best known city in the state is Milwaukee, but its capital is Madison.
- Wisconsin is famous for its cheese.
- It's second only to California for the production of milk and butter.
- It's also a leading producer of oats, potatoes, cranberries, ginseng, carrots, cherries, and snap beans.
- Food processing companies that have taken up manufacturing in the state: Oscar Mayer, Tombstone Pizza, and Johnsonville Brats.
- Wisconsin is historically a major beer producing state. Miller Brewing Company used to have headquarters there.

THE AUTO INDUSTRY IN WISCONSIN

In Kenosha, American Motors opened in a plant 1902 and continued production until 1988.

Vehicles produced at this iconic plant included the Gremlin, Hornet, Concorde, Spirit, Pacer, and Eagle. Now the plant is called Harborpark development.

The plant today produces Chrysler engines, which is fitting since it is Chrysler that acquired American Motors.

PHOTO CREDIT: Schurmanscheese.com

Winter Driving Safety

Those of us who live in areas with extreme winters know exactly how dangerous the roads can get, especially if you haven’t taken proper winter driving safety precautions.

It’s a hard but true fact that hundreds of people are badly injured or lose their lives each winter because they didn't practice sound winter driving safety precautions.

It might seem intimidating, especially if you’ve just moved to a cold climate, but winter driving safety is more a matter of common sense than anything else. When you take your car for a tune-up, ask your mechanic to prepare your car for winter driving safety.

This includes:

• Getting winter tires
• Testing brakes, motor, transmission and lights to see if they’re functioning properly
• Making sure antifreeze and coolant levels are adequate
• Also look at fluid levels for brakes, steering, and windshield wipers

When you’re on the road:

• Always bring an emergency kit for maximum winter driving safety
• Drive slowly on slippery roads or when there’s low visibility
• Listen to all weather alerts and if there’s a storm, don’t go out unless you have to.

For more information on shipping your car during the winter--a cheaper alternative that'll let you avoid driving on uncertain roads--check with Carmoza on enclosed transport and get a free quote.

Photo Credit: AutoNewsBlog.org

When dealers enroll with Carmoza, dinner's on us

Carmoza Auto Transport is offering dealers a $25 Restaurant.com gift card just for enrolling with Carmoza this holiday season.

With no registration fees or contracts and 30-day net billing terms on all auto transports for approved dealers, enrollment allows dealers to redeem their Restaurant.com gift card at over 15,000 participating restaurants nationwide, as well as premium online partners like LobsterGram, Mrs. Field’s, Boca Java, and many others.

“We really wanted to reward dealers for their business this holiday season and beyond,” said Jeff Sorg, vice president of strategic partnerships at Carmoza.

Dealers can enroll with Carmoza by:

1. Contacting their Regional VP directly HERE

2. Calling 1-888-708-0876

3. Registering at Carmoza’s Dealer Portal HERE

Kia Soul: The new way to roll?

Since October 2008, I've put close to 100,000 miles on my 2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (120-mile daily commute.) Roughly translated? It's almost time to get a new ride.

The dealership-to-dealership hunt alone will be fun!

Anyway, I'm a sports car, two-seater kind of gal, but for some reason the Kia Soul has caught my eye. It's like a more aesthetically-friendly version of the Element, right?

Rzcars.com's Chris Peterson offers a pretty good breakdown of the Soul's features. But I can't wait to physically sit in the driver's seat and take that baby for a, well, roll.

Time will tell if it'll be enough to lure me away from the two-door, Me Ride...

Kari Cobham is the vice president of media and communications for Carmoza--a full service auto transport company founded in 2010 by a team of successful business executives with more than a century of combined experience in the technology, service and automotive industries. Carmoza provides timely and cost-efficient auto transport with unparalleled customer service to both consumers and dealers. Call 1-888-708-0880 for a free quote today.

Winter Tires or Snow Chains?

When you move from Florida to New England, you’re probably not used to driving in the snow.

And if you’re like the rest of us, you’ll want to take the best precautions to ensure your winter driving safety under any weather conditions.

One of the most frequently asked questions about winter driving is whether it’s better to use winter tires or snow chains. The answer isn’t that simple, but there are a few things to consider when making this important choice for winter driving.

Snow chains are much cheaper than winter tires, and provide great traction in all kinds of winter driving conditions, like snow, ice and slush. However, they’re difficult to put on, and can’t be used when winter driving conditions change to dry roads.

