2024-01-24 -- EV or ICE

"I often find myself in discussions with individuals who express skepticism towards electric vehicles. This conservative sentiment, rooted in a desire to preserve tradition and resist change, often manifests in the form of misinformation and fear-mongering.

It's perplexing to see how those who are so fiercely protective of their heritage, nationality, and cultural identity can be so resistant to technological progress. This paradox highlights a deep-seated anxiety about the future and a reluctance to embrace new ideas. It's a mindset that can be both frustrating and alarming."

The very idea of an electric drivetrain seems to both frighten and infuriate them.

The sight of multiple exhaust pipes spewing pollutants into the air fills them with a strange sense of satisfaction.

As a young car enthusiast, I used to collect pictures of my favorite cars from magazines, newspapers, and occasionally, car catalogs. I’d cut out the images and paste them into notebooks, carefully noting down the details I found most exciting.

I’d typically include information like:

Engine Size: How big the engine was, often measured in liters.
Horsepower: How powerful the engine was.
Transmission: Whether it was automatic or manual.
Body Style: Whether it was a sedan, coupe, convertible, or station wagon.
Special Features: Cool features like spoilers, sunroofs, or leather interiors.

My love affair with cars began in 1975 when my parents purchased a thrilling E10 LCI 1975 BMW 2002. It was the most exciting car I'd ever experienced.

In 1978, a facelifted B1 VW Passat joined our family fleet. This car played a significant role in shaping my life, as it was the vehicle I learned to drive in, along with my siblings.

While these cars might seem modest by today's standards, they were once seen as superior to the sluggish French, unreliable Japanese, and gas-guzzling American cars of the time. Of course, my true automotive love was the iconic 1978 Pontiac Firebird, made famous by James Garner(1) in "The Rockford Files(2)."

Stock Picture See Credits (3)

There's a certain charm to the world of automotive aesthetics, where subjective preferences reign supreme. Whether it's the exterior color, interior materials, or design flourishes, people often form strong opinions that defy logic.

While factors like safety, visibility, and even potential societal biases may influence our choices, ultimately, car color is a matter of personal taste. A color that one person finds appealing may be off-putting to another. For instance, while pink might not be your preference, it's worth noting that societal norms around color have shifted over time.

Ultimately, the joy of cars lies in their diversity. Whether it's a classic, a sports car, or a family sedan, each vehicle offers a unique blend of style and function.

“The generally accepted rule is pink for the boys, and blue for the girls. The reason is that pink, being a more decided and stronger color, is more suitable for the boy, while blue, which is more delicate and dainty, is prettier for the girl —” Article in the trade publication Earnshaw’s Infants’ Department, June 1918 (4)

It's fascinating how certain colors can evoke such strong emotional responses. Le Mans Blue, with its rich, deep hue, is a classic choice that continues to captivate car enthusiasts. While some may find it understated or even boring, others are drawn to its timeless elegance. Ultimately, the beauty of cars lies in their ability to stir individual passions and preferences.

It's understandable why some people prefer traditional manual or automatic transmissions over CVTs and DCTs. The tactile experience and direct mechanical connection offered by these older technologies can be appealing. However, it's important to acknowledge the significant advancements in CVT and DCT technology, which have improved fuel economy, performance, and smoothness of operation.

Ultimately, the best transmission for an individual depends on their driving style and priorities. While some may prefer the engaging feel of a manual or the simplicity of a traditional automatic, others may find the efficiency and convenience of a CVT or DCT more appealing.

Absolutely, practicality often trumps personal preference. When faced with limited options, we'll often compromise. A pink car with a CVT might not be my ideal choice, but it would still get me from point A to point B. I've even driven a similar car in the past.

It's a testament to our adaptability and ability to find joy in unexpected places, even if it's a slightly less-than-ideal vehicle.

But I prefer these:

And I like to drive them the way they meant to be driven:

I'm a bit of a petrolhead, always yearning for the thrill of a powerful engine and the rush of speed.

Over the years, I've had the privilege of owning cars with some truly impressive engines. Here are a few highlights:.

V8 overload! Two of these mighty engines, roaring and ready to rumble.

And let's not forget this twin-turbo V8 monster!

The silky-smooth inline-six, a timeless classic that every BMW enthusiast knows and loves.

The allure was too strong. I embarked on a cross-state journey to Arizona to bring this unique gem home.

Little did I know, this unassuming car would transform my life.

Little did I know, a new era was dawning. The electric revolution had begun.

The past 15 years have seen me delve into the world of car forums, particularly Bimmerpost(5). These online havens have been invaluable sources of knowledge, fostering discussions and helping me become a true car aficionado.

I recently stumbled upon an article about BMW's upcoming i5 Touring, a sleek electric wagon that's sure to turn heads

I caused quite a stir when I declared my readiness to put down a deposit for the BMW i5 M60, a car that could potentially replace my beloved Turing.

It was disheartening to see such ignorance and misinformation about electric vehicles. The environmental benefits are clear, and the technology is rapidly advancing. It was fascinating how some people are more concerned about the noise of an engine than the health of our planet. I guess they prefer the symphony of honking horns and diesel fumes over the quiet purr of an electric motor.

The irony is palpable. While the planet is burning, some people are more concerned about the loss of a few jobs in the fossil fuel industry than the health of our planet. It's frustrating to see such short-sighted thinking. The transition to electric vehicles will create countless new jobs, from manufacturing to infrastructure development.

BMW's success in the electric vehicle market is a clear indicator of the industry's future(6). As more and more companies like Tesla, Rivian, Lucid, Fisker, and BYD innovate and grow, the automotive landscape is undergoing a radical transformation.

In the early 1900s, as automobiles began to rumble off assembly lines, a wave of disruption swept across society. The horse-drawn carriage era, once a cornerstone of urban life, faced extinction. Imagine a world filled with horse-drawn carriages, where jobs depended on equine health, and streets were littered with...well, horse waste. But as the automobile rose to prominence, these traditional industries began to fade into the rearview mirror. Despite initial resistance, the inevitable march of progress prevailed, and today, horse-drawn carriages are relegated to special events and tourist attractions.

Just as the horse-drawn carriage became a relic of the past, so too will the roaring V8 engine. These mechanical marvels, once symbols of power and freedom, will likely find new homes in museums, private collections, and car shows.

Embracing the future of electric vehicles is not just a choice; it's a necessity. By accelerating the transition to clean energy, we can safeguard our planet, secure a brighter future for generations to come, and stimulate economic growth through the creation of countless green jobs. From manufacturing electric vehicles to developing cutting-edge battery technology and expanding charging infrastructure, the opportunities are endless.

Just one drive in pure electric mode, and you'll understand why the future of mobility is electric.