As car enthusiasts bid farewell to the long-standing car news website Autoblog.com, which will cease to exist on September 13, 2024, it marks the end of an era in automotive journalism. With a legacy of covering every bit of automotive news for the past 20 years, Autoblog has left an indelible mark on the industry. Despite any past adversarial relationships with other car websites like Jalopnik, there is a unanimous acknowledgment among former staff members and contributors that Autoblog and its dedicated team deserved better.
Reflecting on the origins of Autoblog, it’s worth noting that the site’s philosophy was to provide comprehensive coverage of the auto industry, a mission it fulfilled diligently over the years. The merging of Autoblog and AOL Autos under the leadership of Sharon Carty marked a significant turning point for the site, bringing together a team of passionate car enthusiasts and industry professionals. This period of growth and collaboration laid the foundation for the site’s success and influence in the automotive journalism landscape.
The camaraderie and sense of community among the Autoblog team were evident in the shared memories and experiences of former staff members. From road trips across the country to covering auto shows with unparalleled enthusiasm, the team at Autoblog approached their work with passion and dedication. The long hours, late nights, and relentless pursuit of breaking news stories were all part of the full-contact form of auto journalism that defined Autoblog’s approach.
As the current staff bids a final goodbye to Autoblog, it’s clear that the site’s impact transcends its digital presence. With nearly 159,000 posts, 43,000 photo galleries, 848 podcasts, and 5,000 videos, Autoblog has left a lasting legacy in the automotive media landscape. From track-testing exotic sports cars to off-roading adventures in remote corners of the world, Autoblog’s coverage has been both comprehensive and influential.
Amidst the nostalgia and reflection on the past, former editors and contributors like John Neff and Mike Austin share their insights and memories of their time at Autoblog. For Neff, Autoblog was a launching pad for his career in automotive journalism, providing invaluable experience and opportunities that shaped his future endeavors. Austin fondly remembers the camaraderie and positive vibe among the editorial staff, highlighting the dedication and hard work that went into producing quality content for the site.
For Steve Ewing, who served as Managing Editor at Autoblog for seven years, the site’s evolution from a scrappy blog to a professional outlet was a transformative experience. The friendships, inside jokes, and shared experiences at Autoblog have left a lasting impact on Ewing’s personal and professional growth. His sentiment of gratitude and nostalgia echoes the sentiments of many former staff members who have fond memories of their time at Autoblog.
As Autoblog transitions into a new chapter under new ownership, the uncertainty of its future looms large. The potential for AI bots to generate content and the commercialization of digital brands raise concerns about the preservation of the site’s legacy and values. In a rapidly changing media landscape where acquisitions and mergers are common, the importance of treating employees with respect and valuing their contributions cannot be overstated.
In conclusion, the legacy of Autoblog as a pioneering car news website will endure in the hearts and minds of car enthusiasts and industry professionals alike. As we say farewell to Autoblog, we remember the passion, dedication, and camaraderie that defined the site’s spirit. May the road rise for Autoblog as it embarks on a new journey, leaving behind a rich history of automotive journalism and storytelling.