Winter tires on the other hand, though more expensive than snow chains, can be used in all types of winter driving—dry or wet. All you have to do is make sure to put them on your car before challenging driving conditions become a problem, and you won’t need to do anything until spring.

No matter which you choose, make sure to make winter driving safety a priority when you’re on the road. Consumer Reports also had a good article today on winter driving.

If you're going far on the road, auto transport is also an option that will help avoid having to drive in snow at all. And in that case, Carmoza would be your best bet. :)

PHOTO CREDIT: Autorevolution.com

Daytona Turkey Run spikes auto shipping to--and now from--Florida, weeks later

Over Thanksgiving weekend, thousands of vendors and visitors gathered in Daytona for the annual Turkey Run—the largest car show and swap meet in the Southeast.

With even more attractions than last year, including a live auto auction, Sebring Raceway’s Racecar Display, and an all new Motorcycle Showcase, the run on auto shipping to Daytona spiked in the weeks leading up to the long awaited event.

And with many vintage car collectors looking to find used parts for their vehicles and even buy entire vehicles, auto shipping companies expect higher than normal demand in the months following the show, too, as buyers rely on auto shipping to get their cars to their locations.

Vintage car dealers and collectors know that auto shipping by a reliable auto shipping company like Carmoza is well worth the money. Rare and often irreplaceable vehicles can be safely transported thanks to dependable auto shipping companies.

Some auto shipping companies also offer sufficient cargo insurance on classic car transport, so your valuable investment is covered while it’s in transit. If you need reliable, dependable auto shipping with the highest quality customer service and classic vehicle expertise, contact Carmoza for a free quote.

Photo Credit: Rendition/Flickr

The Auto Industry in America: Florida

Exciting things are happening in Florida by way of alternative fuel. Keep reading!

The Auto Industry in America is a Carmoza series highlighting the history of the auto industry in each state and their contributions to the industry as a whole over the years.

FLORIDA

QUICK FACTS

- Located in the Southeastern United States, Florida is known for its warm weather and tourist attractions.
- It was admitted as the 27th state after hundreds of years of exploration and colonization.
- The Sunshine State has the longest coastline in the contiguous United States that extends into the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico.
- Florida is a prime target for hurricanes every summer.
- It is also home to the Everglades National Park and many animal species, including alligators and leatherback sea turtles.

THE AUTO INDUSTRY IN FLORIDA

Florida hasn't been a main player in the world of automobile manufacturing, but there've been some auto-related development recently of special interest.

Agri-Source Fuels bought an unused orange juice production plant from Pasco Beverage and has converted it into what will be the nation’s largest production facility for biodiesel.

The alternative fuel will be made from chicken fat and cottonseed oil and converted into as much as 125 million gallons of biodiesel per year.

Agri-Source plans to sell off their product to petroleum distributors, who will in turn blend the biofuel with conventional diesel, making diesel fuel cleaner burning and safer for the environment as well as allowing diesel fuel reserves to last longer than previously possible.

PHOTO CREDIT: Weblantis.org

Vehicle Transport Companies Report that “False Economy” Due To Recession Has Reduced Family Vehicle Moving

According to one of the nation’s leading vehicle transport companies, the demographics of vehicle moving have changed dramatically over the past three years due to the recession.

Though many families are moving to other regions for economic reasons, many aren’t using vehicle moving companies because they believe that driving is cheaper than using vehicle transport.

This unfortunate trend is actually “false economy,” as vehicle transport prices actually work out much lower than the costs of a long road trip with all of its hidden expenses.

Families who drive themselves rather than using vehicle transport often make a “gasoline versus shipping quote” calculation where the price of vehicle transport appears to be higher.

But driving has many hidden costs that can add hundreds of dollars to a relocation estimate, like the days of lost productive time while you’re on the road, the costs of food and lodging, and in worst case scenarios, the costs of out-of-town mechanics.

With these factors in mind, vehicle transport can actually be much less costly for families looking to relocate for economic reasons.

If you’re looking for affordable vehicle transport, request your free quote from Carmoza today. And don't forget to ask about special discounts.

Sports Celebrities Define New Niche In Corporate Vehicle Shipping

Until recently, businesses and corporations were one of the biggest markets for vehicle transport companies. But that's been changing.

More and more sports stars are looking for vehicle transport companies to provide them with high quality services for auto relocation.

Other celebrities like movie stars and musicians employ a reputable carrier company when they need to relocate. But they don’t move around as much as sports stars.

