Autoblog

Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[VIDEO: New Toyota Prius ad channels Vishnu to explain hybrid tech]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/video-new-toyota-prius-ad-channels-vishnu-to-explain-hybrid-tec/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/video-new-toyota-prius-ad-channels-vishnu-to-explain-hybrid-tec/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/video-new-toyota-prius-ad-channels-vishnu-to-explain-hybrid-tec/#commentsFiled under: Hybrid, Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Toyota, Australia

Australian Toyota Prius advertisement - Click above to watch the video after the break

What do you want from me... I've only got two hands?! Wouldn't we all be a bit more productive if we were blessed with another set of upper appendages, complete with opposable thumbs? Toyota apparently thinks so, and the Japanese automotive giant is using the point to prove that two drivetrains are better than one.

Of course, the two drivetrains in question belong to the new 2010 Toyota Prius, which mates an electric motor capable of powering the car by its lonesome (albeit briefly) and a small, efficient gas-burning 1.8-liter four cylinder internal combustion engine in one happy marriage to produce the perfect hybrid. Or something like that.

Click past the break to watch the advertisement for the new 2010 Prius in Australia. Oh, and Vishnu? Click here for an explanation of the title reference. Thanks for the tip, Mark C!

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: New Toyota Prius ad channels Vishnu to explain hybrid tech

VIDEO: New Toyota Prius ad channels Vishnu to explain hybrid tech originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 11:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 prius ad2010 prius teaser2010 toyota prius2010PriusAd2010PriusTeaser2010ToyotaPriusadadvertisingaustralian prius adAustralianPriusAdpricingpriustoyotaToyota Australiatoyota priustoyota prius adToyotaAustraliaToyotaPriusToyotaPriusAdTue, 27 Oct 2009 11:22:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Production Cadillac CTS Coupe breaks through in new 60-second spot]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/31/video-production-cadillac-cts-coupe-breaks-through-in-new-60-se/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/31/video-production-cadillac-cts-coupe-breaks-through-in-new-60-se/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/31/video-production-cadillac-cts-coupe-breaks-through-in-new-60-se/#commentsFiled under: Coupe, Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Cadillac, Luxury

Cadillac's Re-Ignition ad -- Click above to view the video after the jump

With the tagline "America, we have re-ignition," Cadillac is out to reintroduce itself to buyers. After bursting out of their underground bunker, the spot showcases all of the models in the line - and at least one to come. The ad has begun to hit the airwaves, and it features what appears to be the production version of Cadillac's much-anticipated CTS Coupe. The only question is: will consumers feel the fire? Follow the jump to see the spot and check out our high-res gallery of the concept below. Thanks for the tip, Matt!

Gallery: Detroit 2008: Cadillac CTS Coupe Concept - Live Reveal

[Source: Cadilac via YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Production Cadillac CTS Coupe breaks through in new 60-second spot

VIDEO: Production Cadillac CTS Coupe breaks through in new 60-second spot originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 31 Aug 2009 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adadvertisementadvertisingcadillaccommercialctscts coupects sportwagonCtsCoupeCtsSportwagongmmarketingsrxvideoyoutubeMon, 31 Aug 2009 14:59:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Saab 9-3X commercial is all about changing perspective(s)]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/27/video-saab-9-3x-commercial-is-all-about-changing-perspective-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/27/video-saab-9-3x-commercial-is-all-about-changing-perspective-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/27/video-saab-9-3x-commercial-is-all-about-changing-perspective-s/#commentsFiled under: Wagon, Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Saab

2010 Saab 9-3X commercial - Click above to watch video

Saab really has been changing perspective lately, from the look of its cars to the people who decide on the look of its cars. That kind of thing will happen when you enter bankruptcy and are sold back into the bosom of your homeland. So this Saab 9-3X commercial is a, yes, quirky, look at the the philosophy behind Trollhatten's finest. Who else would make an ad that includes a paper airplane, an ant, a moose and a pine cone to advertise a station wagon?

Follow the jump to watch the video or check out Saab's new lifted wagon in all its high-res glory in our gallery below.

