Home  Car Chat Post

 

You Didn't Build That
  
Comments

Parallax1

President Obama famously stuck his foot in it when he proclaimed, "You Didn't Build That!" in a 2012 campaign speech. The Democrats said he meant roads and bridges (which government doesn't build, either), but he clearly implied that businesses weren't responsible for their success.

Now, here we have some actual examples of cars, concepts and inventions that one organization gets credit for that were actually created by another organization first.

ABS

Who invented ABS? Everybody knows its Mercedes in 1978! They even make that claim in their advertising and on their website.

1978 Mercedes ABS Demonstration courtesy Daimler.

But anti-lock brakes were in use on aircraft as early as the 1950's and Chrysler had the first electronic antilock brake system in an automobile, a $500 option on the 1971 Imperial. "Four-Wheel Sure Brake" was offered from 1971 until 1974.

1971 Chrysler Imperial Ad

Aerodynamic Design

1986 Ford Taurus

The 1986 Taurus was hailed as the world's first aerodynamically designed family sedan, tested in a wind tunnel for efficiency. Dubbed "jelly-bean" design by its jealous competitors, especially Chrysler whose cars were the boxiest at the time, it was years ahead, as the nineties and beyond was over-flowing with aerodynamically designed and styled cars.

1934 Chrysler Airflow

The 1934 Chrysler Airflow was the first automobile designed using a wind tunnel. It also introduced unibody construction to mass produced automobiles, where the body is part of the structure of the automobile. It also revolutionized the weight distribution of cars, that up to this time had up to 75% of their weight over the rear wheels, making them unstable; the Airflow had less than 50% of its weight on the rear axle. 

Electric Truck

Tesla Cybertruck

Everybody's excited about the upcoming Tesla "Cybertruck." This history-making vehicle will be the first truck to run on electricity alone and over a quarter million $100 deposits were received within a week of its unveiling. Able to carry 3500 pounds in its bed and tow up to 14,000 pounds, the Cybertruck is truly cutting edge.

1900 Wood Electric Truck

...or is it? This 1900 Wood Electric Truck is 120 years old and only produced 4 horsepower from its two motors, but it could carry 4000 pounds. No towing rating and it only could go about 20 miles on a charge.

Hybrid Car

2001 Toyota Prius from Wikipedia

By IFCAR - Own work, Public Domain (cropped and edited)

In 2000, for the 2001 model year, America was introduced to the Toyota Prius, America's first hybrid-electric car.

 Honda_Insight_Back from Wikipedia

By 韋駄天狗

Well, actually, the lesser successful Honda Insight beat it to the American market by seven months, coming out in December 1999 as a 2000 model.

1916 Woods Dual-Power Hybrid Coupe

Of course, both were a little late, compared to this 1916 Woods Dual-Power Coupe. Built by a long-time electric car company, the Dual-Power was meant to capture customers who liked the range of gasoline cars. The Dual Power could run on electricity or gas or even both. It even had regenerative brakes to capture power from stopping. The electric motor had about 6 horsepower and the gas motor had 14. 

People's Car

1949 Volkswagen Beetle at Ford Museum 2018

Volkswagen (Adolph Hitler) famously developed the Beetle as a vehicle for the masses; the name "Volkswagen" even means "People's Car." Ordered by the führer in 1934 to be produced, Adolph's desire for authentic Polish food delayed the actual mass production until 1946, under British administration.

1919 Ford Model T

However, the Ford Model T was actually the first simple, mass-produced car that was affordable under a middle-income salary. By utilizing the first moving production line, standardized parts and huge economies of scale, Ford was able to sell the Model T for $825 at its introduction in 1909. Improvements in efficiency and costs got that price down to $260 in 1925, equivalent to less than $4000 in today's currency.

V8 Engine

Everybody knows the 1932 Ford Model-A was the first V8 car! Its flathead V8 brought power on the cheap to the masses.

1932 Ford Flathead V8 at Ford Museum

But if you're a little more knowledgeable, you realize that Cadillac built a V8 model in 1914, and even Chevrolet had one in 1918, and it had overhead valves!

