Jul 30, 2008

Auto Dealers Drive Down Green Street

Auto dealerships with their garish buildings and giant electric signs aren’t known for being environmentally conscious, but now an increasing number of buyers seeking eco-conscious vehicles are looking to buy them from eco-conscious dealers. And so far, that’s been a big disconnect, but now some dealers are climbing on the green bandwagon.

One problem is that going green hasn't always been economically friendly. In fact, the initial cost of developing a more energy-efficient building can be 10 percent higher than using standard equipment or more. But with the recent rise in energy costs, the payback period for the extra investment is starting to shrink. The economics of sustainable building is proving that in the long run, using more energy-efficient equipment can benefit the bottom line -- and most important, attract customers. A dealer of hybrid cars who walks the walk is increasingly on the mindset of car buyers.

Traditionally, car dealerships come with specific challenges to reaching green status with issues like large showroom windows, giant electric signs and emissions from repair shops. But with sustainable practices like skylights to cut electricity costs, geothermal energy to heat and cool the building, and rainwater for the car wash, at least a few dealers are making a green commitment while decreasing their energy costs.