Vehicle transport companies are beginning to recognize the seasonal patterns when their services are in high demand by sport stars.

Because of the regular seasons of soccer, football, basketball, hockey and baseball, sports stars hire vehicle transport companies as they move from place to place for training and competitions, until they have downtime to relax and return home again.

According to a representative of one vehicle transport company, the differences between shipping cars for corporate clients and sports stars lie primarily in the practical details.

Whereas most corporate executives send a delegate to pick up their car after vehicle transport, sports stars most often send somebody they trust, and that can be anyone, from their manager or agent to their chef or maid.

The Auto Industry in America: Texas

The Auto Industry in America is a Carmoza series highlighting the history of the auto industry in each state and their contributions to the industry as a whole over the years.

TEXAS

QUICK FACTS

• Texas was the 28th state to join the United States on December 29, 1845.
• Texas is ranked second in the U.S. in size and population, behind Alaska and California, respectively; just under 24.8 million residents call the state home.
• As a result of its fight for independence from Mexico, Texas adopted the name, The Lone Star State.
• Texas leads the country in livestock and cotton production. Other large industries in the state are fishing and mineral resources.

THE AUTO INDUSTRY IN TEXAS

Arlington Assembly, a General Motors Company plant, has been in production since 1954. The plant currently produces the Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet Suburban, GMC Yukon, GMC Yukon XL, and the Cadillac Escalade.

Toyota Motor Manufacturing is located in San Antonio. The plant manufactures the Tundra full-size pickup and the Tacoma mid-size pickup truck. The plant was built in 2003 and employs about 1,700 people. This plant is Toyota’s newest assembly plant and is currently a $1.5 billion investment.

The Toyota plant in Texas is currently the only one manufacturing the Tundra, since the Toyota plant in Indiana has closed.

Top Tech Innovations in Automobiles

MSN Autos' Jeff Voth is right: Less than 20 years ago, we couldn't imagine dictating directions to our car's navigation system.

But car technology has come a long way in just a short time. Check out some of the latest advancements that are available now if you're thinking of buying a new ride.

Our favorite? Accident avoidance.

Photo Credit: Volvo City Safety

The Auto Industry in America: Pennsylvania

The Auto Industry in America is a Carmoza series highlighting the history of the auto industry in each state and their contributions to the industry as a whole over the years.

PENNSYLVANIA

QUICK FACTS

• Pennsylvania was the second state to join the United States. It became a state on December 12, 1787.
• It has the 6th largest population in the country with 12.6 million residents.
• The Bank of North America in Philadelphia, founded in 1781, became the first nationally chartered bank in the U.S.
• Pennsylvania ranks first in the U.S. in the production of mushrooms and third for Christmas trees.

THE AUTO INDUSTRY IN PENNSYLVANIA

In response to vehicles becoming more reliant on ethanol fuel, Coskata, Inc., opened a plant in Madison, Pennsylvania in 2009 with plans to grow significantly by 2012. As of 2010, the plant produces 50,000 gallons of ethanol per year.

In 1978, Volkswagen opened a plant in Pennsylvania, but the plant closed down in 1988. At this plant in New Stanton, they built Rabbits, Golfs, and Jettas. Volkswagen opening a plant here led the way for Nissan and other Japanese manufacturers to set up assembly plants in the U.S.

The Top 10 American Cars Sold Abroad

American cars aren't just sold domestically. They've been exported all over the world since the early 1900s, while some are built in foreign countries.

MSN Autos' Marc LaChapelle says that's because American cars are associated with "the land of the free and home of the brave."

And he dug up overseas sales numbers to pinpoint which American autos are the most popular abroad.

Is your car on the list?

Photo Credit: General Motors

Audi jumps on the luxury EV market

Many EVs slated for manufacturing or already in the works seem to be targeted for urban driving.

But if you're looking for an alternative ride without sacrificing the luxury, it's good to know that Audi's trying to corner the luxury EV market.

"By 2020, we want to be the leading premium seller of electric vehicles," Franciscus van Meel, Audi's manager for electric mobility strategy.

We're watching EV developments with interest. This kind of new technology? Tres cool.

Which cars get the most tickets?

We've all heard the theory that red cars and sports cars are more ticketed than sedans or those painted in any other color. (I should know. I used to own a red Eclipse!)

A recent study by auto analytics firm, Quality Planning, found that sportier cars are likely to be owned by aggressive drivers, who are more likely to be ticketed.