But what's worse than that, is that the Americans didn't even invent the V8!! In 1904, the first V8s were made in France for aircraft and later racing cars. Nowadays, a French mechanic would more easily fix a nuclear reactor than a V8 engine.

 

 Antoinette

1909 Antoinette VII aircraft - Photograph By Pline - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0

Forty-Hour Work Week

Labor unions tout the 40-hour work week and its two day weekend as their invention and take full credit for it.

Ford UAW Handshake

But in reality, Ford Motor Company came up with the idea and implemented it in 1926, causing major companies to fall inline or lose employee morale. Ford workers would not unionize until 1941.

P.S. Al Gore didn't invent the internet.

 
 
 
 

How the Coronavirus is impacting the U.S car industry
  
Comments

Parallax1

How the coronavirus is impacting the U.S. car industry

The deadly COVID-19 outbreak has spread to over a hundred countries worldwide since the beginning of the outbreak in Wuhan, China. Since then the disease has spread at alarming rates to infect more than a half a million people and those numbers are growing. The virus has now spread to the United States and the number of reported cases is growing as well. The economic impact has already been felt with congress signing bill for over $2.5 trillion in a stimulus bill signaling a desperate attempt to keep the economy afloat as the nation shuts down. 

As millions of Americans and businesses across the country begin to feel the impact the automobile industry in the U.S is no exception. 

The Size and Scope of Cars in The U.S

It's no secret that the United States auto industry has had its shares of blows and blunders over the years, but it still remains strong. Only rivaled by China the United States boasts the largest car market in the world. Just two years again in 2018 alone the U.S sold over 17.2 million in light vehicle units, marking the fourth year in a row of record sales. 

It shouldn't be a surprise that the industry should be affected as the nation goes into social lockdown and production comes to a grinding halt with millions of Americans staying home in fear of further spreading the pandemic. Not only that, but NBC reports that supply lines have been disrupted as well, particularly in the auto parts sector that has turned air shipping in a struggle to keep parts coming in. Some experts that owners and manufacturers both may be feeling the impact some time this summer. 

The COVID-19 pandemic is continuing to have an impact and public health and the economy and the auto industry is feeling the effects in more than one way: 

Public’s Reaction:

Fewer people are willing to leave their homes except for absolutely essential travel. This will likely have an impact on the auto-industry as show rooms and dealerships begin to empty out, assuming authorities even allow them to remain open. Down the road this could have lasting impacts on the auto industry as more people work and learn remotely and pursue alternative activities at home in favor of social distancing Though this could have impacts down the road, right now they're hard to determine. 

Lockdowns and Cancellation

Washington, New York, and California were just a few states so far to the experience the effects of a full scale lock-down. Pennsylvania may also be among one of the states to experience an “order to stay”. As the roads begin to clear and more confirmed cases continue to arise auto manufacturers expect government lock-downs to bring the industry to a grinding halt. A few auto workers have been among the confirmed cases, leading to fears further shut downs in the industry itself.  

It's not only manufacturing that will be effected by promotions as well. The auto industry is expected to see a downturn in sales and revenue as many advertising and promotional venues are taken from them. The New York Auto show, one of the largest in the nation, has been suspended at least until august and car shows across the nation are likely to follow. 

Economic Threat:

The car industry in the state of Michigan alone constitutes 4% of the nation's total GDP. A loss as devastating as is expected to experienced by the industry is likely to harm the United States as a whole. Vacant manufacturing plants will mean a loss in jobs, GDP, and likely an increased cost in auto sales and maintenance.  

Could the Whole Thing Come to A  Halt?

GM Chairman and CEO Mary Barra announced a suspension of GM's production operations, suggesting the industry itself could come to a temporary halt saying, 

“GM and the UAW have always put the health and safety of the people entering GM plants first, and we have agreed to a systematic, orderly suspension of production to aid in fighting COVID-19/coronavirus. We have been taking extraordinary precautions around the world to keep our plant environments safe and recent developments in North America make it clear this is the right thing to do now. I appreciate the teamwork of UAW President Rory Gamble, UAW Vice President Terry Dittes and local leadership as we take this unprecedented step.”

