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I was inspired by Megan Tietz who writes over at SortaCrunchy when she discussed “A Month for Mama.” As a mom with 6 month old twin boys, and two other girls, she has her hands full with taking care of other family members. As I read through her post about trying to carve out some “me” time, it resonated with me. My little Connor is now 12 weeks old and I was feeling the need to get out a little by myself. When I got the opportunity to test drive the new Chevy Volt electric car, it gave me a little extra motivation to get out of the house for some “me” time.

Chevy Volt test drive

JJ wanted to go for a drive in the electric car.

Monday night~ Got out after the kids went to bed for a little drive in the car. Couldn’t believe how quiet it was…both the car and the lack of noise from the back seat.

Chevy Volt ride

Madison got to go for a ride and tested out a new booster seat for the occasion.

Tuesday~ Snuck out with Madison to Trader Joe’s…just the girls. So easy to get out with just one child, it was a treat! I wonder what cars will be fueled with when she is old enough to drive…

Wednesday~ A haircut. Finally. Connor made the trip with me in the new car and was happy to snuggle with Beth, my hairstylist at Creative Expressions, while I enjoyed some magazine reading under the dryer.

Life gets in the way the other days…but my husband took it out for a spin. Thought it was cool, just a bit small for his 6’4″ frame.

volt ride

Sunday~ FINALLY got out for pedicure. Hooray!

volt vs minivan

Time to say goodbye to the Chevy Volt…back to minivan land.

How do you make time for yourself during the week?

I appreciate the opportunity to test drive the Chevy Volt and this is not a paid post. All opinions expressed here are my own. 

 

Ford Energi presentation

Today I got to check out some of the latest and greatest updates in the car industry.  The most exciting thing is all the advances happening in the world of fuel efficiency. At this year’s New England International Auto Show happening in Boston this weekend, there are 20 cars that get 30-40+ miles per gallon. As car companies prepare for the strict standards of the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) in the future, they are making great strides now offering hybrids, electric vehicles and more efficient power train technology. Since we are in the market for a new car, it was a fun opportunity for me to see a bunch of brands in one place to do some comparison shopping. I will say it was amazing how many funny looks I got from all the men in attendance as I arrived with my toddler in tow to listen to the green presentation by Ford. Don’t they know the ladies care about what they drive??

It's amazing to see 47 mpg on the Ford Fusion Energi

It’s amazing to see 47 mpg on the Ford Fusion Energi

I went specifically to the Auto Show in Boston today to hear from Dr. Mazen Hammoud, Ford’s chief engineer of electrified powertrain systems. He is the guy who can talk green. The new Ford highlighted was the Fusion Energi, a plug-in hybrid. For customers interested in buying a hybrid, fuel economy and mileage are the #1 decision makers. In a recent report, JD Power ranked Ford ahead of Toyota in fuel economy. I love that an American car company is making such an impact in the market, and is able to offer an electric vehicle in a mid-sized sedan. No tiny little electric vehicle here, you wouldn’t even realize it’s electric except for the glowing plug-in spot on the driver’s side. Also, the new Ford Energi charges faster and holds the charge longer than the Prius.

All new Ford Fusion Energi Plug In Hybrid

All new Ford Fusion Energi Plug In Hybrid

Dr. Hammoud also taught the audience that in order to maximize your charge, you need to be mindful of your driving habits. Driving over 80 mph is not efficient, but we all know that right? Also, heavy braking also decreases the charge of the car as well. Even if you don’t have an electric vehicle, these are good reminders anyway to maximize your mpg in your car.

The New England Auto Show is taking place now at the Boston Convention and Exhibit Center, located down in the Seaport district.

Here are the hours:

Thursday, January 17, 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Friday, January 18, 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Saturday, January 19, 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Sunday, January 20, 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Monday, January 21, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

While you are there, there are a number of companies offering you a chance to drive some of the models. If you are in the market for a new car, this could be a great opportunity to do some test drives hassle free.

We are trying to pick our next car and having lots of debates about SUV versus a minivan…anyone have a favorite with a third row? I want something with fuel efficiency but some SUVs  now have comparable mpg. Would love to hear what car you are loving right now!