While certain sections of the auto industry have been thrown for a loop these past few months, there are still many
positive things for which to be thankful. Here’s a list of our top five, but perhaps you know of more…
1. First steps to recovery
Admitting there’s a problem is always the hardest part, especially for extremely large corporations where
accountability is easy to hide from amidst a crowd of suits.
Rick Wagoner and
Bill Ford have both publicly acknowledged the dire
situation in which their respective companies are now operating. It’s a first step, hopefully towards
recovery.
2. All-Wheel Drive
At this moment the Great Lakes region is being buried in snow. Two feet are expected overnight where I live in
Cleveland. I don’t have AWD, but right now I’m wishing I did.
3. The Ford Mustang
We’re not thankful for the Ford Mustang just because it’s a sweet modern muscle car. We’re thankful that it alone
survived extinction and was reborn better in every way. The industry is likely on the verge of another pony-car war,
and we have the success of the new Mustang to thank for it.
4. New rating methods
Whether it’s the SAE’s new J2723 standard for
horsepower ratings or the EPA chief calling for more accurate
MPG test procedures, a consumer armed with accurate
information is always a good thing.
5. Innovation
Hydrogen fuel cells, hybrid drivetrains, direct injection, twincharging, and even Stow ‘N Go seating are just a few
of the innovations that automotive engineers and designers have developed or have been developing for our mass
consumption. Who knows what they’ll surprise us with next?
Have a happy holiday today, drive carefully and check back with Autoblog after your family feast. It may be
Thanksgiving, but we’ll still on duty.