It also found that it's not just teenagers and young adults who're pedal heavy, so are older drivers.

There's also a list of cars (makes and models) on MSN Autos that top the ticketing charts. (Ha! My Eclipse isn't on there!)

Is it a bad idea to allow EVs on the roads?

The EV or electric vehicle has been heralded by many as possibly the best alternative to petrol-driven cars.

But while some governments protect EV makers, citing job creation and revenue, industry experts say allowing widespread use of EVs on the roads might not be such a good idea if competition by makers isn't advancing new and improved EV technology as time goes by.

What do you think?

Photo from Travelismo

Prepping Your Car for Winter Driving

If you’re from California and you have to relocate to someplace like Maine for a new job in December, you’re in for quite a ride!

Winters can be cruel up north and when it comes to prepping your car for cold weather and winter driving, it’s essential that you know enough about winter driving safety to protect your car from damage and yourself from harm.

It’s a good idea to have a local mechanic check your car for winter driving safety.

A fully-charged car battery in good working condition is essential for winter driving safety, so make sure to test your battery and charging system.

Brakes are another key factor in winter driving safety; you should have them thoroughly checked and tested.

If your vehicle’s coolant level is low, just add an equal solution of water and coolant to maintain the required antifreeze capability.

If you don’t know a good mechanic yet and are concerned about winter driving safety, ask your auto shipper if they can recommend somebody.

Carmoza’s customer service line is there before, during and after your car relocation to help adress your concerns. We’ll never leave you out in the cold.

PHOTO CREDIT: GlassUSA.com

This post also appeared on Carmoza's blog on the Carmoza website

Auto Shipping to Cold Climates

If you live in Miami and you’re starting a new job in Boston next month, you’ll need to prepare your car for auto shipping to ensure that it arrives at your destination intact.

Here are some basic guidelines to follow when prepping your vehicle for auto shipping:

• Remove all personal items from the vehicle. The automobile shipping company is not responsible for them or for any damage they may cause to your vehicle while in transport.
• Never leave your alarm system on.
• Make sure that your car has a quarter tank of gas before auto shipping, so it can be driven on and off the trailer.
• Check the tire pressure to ensure safe loading and unloading.
• Loose items and accessories like antennas should be secured and car covers removed.
• For auto shipping to a cold climate, ensure that your car’s antifreeze levels are within factory specifications to protect it from the cold.

This post also appeared on Carmoza's website blog.

The Auto Industry in America: New Hampshire

In our quest to be the best national auto transport company out there, we researched the history of the automotive industry in virtually every state across the U.S.

And we've found that almost every state has some kind of tie to the industry. Check out this first in a series of posts on The Auto Industry in America, starting with New Hampshire.

We hope you find it as fascinating as we did!

NEW HAMPSHIRE

Brief Background
New Hampshire is ranked 46th in size and 41st in population in the U.S. with a total population of 1.3 million residents. One of the 13 original states, New Hampshire reached statehood in June of 1788 as the the ninth state.

The capital is Concord and the largest city is Manchester. New Hampshire is also known as the Granite State for its self-sufficiency and geology. The state motto of "Live Free or Die" is emblazoned on all license plates in the state.

New Hampshire offers residents and tourists many recreational attractions, such as snowmobiling, skiing, hiking, summer cottages, motorsports events held at the New Hampshire Motor Speedway, and Motorcycle Week--a popular event for motorcyclists.

While tourism is an important industry for New Hampshire, so is producing rubber and plastic products, machinery, and electrical equipment, along with its agricultural output including apples, eggs, dairy products, cattle, and nursery stock.

The Auto Industry in New Hampshire
Framingham Assembly plant--in Massachusetts rather than New Hampshire--provided hundreds of jobs for New Hampshire residents.

This General Motors plant opened in 1947 and the first vehicle produced there was a Buick. The plant was shutdown in 1989. But at one point, it was the largest automotive manufacturing plant in the U.S.

Tiremakers offer new tread designs and compounds for winter

"When preparing your vehicle for winter, most people think about getting the battery tested, installing new wiper blades and having plenty of windshield-washer fluid on hand. Those are all good habits. But if you live in a cold-weather part of the country, installing a dedicated set of winter tires is another thing you should consider."

Read more by Auto Week's Johnathon Wong HERE.

Skid Masters: Top 10 all-wheel drive vehicles for wintery weather

"The prospect of winter driving can be daunting for car owners who don't have the right set of wheels for the job.

