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
Categories: Automotive News
Last Friday was the last day of production for Chrysler's one-time best seller, the PT Cruiser. The PT Cruiser debuted in the spring of 2000 as a 2001 model, and I remember seriously considering one as they were arriving on local dealer lots. What ultimately kept me from purchasing a PT was the dealer greed that had them charging between $3,000 and $10,000 over MSRP (for a vehicle that started at $16,000 and topped out around $22,000). 
