As you know from an earlier post, I am attending the Chicago Auto Show as a member of the media. My media passes arrived, my route is planned, my stay at the Chicago South Loop Hotel has been booked and people have volunteered to put me up on the way there and back.
I have to admit, I’m getting excited (and a little nervous) about the trip. One of the people, in the Chevy Volt Owner’s Group on Facebook, posted today that his Volt was totaled, after being broadsided by someone running a red light. Being from the South, I have limited experience driving in snow and ice. I have driven in the occasional snow and ice storms in Houston (believe it or not) and the DFW area. On business trips, I have driven on wintry roads in Wisconsin, Minnesota, New Hampshire, Illinois, Ontario, and more, but it’s always been in a rental car. This time, it’s my baby on the road. My skin is in the game.
I want to make sure I’m properly prepared for the experience, packing things I’ll need for just about any contingency. I’m going to have hat, coats and gloves of course. I’m also taking my hiking boots, in case I get stranded, on the road somewhere. I’ll probably pack food and water as well. I would appreciate any tips from you experienced northern drivers. When you’re planning a long Winter’s drive, what are the necessities you take along?
Unfortunately a friend, who is a skilled videographer and editor, is unable to make the trip. Consequently, I’m looking for someone to shoot video at the show. If you live in the Chicago area, know how to shoot video and would like to attend the show, before it opens to the public, let me know.
I’d also like to meet fellow EV owners while I’m in Chicago. Let’s get together, enjoy a beer or three and take a group photo around our vehicles! Ideally, I’d like to do that Friday evening or Saturday morning. Send an email, if you’d like to get together. I haven’t made many evening plans. Nissan is hosting a dinner the evening I arrive, so I’m planning on attending that. I’d like to see a show at Second City, if possible. (maybe that’s a good place to get together with fellow EVers!)
Keep an eye on this blog, starting February 5th, as I’ll be reporting about my travel experiences at each stop along the way. I’ll update the map, showing where I am at each stop as well as shooting video, when possible. A longer video will be available a short while after I get back, once it is edited.
(and yes, although I go by Buzz, my legal name is Richard)
Comments