Chet Parsons, Car Guy

I can't count how many times I have voluntarily and involuntarily watched that advertisement.  All those adorable computer generated hamsters rolling around in toasters and washing machines set to that infectious tune that drew us all in and bestowed pop culture credibility upon a little car from Korea. That clever bit of advertising used the images of toasters and washing machines to reference specific cars, but it reminded me of how often I referred to many less-than-entertaining automobiles as appliances.  I applied that term with a bit of condescension and even disdain.  I pondered the point of building a car or truck that had no real character or soul and who would care so little about these things that they would actually buy one.  Then I acquired two appliances of my own.    The first didn't strike me as an appliance until I had used it up and replaced it with another item just like it.  I'm on my fourth one now.  Just as my househo...

When not making prolific contributions to my own blog, I regularly visit a few sites dedicated to automotive news and commentary.  Lately, I have taken a specific interest in Tesla Motors.  As with my friends at Local Motors, Tesla is not only about the end product but is also taking a different approach to the manufacture and sale of new cars that happen to be electric. But judging from the tone of some of the articles I've read, as well as the comments sections, my excitement isn't shared.  I'm wondering if the general public doesn't want an alternative.  Are we still afraid of the electric car?  Are we uncertain about buying a car the way we buy a computer, especially if they use the same batteries? But really, why all the harsh negativity?  Like anyone else who follows automotive news, I am quite aware of Tesla's well publicized financial situation, and perhaps too aware of everything CEO Elon Musk is doing these days.  I am also equally aware of...