It's hard to say what kind of impact this may have on car sales and manufacturing in the U.S down the road, but some fear if it goes on too long they may never come back. 

 
 
 
 

Traveling with pets, what you need to know!
  
Comments

Parallax1

How to Handle Pets on the Open Road

Travel is an important part of our lives. Our traveling adventures are a time to make memories and to engage in unforgettable experiences. The Dalai Lama once said, “Once a year, go some place you've never been before.” and indeed doing so can vastly enrich our lives. Every time we go away, however, we're often forced to leave behind our most loving and loyal friends. Yet pets are an important part of our lives too, and many of us consider them members of the family. There's no reason you shouldn't be able to take your furry friends with you on a long road trip. Doing so will be rewarding, but not easy.  Here are some things to keep in mind. 

Check in With The Vet

Before you take off on your long trip, you'll want to make sure you're bringing your companions with on a clean bill of health. Always seek the advice of your local veterinarian to see what your pet might need along the way. Your pet could also get car sick or catch something during the trip, so you'll want to be prepared for the worst. While your at the veterinarian's office you'll also want to update your pets records, vaccinations, and anything else it needs. Some states may require this by law so you'll want to be prepared to prove you've taken all the necessary steps. 

Microchip your pet: 

A lot of things can happen during a long road trip. Things get busy, noisy, and chaotic as we are trying to navigate our way to our intended destinations. Sometimes the worst can happen. A pet may wonder away at a truck stop, a camp site, or anywhere else you can imagine. If you think losing your pet at home is a big a deal just imagine what it'd be like to lose them out of state. The best way to prevent this from happening and to keep your pet safe is to micro-chip them. By doing so you'll be able to know where they are all at any moment and keep them safe and sound. 

 This is actually a safe and simple procedure. Although it can be a little painful for your pet, the vet will be in and out in minutes. The micro-chip is no larger than a grain of rice and is safely and comfortably secured under the skin in your pet's neck. The micro-chip can track your pet, and store your info through E-identification in case they're found by a Good Samaritan. You can get this done at your local vet's office, but ideally you should have it done upon adoption. Some states are even beginning to require this by law in certain circumstances. 

Either way, it's a great idea for a road trip if you're going to bring your pets. 

 

Keep Your Pet in A Well-Ventilated Crate

Our primary responsibility as  pet owners and trip-goers is to ensure the safety and health of pets and people alike.  Crates can be used for many things and, of course, are great for road trips. They should be used to keep the pet secure at all times when the vehicle is motion, especially is they're small enough to climb under the seat.  Whether you're caging your pet at home or bringing them along for the ride, providing a safe and comfortable crate is a must. The crate should allow your pet easy access to fresh and cool air. It should also allow some light to enter and provide enough space for your pet to feel comfortable. If possible, include some kind of cushion, pillow, or pet bed to make their stay more pleasant. Some people prefer to hold their pets in the back seats, and that's fine too as long you can keep your pet still and at peace. You'll also want to make sure you're not allowing them to stick their heads out the window. While sometimes adorable when dogs do this, it can lead to injury. 

Develop Pet travel-feeding schedule:

To save  time during the trip, it's important to minimize bathroom breaks and other unncessary stops. It's almost important to work out a feeding schedule for your pet, especially during particularly long road trips. Feeding your pet in a moving car can cause gastrointestinal distress, leading nausea and messes you don't want to clean up. Never allow your pet to drink from outdoor water sources in unfamiliar territory, but instead keep some water  handy for pets and people both. 

 

Put Together a Pet  Traveling Kit:

Traveling with pets, though a joy, is always going to be a tremendous challenge that requires  planning. You may need to put together a customized kit just for your faithful companion. This will include the obvious provisions like food, water, dishes, and a comfortable crate. It may also include a leash and collar with tags, toys, and even some bags for your pets bathroom breaks. You also want to include some cleaning supplies in case your little friends leave AN unexpected mess along the way. 

Injuries, sickness, and harsh climates are just a few of the traveling woes your pet may face along the way during your road trip. If you're in doubt of what to bring, consult your local vet. They may be able to provide instructions on how to put together a custom travel kit. 