"When confronted by a treacherous snow-covered road, you could suddenly feel like a hockey player who's skated onto center ice in a pair of roller skates."

A look at top 10 all-wheel drive vehicles for winter roads via MSN Autos.

Ride like royalty for less

Thank goodness for competition!

Because thanks to competition in the auto marketplace, technological advances and consumer watchdogs, auto makers are producing reliable, attractive, safe and well-equipped cars that spill into the luxury car price range--for less.

There's no need to spend beyond your means to cop a good ride. Check out these MSN Auto picks.

2011 Model Year Overview

A look at the new and refreshed cars, trucks and SUVs coming soon.

Much to the surprise of consumers--and maybe even some dealers--the auto industry survived the meltdown of 2009.

And with automakers reporting increased dealer traffic, new optimism has brought on a wave of new models just on the horizon.

Take a look at the latest vehicles coming down the pike for the 2011 model year, via MSN Autos.
PHOTO CREDIT: Aston Martin

Is ugly the new cool?

"How could something so awkward looking be approved by so many people?"

While car enthusiasts might find the Nissan Juke's looks off-putting or bizarre, it looks cool to a younger consumer that views the automobile as more of an appliance — or Nissan hopes they do.

A closer look at some not-so-pretty rides and their puzzling appeal via MSN Autos.

10 outrageous SEMA rides

When the wild side goes too far, you get these rad rides. Check out these from the recent SEMA Show via MSN Autos.

Corporate relocation and car shipping

You’ve worked hard, got the promotion, and now you have to move to the head office.

And if the head office wants you next month, even if it’s on the opposite side of the country, you’ll need the services of a dependable auto relocation company to get your car to your new home when you need it.

You may not know it, but automobile relocation is a popular choice for a growing number of busy executive and other professionals who rely on their cars in whatever city they currently call home.

A trustworthy auto relocation company like Carmoza will happily supply you with a free quote for a stress-free door-to-door auto relocation that fits your schedule.

Remember to have all of your auto paperwork and the details of your itinerary on hand when speaking to customer service from your chosen auto relocation company. Get clear answers to all of your questions and request a checklist to prep your car for auto relocation.

To make sure your car is adequately insured for damages during its transit, always review the auto relocation company’s insurance policy carefully and, if necessary, ask about additional insurance coverage options.

SEMA!

Sadly, the Carmoza team's not at at SEMA this year. And following all the sweet rides on Twitter isn't helping that wistfulness either! But at least we'll be at NADA, right?

Anyway, Automotive.com has coverage of the Auto Show from Motor Trend. Read recaps from the auto show floor, and browse their photo gallery to view concepts, new releases, and more.

It's the next best thing to being there...

The skinny on the extended warranty

"Your vehicle is a major investment. With an Extended Warranty you are protecting yourself from the unexpected cost of mechanical breakdowns.

"One major repair often ends up costing as much, or even more than the entire cost of the warranty. An Extended Warranty will ensure that your Vehicle is always in the best mechanical condition."

More from AutoBuyersAdvice.com on why it might be a good idea to invest in an extended warranty and what to look for when buying one.

10 cars overshadowed by their successor

"It's an automaker's job to improve on previous models, but sometimes they get it so right that the previous generation is completely overshadowed."

With the help of readers, the Jalopnik crew put together a list of the ten cars overshadowed by their successor.

For a full list, check out the article on Jalopnik.com

PHOTO CREDIT: Angel Alvarez

2010 LA Auto Show: Design Contestants Revealed

One of the coolest parts of auto shows is the concept ride designs. Check out these snazzy futuristic rides from this year's LA Auto Show.

PHOTO CREDIT: InternetAutoGuide.com

Classic cars, up in smoke

Rod Hanggi owns roughly 30 collector cars dating as far back as 1904. But he recently watched them go up in smoke when the building in which they were stored caught fire.

Most now have just a "charred black paint job". Can't imagine how traumatic that must've been!

To read the full article, check it out on WDAY News 6.

PHOTO CREDIT: WDAY News 6

Meet Barry Bourgeois: Your Central Region VP

Barry Bourgeois went to college to be a stockbroker, but all it took was an interview with Ford Motor Company. He hasn’t looked back since.

At Carmoza, Barry’s responsible for the dealer network in the Central region of the U.S., including 17 Midwest and Central states.

