Acura of Boston Supports The Boys and Girls Club of Dorchester

 

Bernardi Auto Group is a proud sponsor of many civic, youth, education, cultural and athletic organizations in the communities it serves.  We have a long and proud heritage of giving back to the residents of Greater Boston, MetroWest and MetroSouth areas through our support of these groups that are the heart and character of the region.

The Boston Globe recently announced its new GRANT (Globe Readers and Non-Profits Together) partnership (https://services.bostonglobe.com/grant/default.aspx)  through which print and electronic subscribers can vote for the non-profit organizations of their choice to receive complimentary advertising in the Globe and on Boston.com.  As few as 150 votes will earn a quarter page ad; the more votes earned by a non-profit, the more ad space!  This free advertising will allow these important groups to spread their word without dipping into precious operating dollars and help support and expand their mission. 

We know that many of our clients and visitors to our website read the Globe in print version or online.  When you receive your gift check, simply name the organization of your choice and return the check to the Globe.  A great way to support a worthy cause!

Like you, Bernardi Auto Group has a special relationship with certain charitable organizations, and we probably share the support of several groups in common.  We encourage Globe readers to vote for their preferred charity; here is our list.  Please consider this organization as recipient of your GRANT gift check.

Acura of Boston Supports The Boys and Girls Club of Dorchester

The Rise of Electrical and Green Vehicles. What do you think?

It was prophesied by cartoons and books that in the 21 century we would now be living in a world where flying cars existed. Technology however has not caught up as quickly as believed, but significant developments have been made in the green and electrical vehicle production. The majority of the vehicles that are out on the roads are gas-powered engines. Electrical vehicles are now beginning to become more popular with many different companies. With the rise of gas prices continuously over the years the introduction of green vehicles have become more popular among consumers. The question to ask now is how successful will these electrical vehicles be in the coming years?  

From standard companies to luxury vehicles, more companies are seeing the potential and growth that can come from the development of this new market. From a business standpoint, companies are noticing the power of the green effect and how many consumers are looking for a way to cut costs in their spending. The big picture to look at is how long will it take for consumers to see the potential of these vehicles. What do you think about electrical and green vehicles and do you believe it has the potential to change the automotive industry?

Holiday Driving Tips

“It’s the most wonderful time of the year!” Right? Right?  Um…hello?  Ok, so maybe once the gifts are wrapped, the food is prepared and Santa has left an abundance of presents and cookie crumbs, then you can take a breather and enjoy the holiday cheer.  These next couple weeks will be hectic, we know.  It’s a great time of the year, but the stress that goes into it can be overwhelming.  There’s hope, however.  In today’s blog, we’re providing some quick tips for navigating your holiday season safely. 

1.)   If you’re going on a road trip, please make sure your car is serviced properly.  Come into our dealership anytime for oil, brake fluid and tire condition checks.

2.)   SLEEP WELL.  Get a good night’s sleep before you venture into the world.

3.)   Plan your route; this will help you in the long run.  Unsafe detours can be dangerous and expensive.

4.)   Bring a paper map.  GPS is the wave of the future, but a paper map can act as backup if you’re GPS malfunctions.

5.)   Buy snacks and drinks before you leave, because stocking up at gas stations can be costly.

6.)   Tell at least 1 family member where you’re headed.  So, if something happens, you have a reliable person to get the message out.

7.)   DO NOT announce on social media that you’re leaving for vacation.  Secure your home and leave at least one light on.  This will detract burglars from your home.

8.)   Leave early.  If the common rush hour time is 9:30, leave a couple hours early to compensate for time.

Do you have any tips to add?  Feel free!  Have a safe drive and HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!

SHOCK and Awe: Avoiding Shock Treatment When Exiting Your Car

We’ve all been there.  You’re casually cruising in your car, glancing over to peer at your German Shepard as he soaks in the sun from an open window.  You stop for gas and begin to exit the vehicle, and you’re greeted with a quick jolt of static electricity.  Bzzt!  In today’s blog, we’re providing you with some quick tips to avoiding the shock treatment. 

1.    Be cautious of clothing – fleeces and synthetic materials can increase your risk of shock.

2.    Grip the frame of the door to expel static charge – Having your hand on the car frame when you get up lets it discharge more slowly. 