Never leave it alone in the parking:

Never leave your pets alone for extended periods of time inside your car, especially in parking lots on hot summer days. Heat exhaustion will cause your animal suffering and possibly even kill it. With animal cruelty now a federal crime, you also don't want to risk someone making the worst of assumptions even if you leave for just a minute. 

Not only can leaving your pet in your car hurt them during harsh weather, but it may cause you to lose them. You don't want someone abducting your pet, or having them wander off while you're away. 

Take Breaks to Stretch

Animals aren't that different than us when it comes to long road trips. We both hate being cooped up and crammed up in a crowded vehicle. We hate being stuck in a hot car breathing stale air and watching the same scenes zoom by. Take a break to stretch, use the bathroom, and walk around a little sometimes. If you can, try to find a park or other recreational area where you can bring your pets for some much-deserved relaxation.  

 
 
 
 

Could General Motors Change the Electric Car Industry?
  
Comments

Parallax1

-Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

When the automobile first came out before the days of Henry Ford, it was a luxury item. Something that most Americans can't live without today was once reserved for the rich and famous. That all changed with the emergence of Ford's assembly line and other entrepreneurial icons that changed the face of the industry. New heroes and still changing it today.

Mr_and_Mrs_Henry_Ford_in_his_first_car.jpgcredit to; https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Mr_and_Mrs_Henry_Ford_in_his_first_car.jpg 

Take, for example, the rise of the electric car, once an inefficient and expensive toy. Most experts were unsure it would ever be roadworthy, especially in the long haul. A short battery life, a compact size, and poor acceleration were all issues that haunted this still developing technology. Even so, the implications were too big to ignore. We live in a world where we are constantly hearing about climate change and always seeking the next big technology. The electric car just seems like the next logical step. But where does it go from here?

The same principle that applied to the automobile once applied to the electric car: it was expensive, not practical and a toy of the rich and famous. Batteries are expensive and, at first, most of them withered in the face of Father Time with a limited battery life. Industry newcomers like Tesla are already striving to change that. CEO titans like Elon Musk are dominating the fledgling electric car market. Tesla might not be the only major player in the game to consider, at least not for long. Reuters reports that General Motors is also throwing its hat in the arena.

2018 Tesla Model S.JPG

Can General Motors Pull it Off? 

It's no secret that General Motors has already been fiddling around the allure of the electric vehicle. The company sold around 16,400 full electrics in the U.S with its new Chevy Bolt EV. Meanwhile, 60,000 units sold of a separate model in a similar joint venture in China. It's still a bold move. In terms of both sales and engineering, at least in electric cars, Tesla is by far the stronger company. General Motors' sales don't even come close. Last year saw Tesla pushing out more than 200,000 in the U.S alone and even more internationally. Every day they're stepping up their game. Don't count GM out just yet, however. They may be able to pull off an upset.

When measured solely in terms of cash value and revenue, GM is by far the dominant titan here. They have plenty of capital to work with. Still, they could lose that status if they fail in their bid to compete for a place in the growing green energy market. Fueled by fears of climate change and the toxicity of carbon emissions, more people are clamoring for cleaner and safer models. Imagine a car that uses zero gallons of gas and produces zero harmful emissions? Now imagine these cars are just as affordable, safe, and efficient. Imagine now that they're just as accessible as traditional gas and diesel varieties. Tesla is striving to make this a reality, and now GM is too. The question remains, "Who will reach that finish line first?"

It's All About The Battery

One of the biggest obstacles to affordable and efficient electrical models in the automotive industry is the battery. Range anxiety is the most often cited barrier to mainstream purchases of full electric cars. Batteries also need replacing, and worst of all, the battery packs aren't cheap. These factors keep gasoline and diesel dominant, and GM is still at the top in that industry. Still, they may be striving to change that, too.

GM has announced plans that seek to reduce the costs of their EV batteries to under $100 for every kilowatt-hour. That means that battery pack costs would see drops of up to 45%. Not only that, but they may be developing smaller, cheaper, and more efficient batteries with a new line altogether. A new partnership with a Korean chemical company may be seeking to do just that, and plans have already begun.

