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!

When hybrid and electric vehicles were made possible by automobile manufacturers, this huge step in technology opened many doors for car companies. The question now is, will electric vehicles become a hit among consumers? Will sales be as successful as competing gasoline-engine models? Or will they sit in the lots of dealerships like the Bloomington, IL car dealers?

Shoppers searching for used cars in Bloomington, IL may not be as interested in new electric vehicles as other consumers are. This is the issue that car companies face. In an economy like this, many people are not willing to spend thousands of dollars on a vehicle that they are unfamiliar with – let alone one with completely different technology and construction than what they are used to. That’s where Deloitte Consulting comes in. The organization released results of a consumer survey on electric and hybrid vehicles, which revealed some details on such concerns. Consumers interested in purchasing an electric vehicle should visit Bloomington, IL car dealers for more information.

According to the survey results, Deloitte Consulting expects sales of electric and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles to approach 0.5% of the U.S. market share by 2015, and reach as high as 2.0-5.6% by the year 2020 – about 285,000-840,000 vehicles. However, the estimated number of electric vehicles to be sold (not including hybrid plug-ins) varies, depending on which consultant, critic, analyst, etc. Personally, I would love to one day own an electric vehicle – I just simply do not have the funds to purchase any new vehicle at this time. While I understand consumers’ hesitance to purchase an electric car, the rising gas prices may help shoppers come to a decision sooner rather than later. Owners of used cars in Bloomington, IL should visit their local dealer to learn the benefits of owning an electric vehicle.

The most challenging question among such analyzers is how rapidly – or gradually – this new breakthrough will catch on. Deloitte Consultant Rebecca Ranish feels that this progress requires the automotive industry to move quickly to electrification, including more investment on infrastructure (i.e. public charging stations at offices and parking lots). “The telephone, the radio, the refrigerator were all reliant on infrastructure to support adoption and in some cases may have been slowed by infrastructure. Electric vehicles will have a similar series of challenges.” Nevertheless, car companies are undoubtedly aware of this obstacle. Consumers will just have to wait to see if accommodations will be made to ensure that the purchase of an electric vehicle is worth the trouble.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) will enact new fuel economy regulations for 2011 vehicles which will ultimately result in a win-win-win situation for the environment, economy, and drivers. The Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) introduced an 18 MPG regulation for passenger vehicles only when enacted by congress in 1975. While slight amendments have been made to CAFE standards over the years, the newest reform will reflect the most drastic change in their 30-year history with a 35% increase in fuel economy for cars and trucks combined. This amendment will enforce Bloomington IL new car dealers to obtain 37.8 mpg for passenger vehicles and 28.8 mpg for trucks by the year 2016.

The 2016 CAFE standards will perhaps have the biggest impact on the environment, which will benefit from the reduced greenhouse gases and carbon dioxide. The Union of Concerned Scientists says that approximately 5 pounds of global warning pollution are produced per gallon of gas. Basic math will confirm, the higher the fuel economy of a vehicle, the less pollution produced.

The next win that the 2016 CAFE standards will award goes to the economy. Increased fuel economy standards will save the U.S. 1.1 million barrels of oil a day, much of which is foreign oil. The decreased foreign oil will help cut the $1 billion dollars spent per day to import petroleum products and moderate the amount of reliance placed on foreign nations.

The CAFE regulations will also be advantageous for drivers. While the cost of a vehicle that can reach the set forth fuel economy standards will more than likely cost extra, such an increase will be compensated with the reduced fuel costs. The increased cost that CAFE standards add to vehicles is estimated to be around the $1,000 – $2,000 range and will actually be offset with the reduced fuel costs that are estimated to reach $4,000 in a vehicle’s lifetime.

While the new CAFE guidelines seem extreme, Bloomington IL car dealers acknowledge that a greener future is only a possibility with such regulations enforced. And the additional benefits that come with such a reform don’t hurt either.   

According to the American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language found online, a “kludge” is a “clumsy or inelegant solution to a problem.”  In terms of the auto industry, there are those who would say this describes the hybrid.  Perhaps a tad harsh, this accusation does say something about the future of the auto industry: that hybrids are a transitional technology and the future does most likely lie in EVs, as most countries work to lessen their dependence on petrochemicals and keep an eye on their carbon footprint.  For those of this mindset, 2010 is shaping up to be an interesting year as several EVs hit the U.S. market for the first time, meaning both the New Yorks and Chicagos as well as that local Bloomington car dealership.  The Nissan LEAF, the Chevy Volt, and the Mitsubishi i-MiEV will all be available. 

In fact, Bloomington, IL, car dealers have already reported substantial interest in the LEAF, as measured by its pre-sale numbers.  Perhaps as a response to this (since the LEAF is priced at over $30,000), Mitsubishi has recently announced a $6,700 reduction to the i-MiEV, which will now come to the United States with a price tag below $30,000 (keep in mind, neither of these prices reflect the final cost, given the federal tax credit for fuel-efficient vehicles that falls under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act).  This “one-upmanship” by Mitsubishi, or whatever you want to call it, seems to suggest competitive pricing and technology innovations ahead, all good things for everyone, including that Bloomington car dealership.

For those not familiar with the i-MiEV, as it seems the least known out of the three EVs, it is based on the gasoline-driven 660cc “i” mini-car.  It is a small, lightweight four-seater that can reach a top speed of over 80 mph and requires right around 7 hours to recharge on a 220v system (the LEAF requires 8 hours with a 220v system).  The i-MiEV can be driven either in Drive or Eco mode; in the latter the power output drops from 63 hp down to 43 hp, extending your cruising range.  The i-MiEV can go 95-100+ miles on a single charge in ideal conditions, and as for its footprint, even with the CO2 emissions power plants generate for the vehicle’s charging, the i-MiEV still emits only 30% the CO2 of a gas mini-car.

So whether the LEAF, the Volt, or the i-MiEV proves to be the best buy of the EV bunch, it would appear the New York, Chicago, and Bloomington, IL, car dealers are the winners in all of this as the next progressive, competitive step in the auto industry is taken.

The 2010 Mitsubishi i, which is not available in the United States at this point, was tested by the professionals at InsideLine earlier this year. The reaction? Well, it works in Japan.

Not to insult Japan or the manufacturers of Mitsubishi – it’s just that the Mitsubishi i is required to meet strict limits on size, engine displacement, and power, which entitle consumers to tax breaks. Basically they are designed to meet the needs of the urban commuters – travel at low speed in congested areas and be parked easily. If the vehicle ever comes to the United States, Mitsubishi might need to make several alterations to meet the needs of the American consumer. Those interested in the 2010 Mitsubishi i can obtain information at your Bloomington Mitsubishi dealer.

With a measurement of 133.5 inches, the Mitsubishi i is more than two feet shorter than the smallest Honda model in America. However, the interior is still spacious enough to fit four average-sized people with plenty of head room. Additionally, the Mitsubishi i’s rear seats fold to create a flat load floor, allowing enough room for packing considerably large cargo. For more details on this deceptive vehicle, consumers can visit their Bloomington, IL car dealers or any other dealership lot where Mitsubishi vehicles are sold.

Many who observe the vehicle in person may not be able to figure out where the engine is, which is actually obscurely mounted under the rear cargo area. As far as the power goes, regulations limit Kei cars to engines of no more than 660cc and 63 horsepower. Therefore, the Mitsubishi i engine is equipped with a 659cc 3B20 inline-3 engine, yielding 63 horsepower and 69 pound-feet of torque. The engine works with variable valve timing, a turbocharger and intercooling. The vehicle also has a four-speed automatic transmission and optional all-wheel drive. In addition to these features that may appear inferior to the American driver, the 2010 Mitsubishi i reaches 0-60 in a not-so-impressive 14.9 seconds. While this may work on the streets of Japan, the vehicle is not expected to be powerful enough for U.S. highways. Furthermore, the 2010 Mitsubishi i gets only 27.7 mpg – probably because the engine must work so hard to keep up with traffic. Mitsubishi owners can compare their current vehicle with the 2010 Mitsubishi i by visiting any Bloomington, IL car dealer, particularly O’Brien’s Bloomington Mitsubishi dealer.

Although the 2010 Mitsubishi i is not impressive by any means, we must keep in mind that it fulfills its purpose: commuting short distances at low speed. This vehicle definitely meets the requirements for drivers of Japan, but if a model were to ever be introduced to the United States, consumers can expect alterations to meet the needs of American drivers.

Mitsubishi Motors has announced that drivers can get a sneak peak at their latest compact crossover, the ASX, at the 80^th Annual Geneva Auto Show this March. The ASX will be the European spec version of the Japanese market RVR and it will see a sequential release throughout Europe this spring. Normal Mitsubishi dealers should see the car arrive here in the States in the fall, but it’s not known what name the vehicle will be released under.

In fact, not much is known about the ASX at all right now. What we do know is that it’s based on the Concept-cX which we saw back in 2007 at the Frankfurt Auto Show. The Concept-cX was a vibrant demonstration that driving pleasure and corporate responsibility are not mutually exclusive and was a showcase for the all-new Euro-5 Clean Diesel family of engines. The ASX will follow suit by running on a Euro-5 compliant 1.8 liter turbocharged, direct-injection engine. While we know engine will be coupled with a 6-speed manual transmission, we don’t know any power specifics or if it will be all-wheel drive like the Concept-cX upon which it’s based.

So how does the ASX compare to the Mitsubishis you’d find at your Bloomington IL car dealers right now? For starters, it will be slated below the Outlander when it comes to size. The ASX will be a 5-seat crossover coming in at 4.3 meters long. The smaller size and likely lighter weight, combined with fuel saving “Automatic Stop & Go” technology, should yield impressive results at pumps everywhere. The ASX will be slot below the Outlander when it comes to pricing as well, but there are no details about just what its price will be. The base version of the 2010 Outlander starts at under $21,000 so look for the ASX to be even lower than that! I’m already looking forward to fall when this compact crossover should arrive at the Normal Mitsubishi dealers!

For more information on this and other great Mitsubishi news, stop in and talk to O’Brien Mitsubishi. When it comes to Bloomington IL car dealers, they outrank the competition on all levels. If you’re in the market for a new or used car, they are the place to go. O’Brien Mitsubishi has great cars at low prices and the sales staff is dedicated to helping you find exactly what you need.

The all new 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer GTS has been receiving much praise for its rock solid structure, sleek design, and the extra enhancements available. There has been much talk surrounding this vehicle and it’s no wonder – the car has been reported to have a superior engine and strong brake power, along with an exceptionally strong chassis, giving it a solid foundation. The smooth and easy to handle power steering along with the manual clutch and shifter add to the list of attributes this car brings to the market…

O’Brien Mitsubishi, one of the top Bloomington, IL car dealers and a trusted Bloomington Mitsubishi dealer, is a great source to find the 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer. You can stop in to take one for a test drive, and also see the design enhancements made to the 2010 model. The design updates are few, but they are worth a trip to the Bloomington car dealership, O’Brien Mitsubishi, just to check out. Exterior and interior design updates include new smoked rear tail lights, more pronounced side sills, a new gauge cluster, chrome accents and a color multi-information display.

This vehicle also comes with options – you can choose to add on extra options such as the sun and sound package which includes a power glass sunroof, six disc CD changer, 710-watt premium sound system, satellite radio, fast key entry system. There is also the option to add the touring package which includes leather seats, high intensity discharge lights, rain sensing wipers, heated front seats, and a sound resistant windshield. They also offer the option to choose a premium paint job, for a small price. The starting price for the 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer GTS is only $19,710 and each package is under $2,000 each.

O’Brien Mitsubishi, your trusted Bloomington Mitsubishi dealer, is your number one source for more information on these all new 2010 Mitsubishi Lancers. Stop by this Bloomington car dealership for a test drive, or to chat with one of the representatives there for more information on the cars. They’re extremely helpful and O’Brien Mitsubishi is surely one of the best quality Bloomington, IL car dealers you’ll find. With so many options and such a great price, you will be sure to find exactly what you need at O’Brien Mitsubishi of Normal.

Bloomington, IL car dealers say that the 2010 Mitsubishi Endeavor, has been receiving rave reviews on how well this car can handle itself on all kinds of terrain and in all kinds of weather.  Edmunds.com is just one of the many speaking out about this car they said, “…city driving exposed no major deficiencies, and a brief foray down a rocky fire road revealed a sport-ute fully capable of handing itself when the pavement ended. Kelly Blue book.com said, “It’s sleek shape seems to be immune to strong winds and buffeting.” So this car would be the perfect choice if you want to go camping or off-roading.

Not only is this car perfect if you wanna go camping or off-roading it handles itself pretty well when it comes to everyday driving. Kelly Blue Book also said, “Around town, the Endeavor’s modest size translates into easy parking and maneuverability, The Endeavor offers only one engine choice — a powerful V6 that pulls strongly and achieves acceptable fuel economy.” Also, Road and Track.com said, “On-road ride and handling is pleasant, and the Endeavor feels agile for it’s size.”

For those who like to travel or just have a lot of cargo or passengers they like to cart around the Bloomington car dealership said the Endeavor is the perfect choice due to its spacious seats. Edmunds.com says, “Second-row accommodations are particularly generous with class-leading legroom and more than enough head- and shoulder room to keep three passengers happy.” Also, there are enough 12-volt outlets in the car to power a cell phone, a computer, an Xbox, and a margarita blender.

Bloomington, IL car dealers are also saying that reviews are saying that the  endeavor is completely different for other cars that are on the market. The 2010 Mitsubishi Endeavor is said to mix the attributes of a “car and truck better than most cars.” Edmunds. com says, “With an in-your-face front end and plenty of sharply creased sheet metal, the Endeavor was designed to stand out among the current crop of otherwise featureless SUVs. It’s more than just a distinctive face, however, as it offers the all-wheel-drive capabilities and interior comforts customers have come to expect in this competitive segment.”

So if you like to go camping or off-roading on the weekends or have to drive around with a lot of cargo or passengers, Bloomington car dealership O’Brien Mitsubishi of Normal says the 2010 Mitsubishi Endeavor is the car for you!

Mitsubishi is hopeful that sometime in the very near future their electric cars will be a staple on the roads of America. The automaker hopes to have electric vehicles available for purchase to the general public by winter or spring of next year. While these vehicles are not currently available at your local Bloomington car dealership, Mitsubishi believes the interest is there and that the vehicles will be widely popular when they become available in the future.

Mitsubishi has developed cars such as the i-MiEV to debut their hybrid technology and these vehicles are currently being used by government agencies around the country. Trials like these, as well as survey results that show nine percent of Japanese customers as well as eight percent of Americans are interested in purchasing electric vehicles give Mitsubishi confidence that automobiles like i-MiEV are the wave of the future. Dealerships as local as Bloomington Mitsubishi dealer O’Brien Mitsubishi of Normal report customers interested in hybrid technology.

The i-MiEV is currently on roads all over the country in prototype form, with many of these vehicles occurring in Japan where the first customer available EV Mitsubishis are expected to debut. Japanese drivers who have had the opportunity to drive the Mitsubishi i-MiEV report the car is fun to drive and simple to charge.

The i-MiEV comes with a 200 volt plug which is inserted into a socket and then charged for whatever duration of time the driver chooses. This Mitsubishi charges to 80 percent of its batter capacity in approximately 30 minutes. There are currently not many charging stations and the cost at present is free, however when EV’s become available locally at Bloomington, IL car dealers these details will certainly change.

Electric vehicles like the Mitsubishi i-MiEV are drumming up considerable interest not only because they are so environmentally friendly, they are also cost efficient and an incredibly innovative new technology. Drivers who have had the opportunity to use the i-MiEV report the car handles well and accelerates smoothly. It also is virtually silent and includes features such as a gauge reading “remaining mileage” to let drivers know how much further they can drive before power runs out. To find out more about Mitsubishi electric vehicles visit your local Bloomington IL car dealers and Bloomington Mitsubishi dealer.

There’s a possibility a new vehicle may appear on the lot at your Bloomington Mitsubishi dealer?  Mitsubishi Motors is looking into manufacturing and selling the Triton, a pickup truck,  here in the United States.  This is coming after slipping sales for the company.  In 2009, sales fell nearly45%.  In an economy where most businesses are struggling to stay afloat, this is not good news.  However, Mitsubishi Motors is not giving up!  Kudos for that, as Mitsubishi cars are great!

The car company has one manufacturing plant in the United States, in Normal, IL.  They too have felt the effects of lowered sales.  Last year, the plant made approximately 18,000 vehicles and their capacity is stated to be 135,000.  But, years ago when the plant was a joint project with Chrysler, around 240,000 autos came out of the center.  If the Triton could be made there and sales for it would be profitable, this would be a great thing for the Normal car dealer.

So, you must be thinking, what are some features of the Triton?  This truck is a big hit in Australia, for example.  So much so, that in summer 2009, inventory was running low in the country from high sales the month of June.  The Triton is both heavy duty and rugged, while at the same time a reliable family vehicle.  What a great addition it would be at Bloomington IL car dealers.

The 2010 Triton’s come with quite a few safety features.  For example, driver and passenger front side airbags come standard, as do child restraint points.  Electronic brakeforce distribution is also on this truck.  This system helps evenly apply brake pressure, based on varying surfaces, vehicle load, etc.  Your Bloomington Mitsubishi dealer is hoping to carry this durable, yet safe, truck!

What type of engine and driving system is found in this truck?  Several four wheel drive options are available (overseas, only, right now!).  There is a new turbo diesel high performance engine in the 2010 models.  One 4WD option has a 2.5L engine that gives 131 kw of power.  The fuel economy on the possible Normal car dealer truck has been improved approximately 9%.

It would be great if production could come to the Normal plant.  This may help generate new or keep current jobs and maybe improve the company’s overall sales?  In the meantime, visit your Bloomington IL car dealers for great deals!