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Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Jeremy Clarkson angers some by suggesting airlines should treat babies like luggage]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/jeremy-clarkson-angers-some-by-suggesting-airlines-should-treat/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/jeremy-clarkson-angers-some-by-suggesting-airlines-should-treat/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/jeremy-clarkson-angers-some-by-suggesting-airlines-should-treat/#commentsFiled under: Etc., Celebrities

Jeremy Clarkson driving homebuilt dragster-like thing

You might think that Jeremy Clarkson has run out of groups to offend, but the Top Gear frontman remains as unfiltered and unbowed as ever, this time calling for British Airways to deposit traveling young children in with the luggage under its planes. After a flight to Scotland, the irascible Brit quipped, "When will British Airways realise that babies belong in the hold?" via Twitter. The tweet prompted equal quantities of laughter, outrage and support from those who follow him on the social media service. Acknowledging the controversy, Clarkson would later follow up by noting, "Mine didn't fly till they were old enough to behave."

Predictably, British Airways has responded by reiterating that all are welcome in its airplane cabins, but Clarkson's musing has also triggered widespread support for the notion of child-free air travel - on Twitter and beyond. And as the Telegraph notes, at least one airline realizes that for some travelers, there is real appeal to the idea: Malaysia's Air X airlines recently introduced select routes with seating areas where occupants must be 12 years or older. Perhaps they've just found their new spokesman.

Jeremy Clarkson angers some by suggesting airlines should treat babies like luggage originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 May 2013 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>air travelair xairlinesbritish airwaysjeremy clarksontop geartwitterWed, 22 May 2013 19:15:00 EST

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20580107 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/jeremy-clarkson-driving-dragster-thing_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/jeremy-clarkson-driving-dragster-thing.jpg <![CDATA[Hot Wheels' Twitter-enabled vending machine coughs up free Camaro diecasts]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/27/hot-wheels-twitter-enabled-vending-machine-coughs-up-free-camar/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/27/hot-wheels-twitter-enabled-vending-machine-coughs-up-free-camar/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/27/hot-wheels-twitter-enabled-vending-machine-coughs-up-free-camar/#commentsFiled under: Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Chevrolet, Misc. Auto Shows, Toys/Games, Canada

There are still plenty of companies that haven't gotten the whole social media thing down pat yet, but Hot Wheels isn't one of them. During the recent Canadian International Auto Show in Toronto, Hot Wheels created a lot of buzz for itself by using a vending machine filled with Chevrolet Camaro models, but instead of money to get the cars, show attendees just had to use Twitter.

To get the free car, people were asked to send a tweet to Hot Wheels Canada saying what they liked about the new Hot Wheels Edition Camaro, and including the #ChevyCIAS hashtag. This seemed to be a popular marketing tool, too, as AdWeek reports that the @HotWheelsCanada account more than tripled in followers during the course of the 10-day show. Looking ahead, this could open up even more innovative marketing possibilities using social media.

Check out the video posted below to watch how it works, and while the auto show has ended and the free-car giveaway has too, we're almost certain that some of the 1,500 freebies will make their way onto eBay.

Continue reading Hot Wheels' Twitter-enabled vending machine coughs up free Camaro diecasts

Hot Wheels' Twitter-enabled vending machine coughs up free Camaro diecasts originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 Feb 2013 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>canadian international auto showchevrolethot wheelstwitterWed, 27 Feb 2013 19:29:00 EST

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20479656 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/chevrolet-hot-wheels_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/chevrolet-hot-wheels.jpg <![CDATA[Jeep Twitter account hacked, bad language, poor grammar and some hilarity ensue]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/19/jeep-twitter-account-hacked-bad-language-poor-grammar-and-some/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/19/jeep-twitter-account-hacked-bad-language-poor-grammar-and-some/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/19/jeep-twitter-account-hacked-bad-language-poor-grammar-and-some/#commentsFiled under: Jeep

Just a day after Burger King's Twitter account was compromised by "unauthorized users," Jeep's social media feed has been similarly hacked. Both instances of digital incursion share some similarities - the BK hackers changed the company's logo for McDonald's familiar golden arches, saying a sale had occurred, while the Jeep miscreants have replaced Jeep's branding with that of General Motors property Cadillac.