2014 Chevrolet Spark EV.JPG

Already investments of over $2 billion have poured into a new company that will be part of a joint venture between General Motors and LG Chem, a Korean battery producer. This venture will seek to develop a cheaper and longer-lasting battery pack.

The joint venture has already announced the establishment of a state of the art manufacturing plant. The company expects the plant to create over 1,100 jobs in Northeast Ohio near the community of Lordstown. Groundbreaking for the facility is expected to take place sometime in the middle of this year. This alone could have a substantial impact on the electric car industry, especially as companies like Tesla are sure to launch countermeasures. What other developments might take place to improve this ascending technology? What else might we see from other companies seeking to compete for a piece?

Electrical Cars are Here to Stay

It's hard to say right now what the future of the industry holds, especially for companies like GM who have had a rockier history in recent years. Despite requiring a government bailout and declaring bankruptcy in 2009 to stay afloat, the company has made a comeback with rising profits over the years. Whether or not they continue to impress remains uncertain as the industry continues to evolve. Tesla and GM have continued to provide an impressive match up, going head to head in this industry. As the fight heats up, it could change the automobile as we know it forever.

Many winners and losers will surely arise in this industry. Who they are is a question that remains to be answered. A great deal of uncertainty is haunting the auto industry, as these changes take place. Technicians may be returning to school, and dealerships along with auto-part shops will probably be updating their inventory. Whatever champions may emerge one thing and only one thing seems to be certain. Like it or not, the electric car is not going anywhere, anytime soon. The future is coming, and it's here to stay. 

2020 Chevrolet Bolt.jpg

 

 
 
 
 

Inside the Midwest's Supercar Dealer
  
Comments

Parallax1

     

Ultra-performance. Exotic. Supercars. All different nomenclatures that add up to one thing:

Dream cars

Their posters covered our walls when we were kids. They filled our imaginations and were the subject of endless daydreams.  

But, how do you actually buy one of these cars?  

 

STL Motorcars Main Entrance

I went behind the scenes with Mark Wetzel, the Bentley brand manager at St. Louis Motorcars, the finest luxury car dealer in St. Louis.  

With over 10 years experience in supercar sales, Mark has worked with such brands as Rolls Royce, Bugatti, Lotus, Aston Martin; he has served as the Lamborghini brand manager; and he currently leads the Bentley team.  Not only is Mark an important name is the business, he has firsthand experience having worked with factories around the world and served numerous clients and collectors.  

Mark Wetzel has a fascinating view into a rarified world. To set the stage for his interview we sat down together in the Bugatti configuration area. Premium fabric swatches and materials surrounded us along with an engine display and a kiosk for previewing colors and customization. A new Bentley rested quietly in the showroom across from us. It was Saturday morning, a few hours before the store opened, and I had parked my 2004 F250 across the street so that my rusted fenders wouldn't sully the pristine lot. Mark was on his way to his grandson's soccer game and wore jeans, not a three-piece suit. He's a down-to-earth guy who values trustworthiness and doing a great job more than appearances. 

Bugatti configuration area, STL Motorcars

 

Bugatti Motor Model

I was mesmerized by the millions of dollars worth of cars sitting around us. The dealership is perched right off a Interstate 64 west of St. Louis and is always a subject of discussion when driving in the area, particularly when a Lamborghini passes you in the fast lane while you're driving to lunch on a weekday. 

I wanted to know about the process behind the scenes:

What is it like to sell these cars?     Can anyone come to dealership to see the cars?     Who gets a test-drive?  

 So, I asked Mark for the answers we all want to know:

1. What's it like to work around these cars?

2020 Bentley Continental GT V8 Convertible

"There's a reason someone will pay a quarter million to buy a car," Mark said. He noted his time in Qatar and Italy driving Lamborghini's on F1 tracks as part of the brand's driving experience.  He says, "I'm not a good driver. The cars make you a very good driver… the guy talking to you, who's an amazing driver, [he's] telling you when to give it full throttle through a turn even if it scares you to death. Driving the cars," he says, "I'm reminded why a person would pay $300K to buy a car, even when it is more expensive than my house…. The people buying these cars, this money is extra, they are not scrimping."  