3.    Watch your shoes – Beach shoes with foam soles are conducive to static electricity, be careful!

4.    Touch the glass – as your exit your vehicle.  This option discharges any electricity and avoids shock.

5.    Hold a key in your hand and touch the metal doorframe as you exit.  It acts as a lightning rod and discharges the static without pain.

Static shock may seem like a minor issue for the average driver, but these tips are actually meant for your safety.  Static electricity has the capacity to cause small explosions at the gas pump.  You should NEVER re-enter your car while gassing up, as this could provide MORE static electricity build up.  If you have another tip for us, please comment below!

Distracted Driving: Car Safety Regulators Mount Up

The year is 2013. In a digital world, we’re connected to our devices like an extended limb. We keep them close by, and by the flick of a wrist can perform a plethora of activities within seconds. From games, to phone calls, and bank statements, our gadgets can do almost anything. Devices like the iPhone, and other smartphones can make life easier, but what happens when they move from being a helpful aid to a distracting nuisance?

The National Transportation Safety Board cited 2010 crash data that indicated 17 percent of crashes reported to police involved driver distraction, but only 3 percent of those crashes involved the use of in-car onboard devices. We’re distracted. That’s the bottom line. I can’t recall how many times I’ve seen a fellow driver send a quick text or take a call while driving. It’s extremely dangerous.

The NHTSA held hearings that will be presented to crack down on cellphone/ smartphone usage. “Distracted driving is unsafe, irresponsible and can have deadly consequences,” NHTSA Administrator David Strickland said Monday at the first of three hearings held last week in Washington, Chicago and Los Angeles.

In December, the National Transportation Safety Board recommended states ban all use of portable cellphones. We have to begin to govern ourselves in our vehicles. We enjoy servicing every consumer correctly and we want to make sure you’re safe on and off of our lot. Drive safely! Distracted driving is a HUGE threat, how are you avoiding using your smartphone in the car?

7 Things You Should Have in Your Car

Ok, as an individual who enjoys a tidy workspace, I can understand why you wouldn’t want to be compared to the vehicle equivalent of the individuals on the TV show: “Hoarders.”  We also want you to keep safe while you make your daily commute, so we’re feeling a bit conflicted.  In most cases, your vehicle is well equipped with the necessary tools to run smoothly.  In today’s blog, with help from The Simple Dollar, we provide a list of some extra essentials that could aid you daily.

1.    Owner’s manual This should naturally be in your glove compartment anyway, but you want to make sure that it is indeed in your car.

2.    Maps Keep a detailed map of the state you’re in in your car at all times – or even a current atlas if you have room. Don’t completely rely on a GPS navigation system.

3.    First aid kit (and manual) This can be vital if you’re in an accident and someone has injuries. Slowing down bleeding quickly can mean the difference between walking something off and going into shock.

4.    Flashlight (and extra batteries) Similarly, a flashlight is utterly essential at night if you need to change a tire.

5.    Bottled water This is necessary for sustenance if you get stuck somewhere and have to wait for a while.

6.    Food! Non-perishables, need we say more?

7.    Umbrella stay dry, my friends.

Advantages of going Green with Automobiles

Today more companies are deciding to make the transition to produce electrical and hybrid version of their vehicles. Many people are also jumping on the bandwagon of not only saving money for themselves, but lessening the carbon footprint they are leaving behind. Here’s a look as to why making the switch to an eco-friendly automobile could be a smart choice.

Financially:

·      If you buy a new eco-friendly car, you may be eligible for as much as $3,000 as a tax credit. However, this does not necessarily apply to every brand and type of hybrid vehicle.

·      Your insurance company may offer lower rates on some eco friendly automobiles.

·      Your wallet will be thanking you. By switching to an electric powered or hybrid vehicle you will be saving and spending half as much on fuel or none at all.

Environmentally:

·      By eliminating the use of fuel it will lead to less pollution and will reduce harmful effects on the environment.

·      Using less or no oil at all limits the amount of carbon emissions that are released into the air and helps to have a lesser a chance of polluting water and land sources.

Car costs:

·      Most of the green vehicles are more fuel efficient in comparison to standard gas powered vehicles. By making the switch you will be sure to see a major improvement in your gas mileage.

·      Not only will you be saving on the road, but also limiting the amount of time your car needs to be spend in the shop.  Eco friendly vehicles are built differently in regards to handling and operating causing less maintenance.    

Making the switch seems like a smart choice to and beneficial financially and environmentally in the long run.