“I really enjoy the exciting challenges of dealing with people on a daily basis and helping businesses increase their operational efficiencies in a fast-paced environment,” said Barry, also a licensed pilot.

Before coming to Carmoza, Barry spent 21 years at Ford and Lincoln Mercury where he kick-started his auto industry career in Ford’s management training program, and later held roles as its franchising strategy manager - West and sales operations manager of the Ford Division.

It’s where he also first worked with Carmoza President Peter Fong.

Barry also ran his own consulting group, Retail Network Development, which provided dealership operations, dealer network development and franchising, and collateral asset management for automotive finance companies. Small wonder he’s a stickler for dealer efficiency!

“Barry has more than 20 years experience at Ford and a true understanding of all facets of dealership operations,” Fong said. “He really knows what dealers need and how to get it to them.”

Barry is a State University of New York (SUNY) at Oswego alumnus. He lives in Birmingham, Mich., with his wife of 15 years and two sons, 11 and 14 years old. He enjoys keeping up with his rambunctious boys and plans to start flying single engine planes again sometime soon.

Scary rides

And just in time for Halloween! MSN Autos takes a look at some rides that just might scare the wits out of you. Whether they're scary fast, scary expensive or the scariest tease, it's definitely offers some interesting fodder to the car geek--and artist--in all of us.

PHOTO CREDIT: MSN Autos/KTM X-Bow

Buying a Used Car: What You Need to Know

These days, it makes more economic sense to buy a used car. Not only is it cheaper and can still provide a good quality life, most used cars at dealers aren't from trade-ins; they're dealer-bought at professional auctions with low mileage and good maintenance records.

If you're going to invest in a used car, a few things to take into consideration would be:

• Buying an extended warranty


• Research the lemon laws in your state. (A lemon is a vehicle that's plagued with serious defects)


• Consider how you'll finance the car


• Check on insurance costs with a few companies to get an idea of rates and see if you can afford them


• Factor into your budget transportation of the car to you found it out-of-state, online etc.

For more comprehensive information on each of these important points, check out Buying a Used Car: What You Need to Know on CarDetective.com

Cross-Country Auto Shipping: What Can I Expect to Pay?

Moving from one side of the country to the other is expensive. And when you need cross-country auto shipping, it’s wise to get at least one auto shipping quote ahead of time so you can include those costs in your relocation budget.

When you request an auto shipping quote, the company will ask for a pick-up and delivery point to determine how far the distance is between locations. To get an accurate auto shipping quote, you’ll also have to provide information about the size and weight of your car, whether or not you want enclosed transportation, and if your vehicle requires special handling, as in the case of exotic or inoperable cars.

When requesting an auto shipping quote, keep in mind that rates vary per season, and you can expect to pay more in the summer than in the winter. Though your auto shipping quote will depend on all these factors, what follows are some general price estimates for cross-country auto shipping.

• For a regular small to medium size car, you can expect to pay between $600 and $1,100.


• A van or SUV will cost between $800 and $1,200.


• For exotic vehicles that require special transportation and handling, you can expect to pay over $3,000.
  

Small startups think big, hook top executives

Today's story in Automotive News by Lindsay Chappell and Dave Guilford features Carmoza's CEO Peter Fong and co-founder Randy Ortiz.

Here's an excerpt:

Former Chrysler brand CEO Peter Fong says credibility is critical in approaching customers.

"It's important to be able to have your phone calls returned and to have people respond to invitations to meetings," Fong says. "That's been pretty easy for us."

By "us," Fong is referring to himself, auto leasing and dealer training executive Eustice Mita and Randy Ortiz, who retired in March at age 52 as Ford Motor Co.'s general manager of Ford, Lincoln and Mercury sales.

Together with Fong, 46, the former Detroit managers plan to take Carmoza, a vehicle transport startup, into the fast lane. Fong is president of Carmoza, and Ortiz a partner.

"We're talking to all the big dealer groups in the country," says Ortiz, who is drawing a Ford pension. "Peter and I know what dealers face in moving vehicles. A third of their sales are often dealer-to-dealer trades, and there is no national brand serving them."

Check out the full story in Automotive News or via Carmoza's newsroom.

10 steps to selling your car

So you've decided to sell your car, but before you put it on the market, there are a few things to consider and take care of.

According to the Kelly Blue Book site, it's important to pretend to be the buyer and see the car through his or her eyes. It's also vital that the car is cleaned; you only get to make a first impression once!