Working in the dealership seems like walking between two worlds: One where people with normal car experience are amazed at how these cars are engineered to be incredible performers, and another where the money to buy them is easily available.  

Clients buying supercars aren't financing them, they are paying cash.  

Mark doesn't come across with silly giddiness about the cars. He knows and respects these vehicles because he can see the engineering and talent that goes into making them. He uses the word, "breathtaking" several times while talking about the beauty of the design and the power, the performance.  

This store's presence has made exotic cars much more common in the St. Louis area, mostly due to the vision of its co-founders, Graham Hill and the late Jim Mills. Mark says, "Graham and Jim had a vision of building the store in this part of the country to be able to provide the service and attention locally for this end of the market." It has helped to elevate west St. Louis and put a little known area on the map. 

Bentley Hood Ornament (2019 Mulsanne)

The dealership's mission is to focus on cars that Mark describes as, "rare, exotic and inspire passion." 

These cars do just that. Despite his many years as the Lamborghini brand manager, Mark's recent shift to the Bentley lead was not only for cross training within the store, but also to help lead the 2020 Continental GT release. The new Continental model has been much anticipated but delayed in US release due to additional testing required for the W12 engine. The grand tourer on the show room floor is capable of a 3.9 second 0-60, powered by a twin-turbo V8 that pushes out 550 horsepower for a top speed of 198 mph. It is, as Mark likes to say, "breathtaking." The V8 only lags 85 horses behind its W12 big brother, and many consumers are glad that the more affordable version finally hit the market.

2. Is the process of buying a supercar the same as buying a regular car? 

Bentley Showroom at STL Motorcars

Mark responds, "most people that come here have an idea that they want an exotic car, and it is really just a matter of somebody telling them the process. The usual client has already owned expensive cars, like a Porsche, but not these exotic brands. Understand that people coming to buy these cars are likely not going to finance them…. that's because the finance rates are not like other brands," he says. Large brands with big stocks of cars use finance incentives to move inventory. These brands don't do that. "0% for 72 months!" doesn't live here.

Mark's clients are

"prepared and able to buy a car"

by the time they come in the store.  

 In fact, Mark says that "most repeat and experienced customers in this end of the business are really aware and attuned to buying cars unseen. So, 60-70% of my personal business," he says, "have never been to the store. If they are buying a used car, they are completely taking my word for it and I value that."  

Buying a supercar is similar to purchasing any car, but the numbers are higher and the experience is personal to the taste of the client. The difference is that many clients are running businesses and can't invest a lot of time to work with the factory to make a vehicle and, because of that, Mark explains, "it's a very consultative process that we do, [which] is very different than most car businesses."

3. Does anybody ever buy one of these cars from the showroom, or are they always ordered custom?  

Mark says that sometimes people buy a car from the showroom because they simply don’t want to wait for delivery. Factory ordering is often a four or five months process, much longer potentially if the car is in high demand or a new release. So people do drive a supercar off the showroom floor. This often depends on which brand the buyer wants. When St. Louis Motorcars opened in 2002, it was exclusively a Bentley dealer. Since opening they have sold 600 Bentleys and added multiple other brands. Some brands, like Bugatti, almost never have a showroom model because every car is made specifically for a buyer. Plus, the cars are generally about $3M, so stocking inventory would be financially unfeasible.    

2020 Bentley Continental GT convertible driver seat4. Is there any driver training for buyers?  

OK, so my real question is, "has anybody ever crashed an exotic car while driving off the lot?"  Mark says he's never had a buyer get in an accident on a test-drive or at the dealership. BUT, the answer for the store in general, unfortunately, is, "yes, someone crashed." The dealership used to carry Maserati, and a prospective buyer once crashed just outside the dealerhsip with another salesman. Can you imagine damaging an $80,000 Quattroporte the first time off the lot? The road conditions were icy. So now, as a personal policy, Mark never takes anybody on a test-drive after dark or in inclement weather.

The real answer here is that there is no driver training from the dealership. In fact, Mark tells me that many buyers don't even conduct a test drive. Some buyers have a proxy buy the car for them.  Others might even purchase a car over the phone. For those who desire education, all the brands offer driving experiences that cost a few thousand dollars and provide not only professional training but incredible opportunities to safely push the cars to their limits.

