K9 in ‘09: Dog Friendly Element

Lou Maggiulli (University Honda Sales Professional) combined visiting family in New Jersey with an outing to the New York Auto Expo. Lou Maggiulli has been a valued asset to University Honda for over 12 years now. While Lou has been a long time Corvallis resident, his family roots, and most of his favorite foods reside on the east coast. One of Lou’s best qualities is his expert knowledge of the Honda product, and it is because of extra activities like this that he has become so well versed.

The New York Auto Expo is a major event in the automotive industry. You can see many rare cars that you would most likely never see again. However, along with the flashy sports cars, most auto manufacturers attend these expos to present they’re latest and greatest. According to Lou, the Honda presentation was “Well attended.” Most visitors were viewing our new hybrid, the 2010 Insight. But there was another presentation that was capturing people’s attention, especially dog owners. This would be Honda’s all new “dog friendly” 2009 Element EX!

The new Element exterior looks just like the current Elements on the market with one subtle difference. There is a unique “dog friendly” badge on the back, and another paw print badge on the front panel. Honda has already made the Element a very versatile vehicle designed with recreation in mind. All Elements come with wide suicide doors, easily removable seats, optional “real time” four wheel drive, and an interior that can be easily wiped clean. Now Honda has decided to take it a step further for man’s best friend. This special Element has all the current features plus a few extra amenities, which include:

* Rear ventilation fan
* A Cushioned and elevated built-in rear dog bed
* Pet restraining systems for both the second-row and rear areas (now your dogs can follow seat belt laws)
* An extendable ramp to help your dogs get in and out without having to jump or be lifted
* Removable, and washable second-row seat covers with dog pattern. (the same pattern that is on the dog bed)
* Spill resistant water bowl
* All season rubber floor mats with a special dog bone pattern
* Special “Dog Friendly” exterior emblems.

This new dogged out element is set to be available this fall. Just in time to give your pet that ultimate holiday gift! If you’re not a dog lover, don’t worry; the regular Element will still be available. But we sure thought this new one was pretty creative!!