Buyers are usually responsible for making sure the car gets to them after purchase, especially if they're out-of-state. But it doesn't hurt for the seller to provide them with car shipping information on a reputable auto transport company to make their lives--and the buying process--a little easier.

Car shipping for snow birds

Leaving a cold climate for the warmth of a southern winter retreat is a rewarding but often costly endeavor. And if you plan to stay away for the entire winter, you’ll want your car with you. Unless shipping cars is your daily business, transporting your own vehicle can be overwhelming if you’ve never done it before. That’s why cheap car shipping is a crucial part of every seasonal traveler's winter plans.

There are reputable companies experienced in shipping cars from northern to southern climates in the United States and beyond. They know shipping cars is a competitive business that requires the best possible care for each car as well as world-class customer service for every customer.

Regardless of what company you choose, the business of shipping cars requires all transport companies to carry insurance for each vehicle. You can request a quote from multiple companies to find cheap car shipping.

Remember, because they are constantly shipping cars, these companies may offer seasonal rates and could have special discounts for your return journey. Keep in mind when planning your journey that the more flexible your pick-up and delivery dates are, the more likely you are to get a good deal on shipping cars.


PHOTO CREDIT: MovingtoPanama.com

Auto shipping to warmer climates

Many Americans who live in cold climates like to move south for the winter months. And most want to take their car with them. Auto shippers take great care to transport your car safely to its destination, but there are a number of precautions you, the owner, can take to prepare your car for transportation.

Here are four basic precautions auto shippers always advise to ensure your vehicle remains intact during its journey:

• Remove all personal items from your car, because auto shippers aren’t responsible for any damage to them or for any damage they might cause to your car.
• Make sure any antennas or other loose items are secured, and turn off your alarm.
• If you have a car cover, remove it.
• Auto shippers usually request that an operable car has a quarter tank of gas, as well as adequate air pressure in the tires, so it can easily be driven on and off the trailer.
• Auto shipping companies advise you check on your vehicle’s coolant levels so the car doesn’t overheat in the warmer climate.

If you ask, most auto shippers will provide you with a checklist on how to prepare your car for transportation.

PHOTO CREDIT: crayolamom on Flickr

This post also appeared on Carmoza's blog

Meet Jason Lewis: Your Carmoza Eastern Regional VP

Jason Lewis broke into the car business in college when he worked for an automotive service chain. He'll tell you that he's never quite found an industry so challenging and rewarding. These days, the Villanova and Penn State alumnus has two passions--family (he has a wife and two toddler daughters) and cars.

At Carmoza, he's responsible for growing the dealer network in the Eastern region of the U.S., increasing transports, and meeting Carmoza's dealer commitments.

"I really love the idea that we're taking a part of the industry that's been a headache for dealers and bringing a level of service that makes their lives easier," he said.

Jason came to Carmoza from Kia Motors of America where he was the Philadelphia District Sales Manager responsible for maintaining and expanding the area dealer network. During his four years there, he achieved continuous double-digit sales growth.

Before Kia, Jason worked at Ford Motor Company where he managed several dealers in Philadelphia. He was also Zone Manager for area Ford and Lincoln dealers and represented the company on the National Zone Manager Council.

Jason's MBA is from Villanova University and he holds a Bachelor of Science degree in management science and information systems from Pennsylvania State University.

"Jason isn't just a tremendous asset to the Carmoza team, dealers will tell you that he's an awesome guy to work with, who always has their best interests in mind," said Carmoza President Peter Fong.

Need to reach Jason? E-mail him at jlewis@carmoza.com or call him directly (610) 283-1716.

This post also appeared on Carmoza's blog.

Before you buy a car, research, research, research

So you've decided to buy a new car--or a new-to-you-car--whatever works best with your budget.

It's important to do your research when buying a car. Do you want a brand new car, a certified used or a used car? What car payment can you afford? Do you want a particular make, model or body type? If you search outside your area, how will you ship the car to you?

Remember that many sites through which used cars are sold typically don't provide auto transport, so shipping should be factored into your budget.

AutoTrader.com has really useful information on pre-purchase car research. And if you're looking for an idea of the cost the ship you new car safely and on-time, one of Carmoza's Transport Specialists will be happy to guide you through the process.

It's easy: Just get a Carmoza quote online or call 1-888-708-0880!


