Green Car Journal, a trusted source for bringing environmentally conscious drivers the most up to date information, has recently announced their Top 5 finalists for the 2012 Green Car of the Year Award.  What does this mean for Mitsubishi?

The 2012 Mitsubishi ‘i’ is one of the five autos in the running, along with these other cars:  2012 Ford Focus Electric, 2012 Honda Civic CNG, 2012 Volkswagen Passat TDI, and the 2012 Toyota Prius V.  What an exciting time for all of the makers of these autos to share in.  Those of us working at certain Bloomington, IL car dealers, namely O’Brien Mitsubishi of Normal, are pulling for the ‘i’ to come out on top!

How are the finalists chosen?

First off, you probably noticed that all are 2012 models.  One criteria is that the green cars chosen will be available by January 1st, 2012.  They are not autos we are currently seeing on the roadways right now, but will very soon.  They also consider these variables when making choices for the finalists, and ultimately the top winner:

• Vehicles that operate via many different methods: High efficiency gas, diesel, other gas-based fuel sources, and ones that are solely electric based, like the ‘i’.
• Marketability in terms of being new, offering advanced technology, and much more.

Who is making the choice?

 One of the cool things about the individuals making the green car of the year choice is that many of them have a lot of knowledge of the environment and what truly makes a car “green”.  For instance, the panel has the president of the Natural Resources Defense Council and the leader of Global Green USA, among several others.  It makes the decision much more credible when you have individuals who are very educated in the field.  One key member may not be the leader of a large environmental organization, but he sure knows his cars and will be able to make the panel fun, and that entertainer is Jay Leno! 

Those of us here who proudly sell the Springfield Mitsubishi Eclipse, as well as other fine new and preowned autos, will be rooting for the all-new ‘i’ to come out as top winner!

Back in February we brought some exciting information about a partnership between Mitsubishi motors and the state of Illinois.  This deal would allow for a large quantity of all-new ‘i’ models to be tested and driven around the streets of Bloomington-Normal. 

It might seem like its been awhile since you’ve heard anymore on this, but the plan is to have this go into action.  Mitsubishi has launched an advertising campaign showing the arrival of the ‘i’, an all new electric car that’s creating a lot of buzz in the automotive world, right here in Normal.  Yes, that’s right!  And, to allow for them to be driven, 30 high-speed electric chargers are being installed at various locations in the community. 

Mitsubishi’s goal is to show drivers all over that electric cars are popular and important in all parts of the country, not just the more populated, urban areas that are often associated with all electric models.  Showcasing the ‘i’ in a town like Normal shows consumers that electric cars are bound to catch in popularity in all types of towns and cities. 

Adding to all of this is the fact that Normal is also home to a Mitsubishi plant that is a major source of employment and income to the town.  The ad spot does not mention this, but it’s an important thing to keep in mind.  As you might already be aware, Mitsubishi is looking to shift its focus now and in the next few years to vehicles that are less reliant on gas and more mindful of the environment.  While they already manufacture some very nice models, such as the Normal IL Mitsubishi Galant, some of their models will be changing or possibly discontinued to make room for cars like the ‘i’ and much more!

Mitsubishi is hoping that the town of Normal is so wowed by all the features in the ‘i’ that they rush to their preferred dealer, O’Brien Mitsubishi of Normal, home of new and used Mitsubishi, Springfield IL residents in addition to local consumers, can easily visit today!

You’ve been putting it off for as long as you can, but that time has come for you to shop for a new auto.  Maybe it’s been awhile and you aren’t sure where to start.  That’s okay, you are not alone.  There are many things to consider when making the choice to buy or lease a new auto.  We’d like to give you some things to think about to hopefully make your next purchase as stress free and enjoyable as possible.

1. Take advantage of your computer or other handheld device:  The internet’s presence in today’s society is simply unavoidable in many cases.  What is great in the case of auto buying is that Internet research enables you to head into a dealership ready and knowledgeable about what you want and don’t want in a vehicle.  Another great suggestion is to establish an online rapport with a sales staff.  Many sites enable you to do live chat, etc and then when you head to our store, you’ll already have someone you feel at ease working with.
2. What do you need?:  Take some time to figure out what kind of auto you really need.  Make a list of the attributes and features that you find desirable, along with those that are essential for everyday travels.  Figure out those that you can live without, especially if you are staying within stricter financial parameters. 
3. Test driving matters:  Many of us may not think about this, but your test drive behind the wheel of a Mitsubishi model sold at your favorite Bloomington car dealership should mimic your normal driving conditions as much as possible.  If you typically do most of your driving on open country roads, take the auto there….If most of your travels will be in more stop and go traffic, see how it operates in that setting.
4. For more tips and suggestions on how to find the perfect auto, whether you prefer new or used cars for sale, Normal IL residents can trust O’Brien Mitsubishi of Normal sales staff to help with the total auto buying experience.  Stop by our store for more details!

Mitsubishi has plenty to be happy about for 2011.  Overall, sales of vehicle models made by the automaker are very high.  Let’s find out exactly what this means for consumers and for those who sell these models.

It was reported early this month that Mitsubishi’s market shares are showing sales figures up 20% versus the numbers reported last year at this time.  This means that the automaker has seen 13 months of growth, consecutively.  The company also has analysts that look at the overall growth of the company.  This is an area that is also seeing a big increase.  From the period of Jan 1, 2011 through the end of September, a little over 65K models have been sold, resulting in a 60% increase.  These numbers are beating some other popular auto manufacturers.  Mitsubishi thanks many of it’s great models for this success.

Mitsubishi Lancer

One model that has gotten some press and big endorsements from popular auto publications is the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution XI.  For 2012, it is set to get some big updates, such as better fuel economy thanks to advanced engine design.  It is also reported to be getting a very sleek design, similar to some of the luxury sports car models you might see on the market today.  It is due to arrive at U.S. dealerships, possibly your Normal Mitsubishi dealer, sometime in 2012. 

Outlander Sport continues to be a big hit

The Outlander Sport, which we have a large inventory of now, continues to be a big player in Mitsubishi’s sales and growth figures.  There are many fantastic reasons to check out this fine model.  A big bonus is the roomy feel that you get, both for passengers and cargo, but with a smaller size as compared to bulkier large SUV’s.  Like the Springfield, IL Mitsubishi Lancer, it is also a more fuel efficient auto to own.  It starts out at a very affordable price, with some base models starting under $20K.  Of course, the more features you opt for will change this, but you are able to customize your Outlander in many different ways!

Those of us here at O’Brien Mitsubishi of Normal look forward to finishing the year strong!

In light of Mitsubishi’s new plan to move ahead with more electric vehicles, both with the ‘i’ that’s right around the corner, and for future models they’ll be releasing in the upcoming months and years, the automaker is also moving ahead with plans to make charging stations for these types of cars accessible for the masses.

Not only will buyers of EV’s need to have charging stations installed at their place of residence, but they’ll also need access to them when out and about.  Even with the best intentions to have their EV’s fully charged, you know there will be situations where people will need to run out, forgetting they have a low charge, and then once they are at their desired stop, will realize that a charge is needed, at least enough of one to get them home or to get by to their next few planned stops.

Mitsubishi, who proudly manufactures the Mitsubishi Galant Springfield drivers can find today at our store, has announced a partnership with WiTricity and IHI Corporation to research and develop charging stations that could easily be taken down and set up to provide all different type of industries the chance to offer EV drivers who use their services the ability to charge.  This could apply to shopping centers, workplaces, use by the government, and much more.

How would one work?

First off, it would be a wireless system, where energy capturing capabilities would be held underground.  The energy could then be transferred to the device that is charging, such as the all new ‘i’.  WiTricity has already been working on some similar systems that are proving to operate very well.  The science behind it might be very intricate, but a wireless EV charging station would make use of magnetic energy, which WiTricity has already patented a version of, as well as being safe, environmental and user friendly.

Those of us here at your Bloomington Normal Mitsubishi dealer will be learning more about this joint venture, which is just in the forming stages to come up with a formal plan with how this might apply to settings where Mitsubishi models are commonly sold and driven.

We are only a couple of months away from debuting the all new “i” that Mitsubishi is highly anticipating.  It is set to roll out to dealerships sometime in November.  Over the course of this year, we’ve been bringing you some information on why going the electric vehicle route might be a great option.

With the cost of gas remaining high in many areas, a lot of people you know might agree that they are cutting back when it comes to driving, or being more mindful of driving practices that help conserve gas use, as well as overall wear and tear on your car, which can also cut into an automotive budget.  Switching to a vehicle like the EV “i” might be a wise investment over the course of several years if you consider many different factors.

Price

One big factor in moving to an electric vehicle, especially if you are new to this type of auto, is the cost.  Can I afford it?  Will the cost justify itself in the long run?  These are just a few of the many questions we know you probably have.  The staff at your Normal Mitsubishi dealer are here to help with any questions or concerns you might have. 

We’d like you to know that the Mitsubishi ‘i’ is the most affordable “mass-market electric car” that you’ll be able to test drive and purchase very soon.  The MSRP for an entry level ‘i’ will run you around $21,625 after the federal tax credit comes into play.  If you opt for the premium SE trim, you see a cost of around $23,625, again, after the tax credit is figured in.  The current figure for the federal tax credit on EV vehicles is at $7500.  To find out more about this new car price, Bloomington IL area drivers can contact O’Brien Mitsubishi of Normal. 

The ‘i’ is a car with a lot of potential that we are excited to offer.  Stay tuned for even more details that are sure to come up closer to its release later this Fall.

The Mitsubishi Eclipse, which you can currently find at our store, has been a solid choice amongst car buyers since it’s release back in 1989.  For a driver who is looking for a reliable sporty car at a nice price, the Eclipse is one that should definitely be considered. 

We’ve brought you several posts about all that the 2012 Eclipse has to offer, as well as other information you as a consumer might be interested in.  Adding to the buzz around a great car is the news that the last built Eclipse is going to help contribute to those in need.  In case you are not aware, the Eclipse is set to end a 22 year run.  It has been a very successful car for Mitsubishi, but now they are changing things around a bit to focus on some other models, including some new ones with electric powertrains.

Auction Information

One of the last models of the Mitsubishi Eclipse, Springfield residents can find today in several trims, is going to be auctioned off on Sept 17th to help fund the Japanese Red Cross Earthquake relief fund.  Millions of people are still in need of many necessities after the devastating earthquakes hit the country earlier this year.  The proceeds from the auction will likely go to someone very deserving of aid.

Mecum Auctions, a company auction attendees might be familiar with, is running the event on September 17th at a resort in St. Charles, IL. It will be auctioned off at approximately 1:55 p.m. and has many fabulous features including the following:

• Kalpana Black exterior paint color
• Only coupe to be built in a SE trim
• 18-inch wheels
• Leather interior
• Sunroof
• High quality stereo system
• Bluetooth
• Rearview Camera- a very handy safety feature
• HID headlights  

Definitely sounds like a car that a lucky winner would love to go home with!  It is being estimated that the Eclipse might go for over or around $30K? 

For more information on the Eclipse, contact your Normal Mitsubishi dealer today, O’Brien Mitsubishi of Normal .

If you’ve ever had your auto broken into then you know first hand how stressful it can be.  Whether you are driving locally, out of a familiar driving area, alone, or with other passengers, we’d like to send some friendly tips your way to hopefully keep you theft and break-in free.

1. Be aware of your surroundings.  Park your auto in a well-lit area where you see other vehicles parked.  This is especially important if you’ll be getting into your car late at night.  A person looking to steal an auto or take items inside of it will be deterred if more vehicles are nearby.
2. Never leave items in plain sight.  If you’ve made a stop at Target and Kohls’ and are now going to be inside another place for awhile, take those bags and put them in the trunk to keep out of visibility.  If a person capable of theft sees those and gets inside the car, he or she may have a better chance of taking the vehicle itself since they are already inside. 
3. Adding to tip #2, do not leave items such as check books, credit/debit cards, or other valuables inside your car.  We have probably all been guilty of this for convenience sake, but doing so leaves you a more open target for theft.
4. Be mindful of where you keep a spare key.  A driver of a Springfield Mitsubishi Galant, for example, might leave a spare key under his or her car.  Auto thieves know where to look and might easily find it.  Sure, no one enjoys being locked out of their vehicle, but it beats having your auto stolen altogether! 
5. Always lock your doors, even if you are just running into a stop for a few minutes.  Theft and break-ins can happen that fast, especially if the perpetrator is skilled and knows what he or she is looking for!
6. Never leave the car on with the keys in the ignition.
7. Consider purchasing an anti-theft alarm on your Bloomington, IL new car model if it does not come standard with one already.

Please let us know if you have any questions about these or other car safety tips!

The 2012 Eclipse is currently for sale at your Bloomington Normal car dealer for Mitsubishi models and more, O’Brien Mitsubishi of Normal.  The most up to date Eclipse line-up is available in several different trims:

• GS
• GS-Sport
• SE
• GT

Here at the dealership we currently carry the GS-Sport and SE.  If you are curious about the availability of other trims listed here, contact the staff for more details.

Eclipse GS Sport

 The GS Sport comes standard with several different features that drivers all over McLean County and surrounding areas should find enjoyable while traveling.  For starters, you’ll get a powerful, but fuel efficient, four cylinder 2.4 liter engine that is paired up with an automatic transmission.  In addition, it comes with convenient Bluetooth capability as well as MP3 playability, 3 months of satellite radio, a subwoofer, and six CD capability.  If you are into in-car entertainment to enjoy all your favorite music, this might be the right coupe for you.

Furthermore, with the Springfield Mitsubishi Eclipse for 2012, the GS Sport trim owner will find a long list other convenience feature such as these:

• Cruise Control
• Power Steering
• Controls for the audio and cruise control mounted on the steering wheel
• Tilted steering wheel

If you’d enjoy driving the SE trim, it also adds a lot of nice features, many of the similar ones that you’d find on the GS Sport.  Here a few more that you would most likely enjoy having:

1. Heated Mirrors
2. Comfortable front seats across the line-up
3. Roomier cargo areas than you might expect for a coupe
4. Heated front seat, which will be a lifesaving with the upcoming cooler weather
5. Package options such as Sport Aero, Cargo Protection, and Appearance Packages

Check out the 2012 Eclipse now to find out why it’s been such a big hit the last 15 years!

The ‘i’ is a very highly anticipated model, especially as gas prices have risen to amounts that have made a lot of drivers think more carefully about when and how they drive.  Adding to this are the stricter government standards for mpg readings and emissions that are set to come into play in the next 15 years or so.  All of these are working together to fuel the desire for autos like the ‘i’.

By April of 2012, which will be about 5 months after the ‘i”s initial release in the U.S., such as at stores like your Springfield, IL Mitsubishi dealership, the automaker is expecting about 2,000 i’s to be sold across all of North America.  Achieving this goal would definitely be a solid start in helping jump start Mitsubishi’s commitment to offering more electric based powertrain vehicles. 

Building on this, the automaker has some even more long term sales goals regarding the ‘i’ and other upcoming electric/hybrid models they are planning to roll out, such as a plug-in model of the very popular Outlander.  By 2016, they would like to be selling about 20,000 of the all electric ‘i’ across North America.  By this same year, the ‘i’ will also be joined by other electric or plug in models. 

It will be very interesting to see what happens when the ‘i’ rolls out this fall.  We are hoping you’ll be excited to stop into our store and check it out.  It is said to be one of the best highway capable electric cars that will be for sale, with great long range capabilities, as well as being perfect for local travels in larger towns and cities.

In the meantime, stop by your preferred Springfield, IL used car dealer for any questions about the ‘i’ or any of the other models we currently have in stock.