5. Are you concerned about people damaging the cars?  

Speaking of one client, Mark says, "he could buy the store if he wanted and was a former race car driver in Europe; but, he's [always] respectful driving the cars." Mark tells me that is very rare that anyone will push the cars hard in a test-drive or leaving the lot. His experience is that everyone understands that they need to follow the law and are part of the flow of traffic.

I had it in my mind that maybe the dealership had worked a deal with a nearby, small airport to allow the use of a runway to open up the cars. But, that is not the case. Drives are usually a normal circle around the area. Nothing too fancy. In fact, even if the drivers did want to open up the cars, there is little reason to fear damage to the cars. Mark said, "these are so well engineered today, they are not the Rolls Royces or Lamborghinis of 20 years ago." He says that Lamborghini, for instance, "hot tests" all their engines on a stand, running them at 80%, under strain, to ensure that engines are "broken-in" and fully capable before installation and delivery.  

6. Why buy from you at  St. Louis Motorcars?

Bentley W12s badge

Mark said that "the common denominator with [clients] and me is that they don't want to do this through ten different people."  Mark's motivation appears to be providing a relational, respectful, and truthful service where he strives to earn trust from his customers. Mark mentioned trustworthiness multiple ways. Mark tells me that the shop values the heritage and loyal following of the brands that they sell and you can see this in every detail of store.  

I ask him how someone could get a job like his. He says, "I couldn't have done this in my 30's, I don't think."  He cites the demanding time requirements of the job and the absolute need for steadiness and consistency.  He says that people are "really buying service... young salesmen don't always understand that."

Mark says, "People buy from people."  

Clients need to like you and know with confidence that you will deliver on your word.   

Bentley Continental Flying Spur

That's important in any business, but in a store where someone can make a half million dollar purchase over the phone; the stakes are high.  He looks at me seriously and says,

"I don't take advantage [of people's trust]"  

He continues, "there is a whole lot of the opposite: terrible service, inexperienced people, outright liars… [attempts to] cheat people….  It's not ever my role to talk somebody into a purchase." By the time buyers are talking to Mark they have already decided to purchase something, and he sees it as his job to help them get what they want and work through the administrative process. The cars may be glamorous, but behind the scenes is a lot of phone calls and organization.

7. OK, so how does somebody get a test-drive?  

Mark makes it clear. If you aren't able or prepared to buy the car, you're not getting a test drive. He says, "people may think it is uppity or whatever, but it is really a business decision. These cars are very mileage sensitive and our insurance just doesn't allow it." Sorry.  

2018 Bentley Flying Spur V8 S Black Edition

8. What do you want people to know?

Mark thinks hard about this and laughs a bit. Finally he says, "I can't buy these cars, I just happen to work in the industry." He realizes that he's like the proverbial kid in a candy store, but that the candy is out of reach. Mark is a family man and takes his job seriously. He says, "I am an average guy who loves my family, and my God, and now my grandkids, which is unbelievable." Mark obviously has his priorities straight. 

For we enthusiasts out there, Mark wants us all to know that the public is always welcome to see - but not touch - the cars. The public is welcome in the showroom. There is a hotel right next door to the dealership and every Monday morning the shop has to clean the windows from all the hand and forehead prints of people trying to peer through the glass at the cars.  

 He assured me, "You're welcome to visit."

If you're in St. Louis and you want to see some jaw dropping cars, go to St. Louis Motorcars. You don't have to squint through the windows to see the cars. If you are blessed to actually buy your dream car, ask for Mark, he's going to earn your trust.

I run around the dealership taking a few more pictures while Mark waited for me by the door. I shake his hand and thank him for the opportunity. Mark jumps in his vehicle to make it to his grandson's soccer game. Rolling down the window he laughs and yells, "The Lamborghini salesman drives a Honda Element!"

 Mark Wetzel, St Louis Autocars, Dec 16, 2019

 Pleasant touring,

-Ben Auto

(Interview was conducted on October 19, 2019 at St. Louis Motorcars in Chesterfield, MO., Article updated December 16, 2019)

 
 
 
 

Contact Us