PHOTO CREDIT: sftravel.com

Carmoza Auto Transport partners with AAA to Save Car-Movers Money

Brookfield, Wis. – Auto-transport is now as easy as 1-2-3 with AAA. Beginning in September, 51 million AAA members have been able to Show Your Card & Save at Carmoza, a premier auto transport company dedicated to providing timely, safe and cost-efficient vehicle delivery with unparalleled customer service every step of the way.

Carmoza is led by former Philadelphia 76ers President and successful entrepreneur Pat Croce. Automotive industry powerhouse Peter Fong, Chrysler Brand’s ex-president and CEO, serves as company President. The strategic partnership inked with AAA Mid-Atlantic offers an exclusive 5 percent discount on Carmoza vehicle shipping to AAA members across the country.

“AAA is committed to providing our members with valuable resources when it comes to their automotive needs and our relationship with Carmoza now offers our members a reliable resource in the auto transport arena,” said Brian St. Leger, Show Your Card & Save Director for AAA Mid-Atlantic. “When looking to transport a vehicle, either one way or round trip, AAA members can now take advantage of another Show Your Card & Save discount from another reliable AAA partner.”

AAA members can present their cards to Show Your Card & Save for a reduced rate on shipping their vehicles nationwide—a service backed by the Carmoza pledge to deliver cars economically, safely and on time, exactly where they’re needed.

“Our mission is to create a new customer service paradigm in auto transport,” said Jeff Sorg, vice president of strategic partnerships. “Carmoza is the brand AAA members can turn to, knowing that our service providers are committed to providing them with reliability, dependability, security and unparalleled service.”

AAA has been the recognized national leader in providing peace of mind to motorists on the go for more than 100 years. A motorist club serving more than 51 million members in the United States and Canada, AAA is one of the most trusted brands in the world, offering its members solid auto advice and valuable benefits.

“We’re really proud to announce this strategic partnership with AAA Mid-Atlantic and look forward to providing AAA members with peace of mind, knowing their vehicle is being transported by professionals who are accountable for every aspect of the move,” Sorg said.


If you're a member of the press seeking more information about Carmoza's partnership with AAA, please contact Kari Cobham, vice president of media and communications, at kari@carmoza.com

Carmoza Auto Transport offers Dealer Snow Bird Promotion

It’s no secret in the auto transport world that when the going gets cold, the cold go South. In fact, the population of Florida doubles in the winter and many seasonal travelers move their vehicles to warmer climates.

That’s why Carmoza Auto Transport is offering the Dealer Snow Bird Promotion—a customized service for dealerships that combines vehicle maintenance services with transportation of customers’ vehicles to their seasonal winter home or destination.

“This is a great way for dealers to demonstrate their dedication to customer service by providing vehicle maintenance services as well as auto transport,” said Jeff Sorg, Carmoza’s vice president of strategic partnerships. “It gives them peace of mind that their car’s in good shape for the winter and will get to them on-time and safely.”

“Carmoza’s Snow Bird Promotion allows dealers to attract additional service business while developing greater loyalty and more meaningful, year-round relationships with their customers,” Sorg added.

The Dealer Snow Bird Program is quick and easy. Here’s how it works:

• Dealers complete and submit a dealer form that includes the dealer logo on Carmoza's Dealer Snow Bird Program page

• A regional Carmoza dealer representative will be in contact to confirm included services and the package price.

• Carmoza will send a customized e-mail offering; the dealer has full control over content and messaging.

• The dealership can then send the customized e-mail blast to its customer list.

Contact Carmoza at 1-888-708-0876 for more information or to speak directly with a regional dealer representative. Visit Carmoza’s Dealer Snow Bird Program page for more details.

Why auto shipping rates vary by season

For everyone--especially those on a budget--it’s important to know that auto shipping rates can vary depending on seasonal demand.

If you live in New England and you prefer to spend the cold winter months in a warmer climate, you’ll need a trustworthy auto shipping company that can transport your car to and from your winter home.

Or if you’re a student and you need your car for your summer job back home, you’ll want a reliable company that offers affordable auto shipping rates.

Some things that affect auto shipping rates:

• Because there’s a high demand for auto shipping during the summer months, you can expect to pay $200 to $300 more per car than you would in the winter.
• Auto shipping rates are also influenced by current fuel and oil prices.
• Some reliable, competitive car shipping companies like Carmoza offer a discount on the return shipping of your vehicle. Remember to request a free quote from Carmoza to find out how much you can save on your return trip!
• When you enquire about auto shipping rates, it’s always a good idea to ask whether the price is lower if you change your auto shipping date by a month or two.