Changes by the bunches expected in 2019

A menu of Mark Glover’s AutoGlo car reviews can be seen on the Business page of The Sacramento Bee’s website – www.sacbee.com/news/business/article4005306.html

Sacramento, California -- It's hard to believe another year has passed, with a flurry of heart-pumping test drives, incredible changes in the auto industry and yet more significant shifts in the world of auto racing.

The coming year promises to bring more changes.

Automakers are increasingly embracing electric vehicle technology and are pushing the envelope with EVs that will travel farther, and more efficiently, than ever before.  There are plenty of good sedans still to be had, but the trend of smaller crossovers is solidly entrenched and will continue to expand.  The days of the family sedan appear to be numbered, but those vehicles are not yet extinct.

Horsepower keeps increasing in the performance and exotic car segments.  You have to wonder where that will end.  I'm not sure I trust myself with 800 or more horses under the hood.  Seems like you should be required to have special license training before taking command of some of these rides.  Just sayin'

Expect more moderate-size SUVs in 2019, but they will be rolling off the line with a wider range of power plant options ... everything from super-economical four-bangers to hybrids to full-on electrics.  This trend will be accompanied by a continued expansion of electric vehicle-charging infrastructure, especially in car-crazy California.  I expect to be behind the steering wheels of the most diverse group of test vehicles ever in 2019.  I can't wait.

In the major auto racing series, much needs to be done, in my view.  NASCAR needs to shorten its races, cut back on its schedule and walk away from relentless rule changes.  And the sanctioning body needs to win back fans by marketing its younger stars.  Will they listen to me?  I doubt it, but I've said it.

Formula One simply needs to be more competitive. I'm encouraged by the fact that the governing body appears to recognize this and is trying to take steps to provide more competitive races.  As for IndyCar, it's getting a dose of Formula One talent in 2019, and it is venturing to some new venues. All good news.  The series needs to be more than the Indy 500 in May.

So, yes, there will be lots to write about in 2019.  As always, thanks for dropping in to read.  Here's wishing all of you a safe, happy and prosperous 2019.  I'll be seeing you up the road.