Auto Journalist's Content Factory: Multi-Server MCP Integration

1. Introduction
This tutorial demonstrates how automotive journalists and content creators can leverage multiple MCP servers to produce comprehensive, data-driven automotive content. By integrating YouTube Transcript, WebResearch, Replicate Flux, Google Drive, Gmail, Excel, and Puppeteer servers, auto journalists can analyze reviews, generate custom visuals, gather market data, and streamline their content production workflow from research to publication.

**Key Benefits:**

- Extract insights from video reviews and competitor analysis
- Generate custom vehicle renderings and visual content
- Automate pricing and specification data collection
- Track content performance and audience engagement
- Research cutting-edge automotive technology trends
- Streamline pitch and submission processes

**Target Users:**

- Automotive journalists and reviewers
- Car magazine writers
- YouTube automotive content creators
- Freelance auto writers
- Automotive blog owners
- Car comparison website editors
2. System Prompt
You are an advanced AI assistant specializing in automotive journalism, content creation, and industry analysis. You have integrated access to video content analysis, web research, visual generation, data scraping, and content management tools through MCP servers.

Your capabilities include:

**Content Research and Analysis:**

- Extracting key insights from automotive review videos
- Analyzing reviewer opinions and technical discussions
- Identifying unique angles and untold stories
- Comparing multiple reviewer perspectives
- Tracking industry trends and innovations

**Visual Content Creation:**

- Generating custom car renderings in various colors and angles
- Creating comparison infographics
- Designing technical diagrams and cutaways
- Producing eye-catching header images
- Developing visual storytelling elements

**Market Data Collection:**

- Scraping real-time pricing from dealer websites
- Gathering specification comparisons
- Collecting availability and inventory data
- Tracking incentives and promotions
- Monitoring price trends over time

**Technology Research:**

- Investigating latest automotive innovations
- Understanding new powertrain technologies
- Analyzing safety feature developments
- Tracking autonomous driving progress
- Researching sustainability initiatives

**Content Management:**

- Organizing research materials and assets
- Tracking article performance metrics
- Managing editorial calendars
- Coordinating with editors and publications
- Building comprehensive content archives

**Professional Communication:**

- Crafting compelling story pitches
- Developing unique editorial angles
- Building editor relationships
- Managing submission deadlines
- Following up on proposals

When creating automotive content, always:

- Verify technical specifications from multiple sources
- Balance enthusiast interest with general reader appeal
- Maintain objectivity while showing personality
- Include relevant performance and practical data
- Consider both new buyer and enthusiast perspectives
- Stay current with industry developments
3. MCP Servers in this Agent Flow
1. **YouTube Transcript MCP Server**

- **Purpose**: Extract insights from automotive review videos
- **Features**: Transcript extraction, timestamp navigation, opinion analysis
- **Coverage**: Professional reviews, owner experiences, comparison tests

2. **WebResearch MCP Server**

- **Purpose**: Research automotive technology and industry news
- **Capabilities**: Technical specification gathering, trend analysis, news aggregation
- **Sources**: Manufacturer sites, tech blogs, industry publications

3. **Replicate Flux MCP Server**

- **Purpose**: Generate custom automotive visualizations
- **Features**: Car renderings, color variations, angle adjustments
- **Output**: Publication-ready images, concept visualizations

4. **Google Drive MCP Server**

- **Purpose**: Organize content assets and research materials
- **Organization**: Article drafts, images, research notes, pitch templates
- **Collaboration**: Share with editors, backup content

5. **Gmail MCP Server**

- **Purpose**: Professional communication with editors and sources
- **Features**: Pitch emails, follow-ups, source coordination
- **Management**: Track submissions, manage relationships

6. **Excel MCP Server**

- **Purpose**: Track metrics and create comparison charts
- **Analytics**: Article performance, engagement metrics, comparison data
- **Visualization**: Charts, graphs, specification tables

7. **Puppeteer MCP Server**

- **Purpose**: Automated web scraping for pricing and data
- **Capabilities**: Dynamic website navigation, data extraction, screenshot capture
- **Targets**: Dealer sites, configurators, inventory systems

4. MCP Server Setup Prompt

Prerequisites

  • Claude AI access (Claude 3.5 Sonnet or newer recommended)
  • Node.js 18+ installed
  • Google account for Drive and Gmail
  • Replicate API account
  • Excel or compatible spreadsheet software
  • Chrome/Chromium for Puppeteer
  • Basic understanding of automotive terminology

Environment Preparation

  1. API Keys and Authentication
    • YouTube: API key from Google Cloud Console (optional for enhanced features)
    • Replicate: API token from https://replicate.com/account
    • Google Services: OAuth setup for Drive and Gmail
    • Configure Puppeteer with Chrome installation
  2. MCP Server Installation
# Install all required MCP servers
npm install -g @youtube-transcript/mcp-server
    npm install -g @webresearch/mcp-server
    npm install -g @replicate/mcp-server
npm install -g @google-drive/mcp-server
npm install -g @gmail/mcp-server
npm install -g @excel/mcp-server
npm install -g @puppeteer/mcp-server
    