Gallery: 2010 Saab 9-3X

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Saab 9-3X commercial is all about changing perspective(s)

VIDEO: Saab 9-3X commercial is all about changing perspective(s) originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 27 Aug 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 9-3X2010 saab 9-3X20109-3x2010Saab9-3x9-3Xadadvertisementborn from jetsBornFromJetscommercialsaabsaab 9-3saab 9-3Xsaab adsaab commercialSaab9-3Saab9-3xSaabAdSaabCommercialvideowagonThu, 27 Aug 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[What is 230? GM knows, but isn't saying...]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/07/what-is-230-gm-knows-but-isnt-say/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/07/what-is-230-gm-knows-but-isnt-say/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/07/what-is-230-gm-knows-but-isnt-say/#commentsFiled under: Marketing/Advertising, GM

The graphic above has been appearing all over the place -- television, billboards, elevators, baseball games, even people's shirts. It has a blog, Flickr and Facebook pages, and a YouTube channel. What it doesn't have is an explanation. Ad Age lined up the perps behind the online assets and discovered they all have a GM connection, and GM has a news conference scheduled for August 11.

The question is what that news conference will be about and how will the number 230 factor into it? Guesses so far range from the Buick PHEV announced yesterday (doubtful) to the Chevy Volt's mpg number (uhh, no) to, oddly enough, the Aptera. Feel free to add your own guess to the mix in the comments below... or to wait until next Tuesday for the 230 wizard to speak.

[Source: Ad Age]

What is 230? GM knows, but isn't saying... originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 07 Aug 2009 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>230adadsadvertisinggeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmmarketingwhat is 230WhatIs230Fri, 07 Aug 2009 16:01:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Go Daddy teases raciest-yet Danica Patrick ad for Indy 500]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/22/video-godaddy-plans-raciest-yet-danica-patrick-ad-during-indy-5/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/22/video-godaddy-plans-raciest-yet-danica-patrick-ad-during-indy-5/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/22/video-godaddy-plans-raciest-yet-danica-patrick-ad-during-indy-5/#commentsFiled under: Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Celebrities

GoDaddy and Danica: Click above to view the commercial after the jump

Go Daddy commercials are well known for two things: 1) Having little to do with web hosting and domains, and 2) Making use of attractive women in suggestive situations. During the Super Bowl, Go Daddy threw racer Danica Patrick into a shower with a college German instructor. The two girls theme continues with a new spot that places Ms. Patrick in a vintage Ford Mustang convertible with a sultry female police officer that seems quite excited about web hosting.

To Go Daddy's credit, there is a lot more service selling in this 30 second spot, which predictably ends with a disrobing followed by an invitation to head over to GoDaddy.com to see what happens next. Go Daddy founder and CEO Bob Parsons called the teaser and full two minute web-only spot "the hottest commercial we've ever made." No arguments here. Hit the jump to view the 30-second teaser for yourself, followed by the Go Daddy press release detailing the airtime plans during this weekend's Indianapolis 500 race.

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Go Daddy teases raciest-yet Danica Patrick ad for Indy 500

VIDEO: Go Daddy teases raciest-yet Danica Patrick ad for Indy 500 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 22 May 2009 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adBob ParsonsBobParsonscommercialDanicadanica patrickDanicaPatrickgo daddyGoDaddyIndianapolis 500Indianapolis500Indy 500Indy500Fri, 22 May 2009 12:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Used Integra, CHEAP!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/06/used-integra-cheap-slight-body-damage/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/06/used-integra-cheap-slight-body-damage/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/06/used-integra-cheap-slight-body-damage/#commentsFiled under: Car Buying, Etc., Marketing/Advertising, Acura, Canada

Normally, the phrase "only rolled once" isn't considered a positive attribute in a used car ad. For the sellers of this distressed 1999 Acura Integra, however, it's a defining characteristic. The high points (now low, due to the vehicle's inverted status) are that the parts should be in fine shape on this 60,000 mile example. If you needed an engine, trans or interior from a low mileage donor, this might be your car. We do hope that it didn't stay upside down for long, though, for the engine's sake. If not, all the oil that's likely filled up the cylinders will make starting a challenge.

[Source: Dave's Daily]

Used Integra, CHEAP! originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 06 Mar 2008 07:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acuraadclassifiedcrashcrashedfunnyintegrarolledusedwreckwreckedThu, 06 Mar 2008 07:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Today's Lexus is brought to you by the letter "H" - new hybrid advertising campaign]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/08/todays-lexus-is-brought-to-you-by-the-letter-h-new-hybrid-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/08/todays-lexus-is-brought-to-you-by-the-letter-h-new-hybrid-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/08/todays-lexus-is-brought-to-you-by-the-letter-h-new-hybrid-a/#commentsFiled under: Hybrid, Green, Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Lexus

Offsetting the GX and LX opulence-filled 'Utes posessed of large mass, Lexus has trotted out an advertising blitz focusing on its Hybrid vehicles. The campaign, which imagines a world without "H," points out that Lexus has had hybrid cars and SUVs on the road since 2004. The new campaign is titled "the power of h" and features television spots, print spreads, and other media that depicts an environment where H has given up all other pursuits for a post in the Lexus Hybrid revolution. It's clever, and we're glad that Lexus didn't actually try to trademark one of the most commonly used letters. Oh, and the ads? Let's just say its interesting to see the medium of video transmogrified into an ersatz page of text. Teaser spots and press release after the jump.

[Source: Lexus]

Continue reading Today's Lexus is brought to you by the letter "H" - new hybrid advertising campaign

Today's Lexus is brought to you by the letter "H" - new hybrid advertising campaign originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 Feb 2008 09:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adadvertisingcommercialshhybridlexusls600hpower of hPowerOfHprintrx400hspotstvFri, 08 Feb 2008 09:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Whoops, eh? - Canadian Ford ad spurs backlash]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/20/whoops-eh-canadian-ford-ad-spurs-backlash/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/20/whoops-eh-canadian-ford-ad-spurs-backlash/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/20/whoops-eh-canadian-ford-ad-spurs-backlash/#commentsFiled under: Marketing/Advertising, Crossover, Ford

The Catch-22 with advertising these days is that someone will undoubtedly be offended if your campaign is clever enough to be memorable. Ford of Canada came up with such an effort for the Escape, showing the CUV wearing a bumper sticker with the phrase "drive it like you stole it," and the tagline "Built for life in Manitoba." Innocuous enough, you say? Apparently not.

We can't say for sure if it's just people looking for things to get offended over, or if Canadians are just hypersensitive to Manitoba's reputation as a car theft hotspot. Either way, Ford has responded to the politically correct whining and pulled the ad while offering copious apologies. While car theft and traffic accidents are no laughing matter, especially when innocent people are tragically injured, you can't blame a car advertising campaign that uses an exceedingly common phrase for inducing an already rampant problem. We fail to see how people commiting criminal acts have anything to do with the automaker's sales efforts. Certainly, the message sent by the advertisement is that the Escape is tough enough for Canada, not that it's the car of choice for boosting. It'd be nice to see a company under unreasonable fire just offer up something like "whatevs, get a thicker skin." It's advertising, after all, not the cure for cancer. Of course, it would also have been easy enough to say "Drive it like you hate it" and send largely the same message.

Thanks for the tip, Richard!

[Source: CBC]

Whoops, eh? - Canadian Ford ad spurs backlash originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 20 Jan 2008 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adadvertisingcanadacontroversyescapefordmanitobaoffendprintpullstolenthefttoughwithdrawSun, 20 Jan 2008 17:29:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Raikkonen and Schumacher in Fiat Bravo commercial]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/11/video-raikkonen-and-schumacher-in-fiat-bravo-commercial/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/11/video-raikkonen-and-schumacher-in-fiat-bravo-commercial/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/11/video-raikkonen-and-schumacher-in-fiat-bravo-commercial/#commentsFiled under: Motorsports, Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Ferrari, Fiat

"So...wanna see a pensioner drive?"

Michael Schumacher casts a pretty big shadow over all of F1, and nobody knows it better than Kimi Raikkonen. That's bred a little animosity by Ferrari's latest world champion to his septuple-crown predecessor, but that hasn't stopped either from fulfilling their contractual obligations towards their corporate overlords at Fiat by appearing side-by side, swapping keys in a television commercial for the new Fiat Bravo.

The ad reminds us of a similar spot filmed with uber-rivals Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso earlier in the season for their employers at Mercedes-Benz. The same spirit of, ahem, "camaraderie" permeates this Fiat spot, filmed in German, in which Kimi and Michael take turns behind the wheel and riding shotgun. Follow the jump for the video, complete with - God bless 'em - English subtitles.

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Raikkonen and Schumacher in Fiat Bravo commercial

VIDEO: Raikkonen and Schumacher in Fiat Bravo commercial originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 11 Dec 2007 18:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adbravocommercialfiatkimimichaelraikkonenschumacherspottelevisiontjettvvideoTue, 11 Dec 2007 18:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Four automakers doing Super Bowl spots, Audi first in 20 years]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/07/four-automakers-doing-super-bowl-spots-audi-first-in-20-years/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/07/four-automakers-doing-super-bowl-spots-audi-first-in-20-years/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/07/four-automakers-doing-super-bowl-spots-audi-first-in-20-years/#commentsFiled under: Marketing/Advertising, Audi, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GM, Hyundai, Toyota

When viewers tune-in to watch the 42nd annual Super Bowl on February 3rd, four automakers - Chevrolet, Hyundai, Toyota and Audi - will compete for the hearts and minds of the gridiron-obsessed masses.

Chevy is only planning one, 60-second ad during the second quarter, while Cadillac will be featured during the pre- and post-game shows. Toyota has two spots of undetermined length, which are expected to hype the redesigned Sequoia and the Tundra pickup, while Hyundai will finally throw its hat onto the Astroturf with two, 30-second spots.

Audi is returning to the game after a 20-year hiatus with a minute-long ad featuring the R8, and we'd expect the spot to focus on the automaker's blitz to become the dominant luxury manufacturer on Earth.

Also of note, Cars.com will be ponying up the required $2.7 million dollars for a 30-second spot, which is causing us to consider renting some ad time on the Goodyear blimp -- or just shooting Neff out of a cannon with an Autoblog-badged cape.

[Source: Audi, Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Four automakers doing Super Bowl spots, Audi first in 20 years originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 07 Dec 2007 19:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adaudichevroletchevyhyundaisuper bowlSuperBowltoyotaFri, 07 Dec 2007 19:04:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Rally-racing is easier than it looks...]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/22/video-rally-racing-is-easier-than-it-looks/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/22/video-rally-racing-is-easier-than-it-looks/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/22/video-rally-racing-is-easier-than-it-looks/#commentsFiled under: Motorsports, Europe, Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Hatchback, Fiat

click above image to view video

Fiat is banking heavy on the re-launch of its historic Abarth tuning brand. It's got several models coming up, including hot versions of the Grande Punto and 500. It's rebranded its S2000 rally racing team under the Abarth name, and has done the same with its sponsorship of Valetino Rossi's championship-winning Yamaha MotoGP bike. There's even talk about a dedicated sports car.

To tie together what is targeted as a blend between its racing prowess and road manners, the Fiat subsidiary has put together this creative little video that reminds us of that golden oldie, "The Little Old Lady from Pasadena". Thankfully they didn't put that into the soundtrack, letting us enjoy the uninhibited roar of the racing engine. Check it out after the jump and remember, "IN RACING WE TRUST!"

[Source: Italiaspeed]

Continue reading VIDEO: Rally-racing is easier than it looks...

VIDEO: Rally-racing is easier than it looks... originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Oct 2007 19:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abarthadcommercialfiatpuntorallys2000tvvideoMon, 22 Oct 2007 19:31:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Boys will be Boys...especially in a McLaren]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/23/video-boys-will-be-boys-especially-in-a-mclaren/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/23/video-boys-will-be-boys-especially-in-a-mclaren/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/23/video-boys-will-be-boys-especially-in-a-mclaren/#commentsFiled under: Motorsports, Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Mercedes-Benz

As far as rivalries go in Formula One, the competition between two drivers in the same team is far more intense than that between rival squads. Few have articulated that point quite as vividly as Fernando Alonso and Lewis Hamilton, the two star drivers at McLaren-Mercedes. One's a returning back-to-back world champion, and the other a wet-behind-the-ears rookie if there ever was one. But yesterday's race notwithstanding, the rookie's been acing the champion in classic style. As anyone who's been following this post-Schumacher season can tell you, it's been pretty intense.

Leave it to the Germans to lighten things up a bit. (Yeah, the Germans.) Mercedes, who, don't forget, through its Ilmor subsidiary, supplies the engines for Lewis' and Fernando's cars, put together this commercial. The video after the jump reminds us of two things: (a) a scene from that *ahem* "classic film" Days of Thunder, and (b) just how childish men can get... especially when it comes to fast cars.

[Source: Motor Authority]

Continue reading VIDEO: Boys will be Boys...especially in a McLaren

VIDEO: Boys will be Boys...especially in a McLaren originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Jul 2007 21:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adalonsocommercialcompetitionfernandohamiltonlewismclarenmercedesrivalryspottvMon, 23 Jul 2007 21:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Ad attack: Chrysler unveils new spots with "Engineered Beautifully" tagline]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/07/ad-attack-chrysler-unveils-new-spots-with-engineered-beautiful/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/07/ad-attack-chrysler-unveils-new-spots-with-engineered-beautiful/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/07/ad-attack-chrysler-unveils-new-spots-with-engineered-beautiful/#commentsFiled under: Marketing/Advertising, Chrysler

Assembled in the YouTube clip above are four brand new commercials from Chrysler that the automaker hopes will convey the message that its lineup offers "world-class quality and engineering at an extraordinary value". Thus, the new tagline for the campaign is "Engineered Beautifully".

The first spot, titled Technology Throughout, is 60 seconds long and uses the CGI technique du jour of taking us inside select vehicles to see various technologies at work. The second spot, called Key to Happiness, is 30 seconds long and highlights the new Sebring Convertible. The third, titled Success, is 30 seconds long and attempts to remind the collective that Chrysler's still keeping its stylish 300 sedan relevant with new technology. The final spot revealed by Chrysler today highlights the mileage of such vehicles as the 300 sedan, PT Cruiser and Sebring sedan. There's a fifth spot called Taking Care, which also highlights the new Sebring Convertible, that Chrysler didn't provide in the above YouTube video.

If you watch shows like Grey's Anatomy, Dancing with the Stars, Conan O'Brien or the ongoing NBA Playoffs, then you'll likely come across these ads in the wild. Do they resonate with you, or is Chrysler just trying to remind folks it's still here? The press release from Chrysler is after the jump.

[Source: Chrysler]

Continue reading Ad attack: Chrysler unveils new spots with "Engineered Beautifully" tagline

Ad attack: Chrysler unveils new spots with "Engineered Beautifully" tagline originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 May 2007 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adadvertisementadvertisingcommercialcommercialsspotMon, 07 May 2007 15:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Update: despite protests, Arnold gets Volvo's advertising]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/30/update-despite-protests-arnold-gets-volvos-advertising/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/30/update-despite-protests-arnold-gets-volvos-advertising/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/30/update-despite-protests-arnold-gets-volvos-advertising/#commentsFiled under: Etc., Marketing/Advertising, Volvo

A while back, Men's-issue advocate Glenn Sacks was leading the call against Volvo shacking up with Arnold Worldwide. The contention centered around how men and fathers are portrayed in some of Arnold's work. At stake was $150 million in advertising dollars from the Swedish brand. The decision has been made, and despite the hue and cry, Boston-based Arnold won the contract away from incumbent EuroRSCG. It was actually a joint victory -- Arnold will be teaming up with London's Nitro as they move ahead with Volvo.

[Source: Volvo via Swedespeed]

Continue reading Update: despite protests, Arnold gets Volvo's advertising

Update: despite protests, Arnold gets Volvo's advertising originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 30 Apr 2007 08:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adadvertisingadvocacyagencyarnoldeurorscgfatherfatherhoodglennglenn sacksGlennSacksmaleparentssacksspotsvolvoMon, 30 Apr 2007 08:03:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: My gearbox is better than yours]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/27/video-my-gearbox-is-better-than-yours/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/27/video-my-gearbox-is-better-than-yours/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/27/video-my-gearbox-is-better-than-yours/#commentsFiled under: Marketing/Advertising, Technology, Videos, Volkswagen

This ad takes us back to our childhood, when transmissions came in manual and automatic. That was it. Today's kids have sequentials, continuously variable ratios, dual clutches, paddle shifters, manually-shifted automatics, automatic-shifting manuals and a gazillion other variations to confuse them when pretending to drive.

We could try to explain the technology behind Volkswagen's DSG transmission until we're blue in the face, or you could simply follow the jump to watch a couple of kids do it for us. It's so simple, it's child's play.

Disclaimer: No actual children were harmed by Autoblog or by Volkswagen in the presentation of this video.

[Source: German Car Scene via Carscoop]

Continue reading VIDEO: My gearbox is better than yours

VIDEO: My gearbox is better than yours originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Apr 2007 18:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adchildrenclutchcommercialdsgdualfilmkidstelevisiontransmissionvolkswagenvolskwagenvwFri, 27 Apr 2007 18:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Porsche Carrera GT promo]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/22/video-porsche-carrera-gt-promo/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/22/video-porsche-carrera-gt-promo/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/22/video-porsche-carrera-gt-promo/#commentsFiled under: Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Supercars, Porsche

Most commercials we see on television pitch products like soft drinks and toilet paper - you know, the kind of things that most people buy and most people can afford. There's certainly no shortage of car commercials, either, but they likewise typically focus on mass-market automobiles like the Volkswagen Rabbit or Dodge Caliber. But a commercial for a million-dollar supercar?

The superlative Carrera GT is a piece of automotive excellence that can speak for itself, but the fellas down in Stuttgart evidently felt it deserved a promo ad and threw this one together. The video after the jump draws on Porsche's innovations and racing experience to introduce the race-bred Carrera GT, highlighting its lightweight V10 engine, carbon ceramic brakes and ceramic clutch.

Okay, Porsche, we're sold.

[Source: German Car Scene]

Continue reading Video: Porsche Carrera GT promo

Video: Porsche Carrera GT promo originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 22 Apr 2007 17:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adadvertisementcarreracommercialgtporschepromopromotionalvideoSun, 22 Apr 2007 17:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford airing two new Edge commercials tonight directed by David Mamet]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/17/ford-airing-two-new-edge-commercials-tonight-directed-by-david-m/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/17/ford-airing-two-new-edge-commercials-tonight-directed-by-david-m/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/17/ford-airing-two-new-edge-commercials-tonight-directed-by-david-m/#commentsFiled under: Marketing/Advertising, Crossover, Ford

Ford has commissioned writer and director David Mamet to produce two new commercials for the Edge CUV that will make their TV debut during tonight's episode of American Idol Their real debut is right here, however, where we've included both commercials for your viewing enjoyment.

Mamet is best known for the screenplays he's written, which include Ronin, The Edge, Glengarry Glen Ross, and Wag the Dog, among many others. He's also written and directed many episodes on TV for shows like "The Unit" and "The Shield". His two spots for the Edge highlight how Ford's CUV stack up against more expensive competition, specifically the BMW X5 and Lexus RS350. The commercials will inform viewers that it's faster than the former and quieter than the latter. We find the characters in the commercials a bit annoying, although it's clear their witty dialogue is what we're supposed to be paying attention to.

Check out the second commercial after the jump.

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Ford airing two new Edge commercials tonight directed by David Mamet

Ford airing two new Edge commercials tonight directed by David Mamet originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Apr 2007 14:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adamerican idolAmericanIdolcommercialdavid mametDavidMametford edgeFordEdgespotTue, 17 Apr 2007 14:27:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Tiger underhood! '65 GTO commercial]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/25/video-tiger-underhood-65-gto-commercial/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/25/video-tiger-underhood-65-gto-commercial/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/25/video-tiger-underhood-65-gto-commercial/#commentsFiled under: Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Pontiac

Back before engine bays were tightly packed, feline friends would sometimes hop up on a warm engine in the cooler weather. Proximity to the cooling fan would occasionally lead to ah, colorful results. We're sure that no tigers were harmed in the filming of this '65 GTO commercial that the guys at WheelsTV dug up. The Pontiac line was sold with the "Wide-Track Tiger" descriptor. The advertising guys did a nice job getting the Poncho to eat the tiger, though, and it's always fun to waste a little time watching vintage advertising. We can just imagine all the pointless ass-covering fig leaves that'd be supered at the bottom of the picture were this ad to play today.

[Source: WheelsTV]

Continue reading VIDEO: Tiger underhood! '65 GTO commercial

VIDEO: Tiger underhood! '65 GTO commercial originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 25 Mar 2007 12:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adadvertisingcommercialGTOspottigertvvintagevintage advertisingVintageAdvertisingwide trackwidetrackSun, 25 Mar 2007 12:21:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Renault keyless entry keeps you from freezing your nuts off]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/15/video-renault-keyless-entry-keeps-you-from-freezing-your-nuts-o/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/15/video-renault-keyless-entry-keeps-you-from-freezing-your-nuts-o/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/15/video-renault-keyless-entry-keeps-you-from-freezing-your-nuts-o/#commentsFiled under: Europe, Marketing/Advertising, Technology, Videos, Renault

Anyone who's lived in a cold climate can appreciate not having to take out a key when the thermometer drops below freezing. Keyless entry is good, but a keycard that stays in your pocket is even better, as demonstrated in this commercial from Renault, which makes the argument painfully obvious.

Follow the jump to learn a good lesson about keeping all extremities covered in those cold winter climes.

[Source: Winding Road]

Continue reading VIDEO: Renault keyless entry keeps you from freezing your nuts off

VIDEO: Renault keyless entry keeps you from freezing your nuts off originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 Mar 2007 11:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adcardcoldcommercialentryfreezeicekeykeylessremoterenaultsnowvideowinterThu, 15 Mar 2007 11:03:00 EST<![CDATA[As the ad world turns: Male activist group pesters Volvo to portray fathers better]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/02/as-the-ad-world-turns-male-activist-group-pesters-volvo-to-port/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/02/as-the-ad-world-turns-male-activist-group-pesters-volvo-to-port/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/02/as-the-ad-world-turns-male-activist-group-pesters-volvo-to-port/#commentsFiled under: Etc., Marketing/Advertising, Volvo

Poor Arnold Worldwide. They were mining advertising gold for Volkswagen in the late 1990s with clever spots and print ads. Apparently the relationship went cold, and VW moved on. There was much wailing and gnashing of teeth in Boston, but now, Arnold has found themselves in the crosshairs of father's advocacy groups as they vie for Volvo's ad money.

Arnold is in contention to win the $150 million account for Volvo's advertising, but they're drawing fire for past work that's denigrated fatherhood. Men's-issue advocate Glenn Sacks is leading the charge, along with the groups HusbandsandFathers.org and Fathers and Families. Sacks cites Arnold's recent work for clients such as Fidelity and Verizon as evidence the advertising agency is "anti-father."

For its part, Arnold has been dragged in far enough for CEO Fran Kelly to rebut Sacks's claims and point out that the client has the final say on any creative before a campaign leaves the concept stage. It must be a little bewildering. One day, you're sitting there in the Pru, doing your agency thing, and the next thing you know, they're outside with a cauldron and pitchforks. While Sacks has a point that portrayals of fathers on television is a caricature at best, most of what's on the tube is hyperbole. The efforts of these advocacy groups may be better directed at the brands and companies that are approving the campaigns that offend. With a little sensitivity training, the end customers may start making more considered decisions. We won't be holding our breath, but hey, it could happen.

UPDATE - Volvo has provided us with a statement regarding its current ad agency search:

"Volvo has four outstanding agencies vying for its advertising account, and it is our intention to select the agency that we think has the best understanding of our brand, the best creative and that can best communicate our brand and product attributes to the public. In the end, Volvo will be the ultimate decider on the advertising that reaches the airwaves or the printed page."

[Source: Automotive News - sub req'd]

As the ad world turns: Male activist group pesters Volvo to portray fathers better originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 02 Mar 2007 06:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adad agencyAdAgencyadvertisingagencyarnold worldwideArnoldWorldwidebostoncampaigncommercialeuro rscgEuroRscgvolvovolvo advertising agencyVolvoAdvertisingAgencyFri, 02 Mar 2007 06:57:00 EST