TRACY – Times are changing in the automotive world.

Technology is king. Hybrid vehicles are a regular fixture on area highways and roads. Balancing fuel and electronic power equals a more eco-friendly and cost-saving vehicle of choice.

Nissan has been instrumental in the development of hybrid technology and has been putting a quality option on the road with the Altima Hybrid.

Now Nissan is the first to put out a full-electronic vehicle (Leaf) for purchase by the public. It won’t be too long before electric chargers will accompany standard fuel pumps.

In fact, for the past few decades, Nissan has been at the forefront of modern vehicle technology while putting out a quality product for local consumer.

For many years, Nissan has been an established dealership in the Manteca area. While locations have changed, value and tradition remains the same as always.

Part of that tradition is Don Maliepaard.

He grew up next door in Ripon and found his calling in the automotive industry and repair industry while he was still in high school, with working on cars being his hobby.

After high school, Maliepaard went to the military, spending several years serving his country. It was there he worked on Army jeeps and heavy-duty trucks.

When he returned home, Maliepaard found the foundation of his future at Manteca Datsun.

Manteca Datsun eventually became Country Nissan and Don Maliepaard became a more experienced technician during the passing years.

Nissan was expanding as was upstart Kia Motors and both wanted to stake their claim in the Valley. Thanks to a combined effort, they found a way to make it work; Kia was established in Manteca and Nissan moved down the road to Tracy.

As for Maliepaard, he became a master technician. He knew Nissan much like the back of his hand and was the “go-to guy” for the new technicians coming up. Even the seasoned technician would search him out for sound advice.

Quality workmanship is something Maliepaard takes seriously as does Tracy Nissan.

 With the assistance of Nissan engineers and instructors, he has helped mold the current crew of certified technicians in Manteca and the surrounding areas. Customers, in turn, have come to know and trust Maliepaard and his fellow staff.

To this day, Don Maliepaard has a strong customer base that refuse to go anywhere else.

He has knowledge of new and old technology, factory training and strong customer service skills.

The real winners here are the Nissan and Infiniti owners in the Manteca area.

Tracy Nissan is located at 3195 Naglee Road.

For more information, call 209-820-6000 or log on to www.tracynissan.net.