AutoLooks Podcast

Why the Proposed 401 Tunnel is a Misguided Solution to Toronto's Traffic Woes

As Toronto grapples with ever-increasing traffic congestion, the province of Ontario is considering a drastic solution: burying a tunnel beneath the 401 highway. However, this approach raises more questions than answers and may not be the panacea that officials hope for. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the complexities surrounding this proposed proj...

      In this episode, we explore the world of bad automotive designs, examining how historical context, consumer demand, and market trends influence the creation of vehicles that often miss the mark aesthetically. We discuss iconic failures like the Pontiac Aztec and AMC Gremlin, and how these designs, despite their flaws, found a niche in the market. The conversation delves into the 'ugly duckling' phenomenon, where vehicles that...

       What's driving the revival of off-road utility vehicles, and why are they capturing the imagination of a new generation? Our latest episode explores this trend, questioning the necessity of the myriad off-road options swamping the market beyond stalwarts like the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco. We trace the evolution of the SUV landscape, from the robust early models to the rise of CUVs in the 2000s, and spotlight regions lik...

       Unlock the secrets of one of Canada's most influential automotive dynasties, where innovation and ambition intertwined to shape the industry as we know it. Tune in to hear the remarkable origins of McLaughlin Motors, beginning with Robert McLaughlin's groundbreaking work in 1867, the same year Canada was officially born. Discover how his patented fifth wheel mechanism not only set a new standard for comfort and safety in car...

      Can Canada secure its economic future by forging unexpected alliances? Discover why it's crucial for Canada to rethink its trade relationships in the wake of U.S. protectionist measures. By considering a partnership China, Canada can potentially revitalize its auto industry, historically linked with the United States through policies like the Auto Pact. We explore the shifting dynamics as major automakers such as Ford, GM, an...

     Can a heritage brand redefine itself without losing its soul?  Join us as we explore the complex world of automotive branding and identity in our latest episode.  Discover the historical pitfalls that led to the downfall of renowned brands like BMC, Triumph and American Motors, with their identity crises and missed opportunities for consolidation and reinvention. Tune in for a comprehensive overview of automotive branding and ...

What if the secret to automotive success is hidden in the past? Join us on a nostalgic journey through automotive history, where we uncover the timeless allure of long-running nameplates. From the iconic Suburban and Corolla to the beloved 911 and Mustang, we explore how these models have captivated generation.  So, hold tight as we steer into the significance of long-standing nameplates and their impact on brand perception.

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      Can Nissan recover from its fall from grace and quality left from its failed marriage to Renault?  Join us as we explore how Nissan wound up falling so far out of favour with consumers and the automotive world as a whole.  Follow us as we journey through Nissan’s failed alliance, to the mismanagement from its previous CEO.  We take a look at how this company fell so far and how they can still turn it all around.  This change ...

        Discover how automobiles have been more than just a mode of transportation but at gateway to freedom and personal exploration. This episode transports you through time, from the age of horse-drawn carriages to the dawn of motorized vehicles, as we explore how cars have always been a symbol of freedom. We journey through the evolution of the automobile as a means of escape, a refuge from the mundane, and a catalyst for spont...

Can a vehicle embody the pinnacle of understated luxury while remaining virtually unknown outside its home country? Discover the Toyota Century, a masterpiece of engineering and tradition, which has been the hidden gem in Toyota's crown since 1967. This episode unravels the rich history and cultural significance of the Century, a vehicle that stands above even Lexus in Toyota's hierarchy and serves as the choice of Japan's elite. W...

     What if the vehicles you see as relics are actually the backbone of a thriving automotive industry? Discover how the enduring legacy of older vehicles and how they shape the intricacies and evolution of the automotive industry.  Navigating the future of the old car industry brings its own set of challenges, especially with the rise of electric vehicles and the changing tides brought on by the pandemic. Uncover how these shifts...

What if the sports cars of yesteryear could make a thrilling comeback in today's rapidly evolving automotive world?

The journey through the sports car landscape is as thrilling as the cars themselves, from their European roots in the 1930s to the iconic models that inspired generations. We explore how wartime encounters with nimble roadsters lit a spark that ignited the American market, leading to legendary creations like the Chevr...

Join us as we embark on an exhilarating journey through the evolution of automobile design, exploring key moments and iconic designs that have defined each era. We kick off with a look at how the automobile transitioned from a luxurious, aristocratic toy into a practical vehicle for the masses. Industry giants like Mercedes-Benz, who catered to the elite, and Ford, who made cars accessible to the average person, played pivotal role...