The resulting tweets from the damaged Jeep account have been a pretty brutal, to put it bluntly. Most of the content coming from the hacked account is unpublishable here, using language that is peppered with racial epithets, and poorly worded "shout outs."

In addition to the defamatory tweets themselves, the hackers have significantly altered the layout of the page. Jeep's header image now features a picture of the Cadillac ATS to go along with the Wreath and Crest, some language calling out that car as winning the 2013 North American Car of the Year award, and this gem: "The official Twitter handle for the Jeep(R) - Just Empty Every Pocket, Sold To Cadillac =[" Also, perhaps in an ode to yesterday's Burger King heist, the background image for the page now features a McDonald's-themed donk. The devil's in the details, we guess.

Stay tuned to @Jeep's feed, as the inevitable shut down, recapture, and public explanation/apology are sure to play out in short order. Don't forget to change your passwords, kids.

Quick update on this one, already. Gizmodo has seemingly traced a link between the Burger King and Jeep hacks; a DJ from New England that uses the name iThug. Untangle the tale further, here.

Jeep Twitter account hacked, bad language, poor grammar and some hilarity ensue originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 19 Feb 2013 14:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingburger kingcadillachackersjeepjeep twitter accounttwitterTue, 19 Feb 2013 14:27:00 EST

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20467739 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/jeep-twitter-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/jeep-twitter-628.jpg <![CDATA[How social media is changing the way car defects and complaints are discovered]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/28/how-social-media-is-changing-the-way-car-defects-and-complaints/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/28/how-social-media-is-changing-the-way-car-defects-and-complaints/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/28/how-social-media-is-changing-the-way-car-defects-and-complaints/#commentsFiled under: Etc.

Social media can allow direct and faster access to a person, a group or discussion of an issue, and that has led to wide ranging players in the automotive world figuring out how to use it in order to improve performance. Dealers encourage customers to use sites like Google+ and DealerRater.com for reviews, automakers like Hyundai and Chrysler have someone dedicated to watching Twitter for complaints, and federal agencies like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration survey forums and websites for hints about possible defects.

Said Hyundai Motor America's executive vice president of sales on using Twitter to speak to customers, "The function is the same: People have problems, and we take care of the problems." The company's interaction with Twitterers didn't exist a year ago, but things could progress to the point where Twitter forms part of the way that dealer satisfaction surveys are submitted by the automaker. There's work to do and knowledge to gain before that happens, but it's envisioned in the field of play.

Bodies like the NHTSA are said to "routinely search" the web "for information that might lead to an investigation." By going straight to the sources where car buyers are highlighting issues with their cars, the NHTSA has a line into early indicators of issues that might be defects, and it can begin to gather data or can supplement the data it already has. The other side of the equation: Law firms are taking note as well, with a university professor saying the increased and more public exposure of potential issues "could mean higher litigation."

How social media is changing the way car defects and complaints are discovered originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 28 Jan 2013 18:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerdealersfacebookhyundaiNational Highway Traffic Safety Administrationsocial mediatwitterMon, 28 Jan 2013 18:33:00 EST

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20436289 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/hyundai-twitter-page-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/hyundai-twitter-page-628.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota Super Bowl ad to star <i>Big Bang Theory</i> bombshell Kaley Cuoco]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/08/toyota-super-bowl-ad-to-star-big-bang-theory-bombshell-ka/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/08/toyota-super-bowl-ad-to-star-big-bang-theory-bombshell-ka/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/08/toyota-super-bowl-ad-to-star-big-bang-theory-bombshell-ka/#commentsFiled under: Marketing/Advertising, Toyota, Celebrities

Kaley Cuoco with small dog

Toyota has turned to actress Kaley Cuoco for a little help during this year's Super Bowl. The Big Bang Theory star will play a role front and center in the automaker's spot for the game, and Toyota fans have a chance to show up in the ad as well. Anyone can take a photo and upload it via Twitter or Instagram with the hashtag #wishgranted for a chance to have their image featured in the commercial on February 3. While Toyota isn't saying exactly what the pictures will be used for, we imagine the photos will need to be rated PG. Sorry, guys.

Toyota isn't saying much more about the ad or what its plot line will offer, at least for now. Expect to hear more details surface as we get closer to game day. In the interim, you can check out the brief press release below for more information, or check out Toyota's "Get In The Big Game" web page at the link below.

