A recent nationwide survey showed that Americans believe gasoline prices as the country’s top economic issue.
Mitsubishi Motor Company says that rising oil and gasoline prices are causing more than 70% of motorists financial hardship and forcing them to cut back on driving in some way.
That’s why the Japanese automaker has started a new campaign. Customers who buy 2005 model year vehicles before the end of October will receive a year’s worth of gasoline. But don’t trade-in just yet.
The company said that each customer will receive pre-paid debit cards in the mail that can be used for gasoline at most major motor oil companies’ retail locations.
The will give buyers pre-paid debit cards worth $1,500 to $2,500. The amount depends on the vehicle’s fuel efficiency and whether it requires regular or premium gas. The offer assumes customers will drive 12,000 miles a year and runs through the end of October.
For some consumers, a year’s worth of free gas may be considered pretty attractive as an incentive, given that pump prices in some areas are hovering just below record highs.
But the "Gas Comes Standard" campaign is really nothing more than a cash back offer. Plus the offer is only good for 2005 model-year cars. But the campaign, I’ll admit, is a great marketing angle. It’s only a matter of time before other car manufactures jump on the bandwagon as well.
– Luke Burgess
