It is with mixed emotions I make this final blog entry for Karl on Cars. Starting tomorrow this blog (using the same Web address) will transform into "Edmunds CarPool" and feature input from across the entire Edmunds.com editorial staff.
I've been blogging under the Karl on Cars heading for over four years, though for the past year the majority of my "blog posts" have simply come from my Twitter feed. I know many readers weren't thrilled with that shift, and I fully admit it had limits (140 of them, to be exact).
That's why whatever disappointment I may have about Karl on Cars coming to an end it is more than eclipsed by the beginning of "Edmunds CarPool." This new blog will go back to at least one full-fledged post a day (often more) and will feature a vast array of commentary courtesy of the entire editorial staff. Getting more folks involved means more content, and not just basic text and photography but short video clips, near-real-time reporting and industry access as well.
Think of CarPool as the editorial staff's way of connecting directly with you, the reader. We'll throw out thoughts on everything from test cars passing through the test fleet to live updates during new model press events to car show commentary (starting with the L.A. Auto Show this week). You'll also hear our personal takes on industry news and trends, including my weekly Talk Back Tuesday post. We'll take pictures, shoot video and provide links to related content, both within the Edmunds properties and across the Web.
Of course we'll need to hear from you as well. We may have access to all these cool cars and interesting automotive people, but it will take feedback to maximize the fun. Got a question for Bob Lutz or Carlos Ghosn? Have a strong opinion regarding the design of the new Cadillac CTS Coupe? Is there a comparison test you'd particularly like to see Edmunds take on? That's why we created CarPool. Whenever possible we'll provide advance notice on content planning so you can provide direction on what you'd like to see and hear.
Yeah, this "look behind the curtain" can strike terror into the hearts of old-school publishers, but it's 2010 and the audience isn't just listening anymore, they're participating. Actually, that's where the name "CarPool" comes from.
We're happy to drive, but we'll need you to supply the conversation. Pick you up tomorrow morning.
Karl Brauer, Editor in Chief, Edmunds.com
By pat1usmc
on November 30, 2009
04:47 AM
Sounds like a great idea, I'm looking forward to it! More eclectic commentary and a post every day means I can spend even more time on this site...
(although you also said this tweeting nonsense was going to be good too.)
By ahightower
on November 30, 2009
06:38 AM
I also think it's a great move and will spark some fun discussions.
Great photo, BTW, and very poetic.
By estreka
on November 30, 2009
08:57 AM
I'm really looking forward to a change. Happy trails, Karl.
By moparbad
on November 30, 2009
09:45 PM
As a longtime reader I'm asking you to consider a slight change in plans.
Don't end Karl on Cars, keep the Karl on Cars heading for your posts. No more tweets is a welcome change.
As to changing to CarPool and including more views I expect that will be an appreciated change for the better.
Again, change the blog to CarPool, and keep "Karl on Cars" for you contributions.
By pat1usmc
on December 1, 2009
06:47 AM
Or just put them together. "KarlPool" sounds good.
By 1487
on December 1, 2009
07:09 AM
good idea. Blogging by Twitter was pointless. This sounds much more interesting and its a good idea to let the readers shape the questions that are asked and the tests that are done.
By rayainsw
on December 2, 2009
04:06 AM
"..my Twitter feed. I know many readers weren't thrilled with that shift, and I fully admit it had limits (140 of them, to be exact)."
Very happy to hear this!
Miss your views from the previous format...
- Ray
By brett8210
on December 2, 2009
02:59 PM
I always thought the twitter stuff did not allow any real discussion. But I was always looking forward to your Tuesday blog.
I now know to come look every day. Thank you for this change. But please do not stop your pointed comments on here.
By opfreakx
on December 3, 2009
07:17 AM
so how is this any different then straightline, or edmunds daily?
By dougtheeng
on December 3, 2009
10:00 AM
i just noticed this new blog on the site today. i stopped reading karl on cars once it went to tweets, which was a real shame because i used to LOVE the blog but i hate hate hate twitter. it stands for everything wrong with the internet and the media.
looking forward to this new format.
-doug
By genius163
on December 7, 2009
02:19 PM
Why is the "P" capitalized in "Carpool?" It's ridiculous.