Continue reading Toyota Super Bowl ad to star Big Bang Theory bombshell Kaley Cuoco

Toyota Super Bowl ad to star Big Bang Theory bombshell Kaley Cuoco originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Jan 2013 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingbig bang theoryinstagramkaley cuocosuper bowlsuper bowl adsuperbowlthe big bang theorytoyotatoyota super bowl adtwitterwishgrantedTue, 08 Jan 2013 14:30:00 EST

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20421119 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/kaley-cuoco-and-her-little-dog-too-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/kaley-cuoco-and-her-little-dog-too-628.jpg <![CDATA[Chrysler gives employees day off to vote]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/06/chrysler-gives-employees-day-off-to-vote/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/06/chrysler-gives-employees-day-off-to-vote/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/06/chrysler-gives-employees-day-off-to-vote/#commentsFiled under: Government/Legal, Chrysler, UAW/Unions, SRT

SRT president and CEO, Ralph Gilles, is doing his best today to make sure workers at Chrysler are getting to their local polling stations and casting votes. The executive started off the morning by stating on his Twitter feed that, "Chrysler gave its entire work force the day off to Vote Today! Let's go! #America."

Gilles later did his best to clarify the day off for Chrysler workers, tweeting that the United Auto Workers has negotiated having voting day off for its employees for the last 15 years - not only at Chrysler, but for General Motors and Ford employees, too. The voting day holiday was then "logically extended to salaried workers," said Gilles.

While Gilles statements seem politically neutral on the surface, recent flare-ups between he and Donald Trump, as well as some finger-pointing on the part of Chrysler/Fiat boss Sergio Marchionne towards Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney, add a bit of heat to the matter. What's more, as UAW members have historically backed Democratic candidates, the move to encourage Chrysler workers to get to the polls could logically be construed as a tacit endorsement of President Barack Obama's bid to hold on to the White House.

In fact, the call to action by Gilles is probably unneeded as far as UAW members are concerned. Reports today indicate that the organization has gone so far as to bus its members (in Michigan at least) to polling places, to make the voting process that much easier.

Chrysler gives employees day off to vote originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Nov 2012 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerpresidential electionralph gillessrttweettwitteruawunited auto workersTue, 06 Nov 2012 15:31:00 EST

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20372308 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/ralph-gilles-tweet-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/ralph-gilles-tweet-628.jpg <![CDATA[Fiat CEO Marchionne outed as Challenger SRT8 driver]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/14/fiat-ceo-marchionne-outed-as-challenger-srt8-driver/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/14/fiat-ceo-marchionne-outed-as-challenger-srt8-driver/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/14/fiat-ceo-marchionne-outed-as-challenger-srt8-driver/#commentsFiled under: Performance, Dodge, Ferrari, Design/Style, Fiat

Sergio Marchionne's Dodge Challenger SRT8

Sergio Marchionne, CEO of Fiat, Ferrari owner, and (we assume) fabulously rich guy, has an amazing lineup of vehicles he can drive. From his company's lineup, he could be driving a new SRT Viper, or a Ferrari FF or probably even a Maserati Kubang. Well, maybe not the Kubang.

But SRT CEO Ralph Gilles, on his Twitter feed, just outed Marchionne as a weekend Challenger SRT8 driver. Black, of course. No indication on modifications, but given a shot at being CEO of Fiat for a day, we'd definitely order our Challenger with at least a 600-hp Viper V10 and put a check in the rear seat delete box. Then we'd head out to the local drag strip and embarrass some wannabe speed demons.

Not hard to figure out why we none of us have been granted CEO status of a major automaker, huh?

Fiat CEO Marchionne outed as Challenger SRT8 driver originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 Aug 2012 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 dodge challenger srt8challener srt8dodgeFerrariFerrari FFFiatfiat ceoFiat CEO Sergio MarchionneSergio MarchionneTwitterTue, 14 Aug 2012 09:15:00 EST

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20298352 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/challenger-srt8-marchionne_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/challenger-srt8-marchionne.jpg <![CDATA[Rising fuel prices got you down? Blame Twitter]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/07/rising-fuel-prices-got-you-down-blame-twitter/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/07/rising-fuel-prices-got-you-down-blame-twitter/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/07/rising-fuel-prices-got-you-down-blame-twitter/#commentsFiled under: Etc., Government/Legal, Technology, Middle East

The power of social media has revealed itself today in the form of fluctuation in fuel prices based on a false tweet.

According to The Wall Street Journal, a Twitter account claiming to be Russian Interior Minister Vladamir Kolokoltsv tweeted that Syrian president Bashar al-Assad had been injured or killed. That tweet which occurred at 9:59 AM EST, was followed by two more tweets alleging the confirmation of al-Assad's death.

In the hour following that tweet, light, sweet crude prices rose from $90.82 to $91.99, and the jump took place in between 10:15 and 10:45. According to the Reuters report, the Russian ministry denies firing off the tweets and denies any connection to the account.

Price Futures Group analyst Phil Flynn pointed out "a well-placed story can move the market, and that looks like what happened." Though Syria itself is not a major oil producer, it is feared that Iran would react to the news because of their connection to and support of Assad

In the wake of sanctions imposed due to their continued participation in a nuclear weapons program, Iran has threatened to close off the Straight of Hormuz, a major throughway for ships carrying crude oil to the rest of the world.

Because of the hypersensitivity of the international tensions in the Middle East, and those trading in oils who follow the area closely, the rumor of Assad's demised spread like wildfire. The combination of Mideast unrest, and the spread of information through texts and tweets means it's unlikely this is the last time something like this will happen.

Rising fuel prices got you down? Blame Twitter originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Aug 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bashar al-assadfuelfuel pricesgas pricesmiddle eastmiddle east conflictpeak oilprice futures grouptwittervladamir kolokoltsvTue, 07 Aug 2012 17:30:00 EST

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20295094 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/fueling-up-at-gulf-station_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/fueling-up-at-gulf-station.jpg <![CDATA[Honda reveals new cloud-based infotainment system [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/18/honda-reveals-new-cloud-based-infotainment-system-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/18/honda-reveals-new-cloud-based-infotainment-system-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/18/honda-reveals-new-cloud-based-infotainment-system-w-video/#commentsFiled under: Technology, Honda, Infotainment

HondaLink

Honda let the cat officially out of the bag today, revealing details about its new HondaLink infotainment system that will be featured in the new 2013 Accord. The new midsize sedan doesn't launch until the fall, but the Japanese automaker is clearly eager to start building momentum for its long-awaited new model by addressing one of the company's long-running deficiencies: connectivity.

HondaLink will feature Aha Radio, a cloud-based digital content service that uses the driver's smart phone data connection for streaming through the vehicle's audio system. The interface uses a radio station model, with users creating content presets. Besides music, news, podcasts and other traditional audio content, Aha will allow drivers to listen to Facebook and Twitter feeds.

While the video Honda released today plays more like a commercial than a tutorial, we're looking forward to getting our hands on the system. The big question is whether it can vault Honda to the front of the mainstream infotainment pack, or merely put them where Ford was three years ago.

Scroll down to watch the video and read the full press release.

Continue reading Honda reveals new cloud-based infotainment system [w/video]

Honda reveals new cloud-based infotainment system [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Jul 2012 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ahaaha radiodistracted drivingfacebookharmanhondahondalinkin car entertainmentinfotainmenttextingtwitterWed, 18 Jul 2012 17:45:00 EST

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20281103 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/hondalinkscreen-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/hondalinkscreen-628.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan courts social media to help with product planning]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/15/nissan-courts-social-media-to-help-with-product-planning/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/15/nissan-courts-social-media-to-help-with-product-planning/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/15/nissan-courts-social-media-to-help-with-product-planning/#commentsFiled under: Marketing/Advertising, Technology, Nissan

Nissan Facebook

Automotive News reports Nissan may turn to the company's social media followers to help plan future products. Erich Marx, director of interactive and social media marketing, thinks sites like Pintrest and Facebook could be used as specialized focus groups to help answer questions that the automaker's product planners and managers face.

Nissan already plans to ask its followers what sorts of vehicles and technologies they expect to see on the market in the next 10 years. Depending on how that goes, further and more specific queries could follow.

The report says Marx understands the online community isn't a place for throwing out confidential designs, but with over 1 million fans on Facebook and a similar number on Google+ and Twitter, he sees plenty of potential consulting power.