Claude Configuration

Add the following to your Claude MCP configuration:

{
  "servers": {
    "youtube-transcript": {
      "command": "npx",
      "args": ["@youtube-transcript/mcp-server"],
      "env": {
        "YOUTUBE_API_KEY": "optional_youtube_api_key"
      }
    },
    "webresearch": {
      "command": "npx",
      "args": ["@webresearch/mcp-server"],
      "env": {
        "WEBRESEARCH_API_KEY": "your_api_key_if_required"
      }
    },
    "replicate": {
      "command": "npx",
      "args": ["@replicate/mcp-server"],
      "env": {
        "REPLICATE_API_TOKEN": "your_replicate_token"
      }
    },
    "google-drive": {
      "command": "npx",
      "args": ["@google-drive/mcp-server"],
      "env": {
        "GOOGLE_CREDENTIALS": "/path/to/credentials.json",
        "GOOGLE_TOKEN": "/path/to/token.json"
      }
    },
    "gmail": {
      "command": "npx",
      "args": ["@gmail/mcp-server"],
      "env": {
        "GMAIL_CREDENTIALS": "/path/to/gmail/credentials.json",
        "GMAIL_TOKEN": "/path/to/gmail/token.json"
      }
    },
    "excel": {
      "command": "npx",
      "args": ["@excel/mcp-server"],
      "env": {
        "EXCEL_PATH": "/path/to/automotive/spreadsheets"
      }
    },
    "puppeteer": {
      "command": "npx",
      "args": ["@puppeteer/mcp-server"],
      "env": {
        "PUPPETEER_EXECUTABLE_PATH": "/path/to/chrome"
      }
    }
  }
}

5. Step-by-step User Guide

Step 1: Initial Setup and Testing

  1. Verify All Servers Are Connected
"Please verify that all MCP servers are connected: YouTube Transcript, WebResearch, Replicate Flux, Google Drive, Gmail, Excel, and Puppeteer."
    
  1. Test Each Server Individually
    • YouTube: “Extract transcript from Doug DeMuro’s latest review”
    • WebResearch: “Find latest news about electric vehicle technology”
    • Replicate: “Generate a test image of a red sports car”
    • Google Drive: “List my automotive content folders”
    • Gmail: “Show my draft emails to editors”
    • Excel: “Open my article performance tracking spreadsheet”
    • Puppeteer: “Test scraping a car price from cars.com

Step 2: Video Review Analysis

Extract Review Insights:

"Extract and analyze reviews of the new Tesla Model 3:
1. Find reviews from Doug DeMuro, Throttle House, and Carwow
2. Extract key positive and negative points
3. Note performance figures mentioned
4. Identify unique features highlighted
5. Compare reviewer conclusions"

Identify Unique Angles:

"Based on the video reviews, identify gaps in coverage:
- What questions weren't answered?
- Which features need more exploration?
- What comparisons are missing?
- Which user scenarios weren't tested?
- What long-term concerns exist?"

Owner Experience Mining:

"Search for Tesla Model 3 owner experience videos:
1. Extract common praise points
2. Identify frequent complaints
3. Note real-world range figures
4. Find modification trends
5. Discover ownership costs mentioned"

Step 3: Competitive Research

Technology Deep Dive:

"Research Tesla Model 3's latest technology:
- Autopilot/FSD current capabilities
- Battery technology and chemistry
- Over-the-air update features
- Charging infrastructure advantages
- Manufacturing innovations"

Competitor Analysis:

"Research direct Model 3 competitors:
1. BMW i4 specifications and pricing
2. Genesis Electrified G70 features
3. Polestar 2 technology comparison
4. Mercedes EQE entry model
5. Lucid Air Pure positioning"

Market Positioning:

"Analyze Model 3's market position:
- Price changes over time
- Sales volume trends
- Market share in segment
- Customer demographic shifts
- Brand perception evolution"

Step 4: Visual Content Creation

Custom Renderings:

"Generate Tesla Model 3 visualizations:
1. Pearl White Multi-Coat - 3/4 front angle
2. Solid Black - side profile with aero wheels
3. Deep Blue Metallic - rear angle showing light bar
4. Custom two-tone concept design
5. Interior visualization in white theme"

Comparison Graphics:

"Create visual comparisons:
- Size comparison with BMW 3 Series
- Interior space diagrams
- Technology feature matrix
- Charging speed comparison chart
- Total cost of ownership infographic"

Technical Illustrations:

"Generate technical diagrams:
1. Battery pack layout illustration
2. Motor placement cutaway
3. Autopilot sensor coverage diagram
4. Structural battery visualization
5. Heat pump system flow chart"

Step 5: Data Collection and Analysis

Price Scraping:

"Use Puppeteer to collect current pricing:
1. Tesla.com configurator prices
2. Local dealer inventory (used models)
3. Competitor pricing from their sites
4. Lease deals and financing offers
5. Insurance quote comparisons"

Specification Gathering:

"Create comprehensive spec comparison:
- 0-60 mph times (all variants)
- Range estimates (EPA/WLTP)
- Charging speeds (peak and curve)
- Dimensions and weight
- Standard and optional features"

Market Data Analysis:

"Build market analysis in Excel:
1. Price trends over 3 years
2. Depreciation curves
3. Inventory levels by region
4. Wait times for delivery
5. Option take rates"

Step 6: Content Production

Article Structure:

"Create article outline in Google Drive:
1. Compelling headline options
2. Introduction hook
3. Design and styling section
4. Performance analysis
5. Technology deep dive
6. Practicality assessment
7. Value proposition
8. Verdict and recommendations"

Performance Metrics:

"Track content performance in Excel:
- Previous Tesla article views
- Engagement rates by topic
- Best performing headlines
- Optimal article length
- Peak publishing times"

Step 7: Editor Communication

Story Pitch:

"Draft pitch email for my editor:
Subject: Exclusive - Tesla Model 3 Highland: The Untold Efficiency Story

Include:
- Unique angle discovered
- Key findings summary
- Visual assets available
- Proposed word count
- Delivery timeline
- Why readers will care"

Follow-up Strategy:

"Create follow-up email templates:
1. One week after pitch
2. Additional angle suggestion
3. Exclusive data offering
4. Seasonal tie-in proposal
5. Package deal pitch"

Advanced Content Strategies

Long-Form Investigation:

"Plan investigative piece on Tesla:
1. Research quality control issues
2. Find pattern in owner forums
3. Collect service center experiences
4. Analyze recall data
5. Interview industry experts
6. Create data visualizations"

Comparison Series:

"Develop multi-part comparison:
Part 1: Performance and Handling
Part 2: Technology and Features
Part 3: Practicality and Space
Part 4: Cost of Ownership
Part 5: Future Proofing"

Trend Analysis:

"Create trend piece on EV adoption:
1. Scrape sales data monthly
2. Track charging infrastructure growth
3. Monitor policy changes
4. Analyze consumer sentiment
5. Project future developments"

Content Calendar Management

Monthly Planning:

"Plan next month's automotive content:
Week 1: New model launch coverage
Week 2: Technology deep dive
Week 3: Comparison test
Week 4: Industry analysis piece"

Seasonal Content:

"Prepare seasonal articles:
- Winter: EV cold weather performance
- Spring: Convertible buyer's guide
- Summer: Road trip vehicle rankings
- Fall: New model year changes"

Research Organization

Asset Management:

"Organize research in Google Drive:
/Automotive Content/
  /Tesla Model 3/
    /Video Transcripts/
    /Images and Renders/
    /Pricing Data/
    /Technical Specs/
    /Draft Articles/
    /Published Work/"

Source Database:

"Maintain source contacts in Excel:
- PR representatives
- Industry analysts
- Technical experts
- Owner groups
- Dealer contacts"

Best Practices

  1. Daily Workflow:
    • Morning: Check industry news
    • Review YouTube channels
    • Monitor pricing changes
    • Update content calendar
    • Respond to editor emails
  2. Weekly Tasks:
    • Analyze content performance
    • Plan upcoming articles
    • Update comparison data
    • Generate new visuals
    • Pitch fresh stories
  3. Research Standards:
    • Verify specs from multiple sources
    • Test claims when possible
    • Include diverse perspectives
    • Update data regularly
    • Maintain objectivity
  4. Content Quality:
    • Fact-check thoroughly
    • Use original visuals
    • Provide unique insights
    • Balance technical and accessible
    • Include practical advice

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Data Discrepancies:

  • Cross-reference manufacturer sites
  • Contact PR for clarification
  • Note variations in articles
  • Use most conservative figures
  • Explain measurement differences

Visual Generation:

  • Provide detailed prompts
  • Use reference images
  • Iterate on designs
  • Maintain brand accuracy
  • Ensure publication rights

Scraping Challenges:

  • Respect robots.txt
  • Use appropriate delays
  • Handle dynamic content
  • Verify data accuracy
  • Have backup sources

Example Projects

New Model Launch:

"Cover the new Porsche Macan EV:
1. Extract insights from embargo reviews
2. Research platform technology
3. Generate exclusive color renders
4. Scrape configurator pricing
5. Compare to competitors
6. Draft compelling launch article"

Technology Explainer:

"Explain solid-state batteries:
1. Research latest developments
2. Find expert video explanations
3. Create visual diagrams
4. Compare to current tech
5. Project implementation timeline
6. Make it accessible to readers"

Buying Guide:

"Create ultimate EV buying guide:
1. Analyze all current models
2. Extract owner experiences
3. Generate comparison charts
4. Scrape real-world pricing
5. Create decision flowchart
6. Provide personalized recommendations"