Road Tripper

What usually influences your car choice? For family-oriented individuals, the first question that crosses their mind is: Is it family-friendly? For women, almost certainly the question is: Is it classy? Men will probably ask, “Is it fast and trendy?” Well, of course, car choices vary depending on the lifestyle and other individual differences of car buyers.

But did you know that another influential factor has just emerged in the auto industry? It’s none other than pets. Yes, pets. According to Kathryn Segura, movie industry and animal trainer, more and more shoppers as well as companies nowadays have their pets in mind in buying and marketing various products.

AutoChannel cited a study conducted by American Pet Products Manufacturer Association (APPMA) which revealed that in 2007, Americans spent about $40 billion dollars on their pets. In fact, DogCat radio, America’s radio station for both pet lovers and their pets, awarded Ford Motor Company as the “Pet Friendliest Automaker” for its broad access of vehicle models that deliver safety, comfort and easy entry for pets.

According to Adrian Martinez, chief executive officer of CatDog radio station, Ford’s Taurus X passed all the criteria required by the award including fuel economy, cost-effectiveness, spaciousness, safety and of course, creature comforts.

A mid-size crossover sport-utility vehicle, Martinez considered the Ford Taurus X as a perfect family car with just the right size, safety and value. It can accommodate about six to seven passengers. It is powered by a V-6 engine that produces 263 horsepower with an automatic transmission. It also features an advance electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes that are most probably equipped with a quality brake caliper and a total of six airbags for the driver as well as for the passengers.

Los Angeles-based DogCat radio station that features music, news and reviews, received the “Wave of the Future” Award from People for Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA).