Burlington Mitsubishi Auto Blog

Do it Yourself Hand Warmers

2012-02-25T12:10:00.000-08:00

Now that we finally have some snow, we may have some use for hand warmers up here in VT. Here's a quick way to make hand warmers at home with just one quick trip to the hardware store.

All you need:

1 small Ziploc bag
1 large Ziploc bag
A little water
Calcium chloride ice-melt pellets

Fill the smaller bag about halfway with water, then fill the larger back about a quarter of the way with the ice-melt pellets. Put the smaller bag in the larger bag, seal tightly while pressing down to remove air, then squeeze the smaller bag until in breaks open and the water mixes with the ice-melt pellets. This should create a warm bag that will last between 20 minutes to an hour depending on how many pellets you use. Enjoy!

For the full article, click here.

Image 1 via theangelforever.com*
Image 2 via papergoods.com*
Image 3 via dartsp.com*
*All edited in house.

Self-Driving Cars May Be in the Nearer-Than-Expected Future

2012-02-22T08:54:00.000-08:00

Companies such as BMW and Google are heading the way towards fully-automatic vehicles. And I don't mean automatic transmissions, but vehicles that 100 percent drive themselves.

BMW Engineer Werner Huber thinks that in about 10-15 years there could be a whole other world of driving. BMW has a technology called CDC (ConnectedDrive Connect) that already maneuvers itself seamlessly through traffic, holding its ground while self-driving on Germany's notorious Autobahn. The plan is for these vehicles to have the fully-autonomous option as well as an option for the driver to drive themselves if they so please - so don't worry about handing your control completely to your vehicle just yet.

The hurdle between creating these cars and actually getting them into production is less so the technology involved and mostly the cost to do it. Automakers are already beginning to master the technology, but it takes a huge budget, which is why it's exclusively available in luxury cars thus far. There's a hindrance from legal issues too; what would happen if the computer of the car crashed? Many injuries could be sustained to the driver, passenger, pedestrians or any other fellow drivers.

Well, Mitsubishi won't have any of these in stock for a while, but we'll let you know in 10-15 when they are available. In the meantime, head to our website to check out our stock of new and used driver-driving vehicles.

Click here to view the full article on Digital Trends.

Image 1 via Digital Trends.
Image 2 via pcworld.com

Pentagon's Project Avatar

2012-02-20T10:27:00.000-08:00

DARPA (Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency) has just invested $7 million on a project called Avatar. If you're thinking they can't possibly have humans with huge blue surrogates on another planet - you're mostly right. However, they are working on robot surrogates that will be controlled by the mind of a soldier, much like Avatars are in the Blockbuster film.

The robots will be linked to one specific human partner, who will potentially be able to control their technical counterpart by mind power alone. DARPA has also constructed the AlphaDog, which is designed to interact with humans the way an actual dog would, and was created to lug gear during combat. Check out the newly-released video of AlphaDog below (also the picture on the left).

The things you can do with technology these days. What I'm wondering - is if these robots can be controlled solely by the human mind, will it not take away from the physical training and fitness a soldier has to undergo to prepare themselves for war? And talk about how mentally tough you have to be - will that decrease if your robotic other half is fighting for you? My guess, which would eliminate the downfalls of my questions, is that only the most elite of the military will be the ones with the bots.

Check out the full article here.
Image 1 via picktainment
Image 2 via Grind365

Which Car Can Power Traffic Lights?

2012-02-16T14:42:00.000-08:00

The Mitsubishi i, of course. It hasn't been attempted here in the U.S., but in Japan a group of Mitsubishi engineers alongside the National Police Agency decided to conduct an experiment where they hooked up a fully-charged Mitsu i to a portable emergency power inverter - and let there be light! The i independently ran 20 sets of stop lights in downtown Tokyo for two hours.

Did I mention it won Greenest Car of the Year?

To see the full article, click here.

Image 1 via freeclipartnow.com
Image 2 via About.com.

Electromagnetic Roads Will Charge Your Car While You're Driving

2012-02-15T10:42:00.000-08:00

Stanford University researchers are currently developing a wireless system that will magnetically charge your electric vehicle while you're driving.

Some EVs are limited to only 100 miles of driving before they need to be charged for ten hours to gain another 100. Stanford researchers wanted to fix this downfall by creating a way to "charge-as-you-drive". It will work by embedding copper coils underneath the EV as well as under the roadway, which will continuously give your battery charge - potentially leaving you with more stored energy at the end of your trip than you had when you started.

How long until we see these changes? Not for a few years - but this would certainly be a huge perk to owning an electric vehicle (other than you know, almost never buying gas and getting 112 miles per gallon like the Mitsu i).

To check out the full article, click here.

Information & photo courtesy of Digital Trends.

Greenest Car of the Year

2012-02-08T10:28:00.001-08:00

For the first time in eight years, the Honda Civic Natural Gas is not the greenest car in America - and for the first time in 12 years, an electric vehicle takes the cake.

The Mitsubishi i, Mitsubishi's first electric vehicle beat out the Nissan Leaf, Toyota Prius and CNG Civic. "To calculate their ratings, the ACEEE took into account manufacturing and recycling processes in addition to fuel economy and tailpipe emissions," according to the press release.

Go Mitsubishi! Not only for being socially responsible, but also because winning the Greenest Car is not easy these days. It's probably (or should be) the most competed-for spot.

For the full press release, click here.

Information and photo courtesy of autobloggreen.

The Best Way to Organize Your Apps

2012-02-07T10:52:00.000-08:00

Here's a new way to organize your apps on your phone that will make your home screen more user friendly, for you.

I just read through an article that suggest that you organize your app folders by action instead of just labeling them. Meaning, instead of labeling a folder food try eat, and instead of music try listen. This will help your brain organize your folders more clearly and better help you to navigate through your phone.

I just went to switch my folders over to test this out, and already got fumbled with how I was going to reorganize everything into actions. Seeing as how my folders are completely jumbled into categories that kind of make sense, though, I think this may not be a bad idea.

Image and all information via Lifehacker

January's Best Apps for iPhone, Android and iPad

2012-02-02T12:37:00.000-08:00

Gizmodo updated their list of the apps they think are the most essential to have. Whether they're fun, practical, or entertaining - they've got a list of what they think you'll love. Everything from sports apps, agendas, photo enhancers, fitness... See what the best apps are (so far) for 2012.

Startup Vermont Launch, Announced Today

2012-02-01T09:59:00.000-08:00

Vermont entrepreneurs alongside Vermont Secretary of Commerce and Community Development Lawrence Miller announced the launch of Startup Vermont earlier today. Startup Vermont is an initiative by VT entrepreneurs that will exist to open doors to people who are looking to start up new businesses.

"It will work to promote entrepreneurship, to support high growth startups, and to integrate and enhance Vermont’s ecosystem for the benefit of the state’s entrepreneurs," according to the press release. Mostly, it will work to get Vermonters more jobs, and help potential business owners to begin living out their goals.

Startup Vermont is in conjunction with Startup America, and is one of seven states who are joining the Startup initiative as of January 2012 (others are Hawaii, Kansas, Michigan, Missouri, Nebraska, Rhode Island, and Virginia and the District of Columbia), while Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, Iowa, Massachusetts, Tennessee and Texas are already participating.

Check out this video marking the anniversary of Startup America.

To see the full press release, click here.

Information courtesy of vtdigger.com. Picture 1 via Startup America, picture 2 via Vermont Chamber of Commerce.

The Batmobile Actually Exists in Dubai

2012-01-31T12:19:00.000-08:00

This is really someone's personal vehicle that they drive daily. An excellent replica of Tim Burton's Batmobile (unless it's actually the real thing). Dubai has a few things to brag about; palm tree shaped land, ridiculously expensive condos, thriving businesses and now, they're the proud owners of the Batmobile. I'm not being sarcastic either - Dubai is really, really cool.

Via Jalopnik.com

Why the apocalypse will not be happening in 2012

2012-01-30T10:17:00.000-08:00

If you're nervous about the world ending in December, here's a video that may ease your anxiety. The guy who does these videos (C.G.P. Grey) is either a genius or an amazing researcher (or both), because his entire YouTube channel is a slew of videos that explain, well, everything - and do it in fine detail.

He has quite the variety, too; from how caucuses and primaries work, to what the difference is between Great Britain and England (I pretended to know this for a long time until I watched the video and now, thankfully, know the truth). Check out his video that explains the foundation behind our near-future "apocalypse" and how it's unlikely that it will really happen - at least in December of 2012.

Image courtesy of islandcrisis.net

The Five Hardest Jobs to Fill in 2012

2012-01-27T10:03:00.000-08:00

2012 is going to be a big year for start-up companies - as it was in 2011. Here is a list of the five most competitive jobs that are both highest in demand, and most difficult to fill:

1. Software Engineers and Web Developers

There is a huge need for this position and not near enough the people to fill the positions available. Companies are struggling finding a good amount of technological engineers.

2. Creative Design and User Experience

This is extremely important to companies because they're trying to encompass a user experience that's effective and inviting to potential customers.

3. Product Management

Since companies (especially new ones) are getting more technologically complex, it's difficult for them to find people who have relative experience with their product.

4. Marketing

The new-age marketing is much different from the marketing we've known up until recently. Now, there is a high demand for marketers who fluently understand (and know how to effectively use) social media, content development and viral web traffic.

5. Analytics

Since there are plentiful ways to measure customer's experiences and practices online; there are plenty of stats to show a company what methods they use actually work. People who can analyze this data and use it to benefit the company are extremely valuable.

If you're interested in reading the full article, go to Inc.com

If you're talented in one of these fields, go to Craigslist

Five Most Common Engine Light Causes

2012-01-25T10:14:00.001-08:00

Believe it or not - I got this information from an article on Lifehacker. But don't worry, they're wise people over there and they do know what they're talking about. Here is a list of the five most common reasons why your engine light will turn on, and what to do about it.

1. Replace Oxygen Sensor

What it is: This is the part of your vehicle that helps monitor how much fuel is burned; "Over time, the sensor gets covered in oil ash and it reduces the sensors ability to change the oxygen and fuel mixture. A faulty sensor not only reduces gas mileage, it also increase emissions.

How to fix it: This is something that needs to be taken care of right away, but you can do it yourself to avoid extra costs (taking it to a shop can cost you about $200). Check out your owner's menu, which should show you how to unclip it and replace it with a new one. For a video on how to do it yourself, click here.

2. Loose or Faulty Gas Cap

What it is: When your gas cap is loose or cracked, it causes fuel vapors to leak out.

How to fix it: As long as your car isn't feeling jerky and is seemingly running smoothly, this is the first thing you should check. Pull over and tighten it, and if that doesn't solve your engine light problem, you can purchase a new gas cap for about $3 - just take the old one off, and put the new one one.

3. Replace Catalytic Converter

What it is: Your catalytic converter's job is to reduce exhaust gases, so when it's faulty you may notice a decrease in gas mileage, or your car will fail to accelerate when you push the gas pedal.

How to fix it: Unfortunately, this isn't really a do it yourself option, and can be very pricey (up to $2,000). Ultimately if it fails completely your car will stop running. And until it's fixed your gas mileage will suffer immensely.

4. Replace Mass Airflow Sensor

What it is: Based on the air coming through the engine, the mass airflow sensor tells the car's computer to add the proper appropriate of fuel. Problems occur when your air filter is installed improperly, or badly needs a change.

How to fix it: You can drive with this issue without real risk, but your gas mileage will decrease and your vehicle will stall frequently. This typically costs about $200-$300, and while it's possible to do on your own, it's better to have it done by a mechanic so as to not run into the issue again.

5. Replace Spark Plugs and Wires

What it is: Your spark plugs and wires should be replaced about every 25,000-30,000 miles, and never more than 100,000 miles. "The spark plug seals the combustion chamber and provides a gab for a spark to jump across and initiates combustion in your engine. When the plugs are failing, the spark plugs misfire. You'll feel a little jolt in your car's acceleration when this happens."

How to fix it: This is a simple enough fix to do on your own, and should be done immediately for the betterment of your vehicle. Watch the video below for how to do it yourself.

To read the full article, click here to go to Lifehacker.

Mitsubishi Hints About Geneva Debut

2012-01-25T05:02:00.000-08:00

Mitsubishi continues to drop a few hints about what vehicle they'll be featuring at the Geneva auto show in March. To the right is a teaser picture, which shows similarity to the PX-MiEV II SUV concept they unveiled at the Tokyo auto show in November.

Mitsubishi general design manager Hiroaki Ohtsuka said that the new vehicle "reflects a gradual transformation in Mitsubishi design language."

People are guessing that it will be the new Mitsubishi Outlander, but Mitsubishi hasn't confirmed this. They said they're switching gears (if you will) from SUV development, to focusing on the environmental aspects of driving. They said that their goal is for hybrid and electric vehicles to account for 20 percent of their sales by 2020.

Information and picture courtesy of Automotive News, click here to read the full article.

The new gasoline alternative: Seaweed?

2012-01-23T12:14:00.000-08:00

Gizmodo just posted this article about a lab that has found a microbe that uses very little energy to convert the sugars in edible seaweed to ethanol. The article says that using seaweed could only really account for 1 percent of the nation's gasoline - but if it works, how bad of an idea can it be?

Gizmodo touches on the simple facts that actually make this a great idea;

1. Seaweed is grown underwater, so it wouldn't take up any crop space above ground
2. It grows without fertilizer or irrigation
3. It doesn't require much energy to turn into fuel
4. Biofuels (the future alternative to fuel) are extremely expensive and difficult to make

Personally, I'd like to know who thinks of these things. Of course there are people with scientific backgrounds who spend their lives coming up with genius ideas to make the rest of our lives easier and more efficient - but seaweed? fuel? seaweed-fuel? Very impressive.

Check out the article at Gizmodo.com, or if you want the full scientific article, check it out on Scientific American.

Gary Olney's story of his antique cars

2012-01-20T05:29:00.000-08:00

Here's an article that the Burlington Free Press printed this morning about a man named Gary Olney and his plethora of antique cars. He says that each car has a story behind it, and indeed goes on to tell a few of those stories in the article.

Olney has a real passion for antique vehicles. It's amazing to see someone who has put so much work into these cars and finds so much love in what he does. He seems to have a real connection to each one; and in fact says that most of the cars he owns were originally his father's, and have been around since he was just ten years old.

Check out the full article at the Burlington Free Press to see a fellow Vermonter and fellow vehicle enthusiast.

All information, including the picture, courtesy of the Burlington Free Press.

How to: Organize and Personalize your Desktop

2012-01-19T11:04:00.001-08:00

Lifehacker posted this video to show how to organize and personalize your desktop. The video shows how to do it in Photoshop, but you can do it on any other photo editing software too. Basically, you choose your own background image and make labeled "shapes" that you can drag your desktop icons on to. Sounds a little bit confusing, but it took me about ten minutes to do - it's really simple!

The picture is the finished product of mine. Kind of feminine... but of course you can choose your own background, color schemes and font. Check out the video below and please feel free to post if you have any questions. Enjoy.

It's Electric!

2012-01-18T12:34:00.000-08:00

Mitsubishi is just releasing its first electric vehicle to retail customers. Sales have just begun in Hawaii and are beginning in the West Coast now.

The Mitsubishi i is said to cost the driver just $550 dollars a year. The best part - is that it only costs about $21,000. Not too bad when mixed nicely with its annual cost to drive. The i is said to go roughly 62.3 miles for each charge depending on whether the user is on the city or the highway.

For more info, check out the full article at blogs.cars.com

How-to completely customize your iDevices

2012-01-17T09:14:00.000-08:00

Here is a really cool article on how to completely customize your iPhone, both on the inside and the outside. Learn how to change your icons, background and lock screen - among many other things.

This article gives you ways to change your iPhone after you "jailbreak" it (a process in which you disengage your phone from its current Apple limitations), but also gives you alternatives to edit and personalize your phone settings without going as far as to actually "jailbreak" it.

Check out the full article and complete directions for customization - click here for How to Customize Your iPhone, Inside and Out.