WomanOnWheels.ca

Ten auto innovations that flopped

Automakers are always trying new things, and while many of them turn out to be hits, there are a few that make it to market but then don't make it in the market. How about retractable steering wheels, heartbeat sensors, or in-car record players? Find out more in my story at the National Post (Driving.ca).

General Motors of Canada: A century old in 2018

Of course the big news in Oshawa, Ontario is GM's decision to close its assembly plant there, but the city is also home to the headquarters of General Motors of Canada. It grew out of a horse-drawn carriage company and carried its founder's name, McLaughlin, up until the Second World War. Find out more in my "Rearview Mirror" column at the National Post.

McLaughlin Day in Oshawa

It was McLaughlin Day in Oshawa today -- the city names the civic holiday for GM of Canada founder Sam McLaughlin, who set up his company in the city (and ironically, while many businesses were closed for the day, the GM factories toiled).

The McLaughlin-Buick Club of Canada hosts an annual meet that moves to various locations each year, but for the company's 100th anniversary, it came home to Parkwood, McLaughlin's home and now a museum. Some 95 cars paraded through Oshawa's streets and ended up at the estate for a show. I'll be writing a couple of stories on it, but for now, let me tell you, there were some magnificent cars there, including a 1937 model that was driven to the show from Indiana. This 1932 in the photo came in from Alberta, and there was one from Maine. Although they weren't sold in the US, they sometimes show up at auctions and sales there, and American collectors seem to love them for their rarity. We just love them up here 'cause they look so nice.