Nissan courts social media to help with product planning originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 15 Jul 2012 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>erich marxfacebookgoogle+nissanpintrestproduct planningsocial mediatechnologytwitterSun, 15 Jul 2012 10:02:00 EST

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20276646 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/nissan-facebook-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/nissan-facebook-628.jpg <![CDATA[Smart USA doesn't take crap from anyone]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/21/smart-usa-doesnt-take-crap-from-anyone/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/21/smart-usa-doesnt-take-crap-from-anyone/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/21/smart-usa-doesnt-take-crap-from-anyone/#commentsFiled under: Convertible, Coupe, Etc., Marketing/Advertising, Smart, Humor

Smart Twitter Response

The minds at Smart USA took to Twitter to make a point about the manufacturer's tridion safety cell recently. Clayton Hove, who runs a snarky blog about advertising, joked that he "Saw a bird had crapped on a Smart Car. Totaled it," leaving the door wide open for Smart to work up a response. And respond the automaker did.

Smart USA fired off a tweet of its own, complete with an infographic (click above to enlarge) depicting exactly how much bird excrement it would take to damage the vehicle's safety cell. According to Smart, the structure can withstand up to 9,000 pounds of pressure, which equates to around 4.5 million pigeon droppings.

Smart didn't stop at just doing the math. The company worked up a handy infographic to break down exactly how many turkey or emu droppings would do the same damage. Turns out those numbers are 360,000 and 45,000, respectively. Hilarious. Check out Smart Twitter account to see the original exchange.

Smart USA doesn't take crap from anyone originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Jun 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bird crapbird droppingspigeonsmartsmart bird crap tweetsmart fortwosmart tweettweettwitterThu, 21 Jun 2012 15:30:00 EST

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http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/21/smart-usa-doesnt-take-crap-from-anyone/20263338/article-detail.xml

20263338 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/smart-twitter-response-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/smart-twitter-response-628.jpg <![CDATA[Ford and GM in Twitterfight over Facebook advertising?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/17/ford-and-gm-in-twitterfight-over-facebook-advertising/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/17/ford-and-gm-in-twitterfight-over-facebook-advertising/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/17/ford-and-gm-in-twitterfight-over-facebook-advertising/#commentsFiled under: Marketing/Advertising, Ford, GM

Ford's Twitter jab at GM's Facebook ad pullout

Frenemies Ford and General Motors have taken to cyberspace for a little verbal sparing, trading snarky shots this week over which company is more likeable on Facebook.

GM set itself up Tuesday after news broke that the carmaker decided not to spend $10 million on Facebook advertising the same week the social media juggernaut prepares for its initial public offering expected to raise $100 billion dollars.

Ford used the opportunity to tweak its crosstown rival, tweeting: "It's all about the execution. Our Facebook ads are effective when strategically combined with engaging content & innovation."

GM couldn't leave that alone, going onto its Facebook page, "Just wanted to let our millions of Facebook fans know, we're still here, and we 'like' you back!"

Both carmakers will continue to use Facebook, where both have millions of followers of their brands and vehicles. And, really, they are both right.

Ford has done an extremely good job incorporating Facebook into its marketing strategy. When it came time to launch the new Ford Explorer, it did it through Facebook reaching millions of people.

GM has determined its money will be better spent in other areas. A recent Associated Press-CNBC poll showing more than half of all Facebook users never click on sponsored ads and only 12 percent said they felt comfortable to buy anything over Facebook. Google, The Wall Street Journal points out, is much more effective.

Ford and GM in Twitterfight over Facebook advertising? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 May 2012 10:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>facebookfacebook advertisingfacebook ipofordford motor companygeneral motorsgmsocial mediatweettwittertwitter fighttwitterfightThu, 17 May 2012 10:35:00 EST

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20239690 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/ford-tweet-gm-facebook_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/ford-tweet-gm-facebook.jpg <![CDATA[Chicago cops using social networking tools against food trucks that use them]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/16/chicago-cops-using-social-networking-tools-against-food-trucks-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/16/chicago-cops-using-social-networking-tools-against-food-trucks-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/16/chicago-cops-using-social-networking-tools-against-food-trucks-t/#commentsFiled under: Minivan/Van, Truck, Etc., Government/Legal, Work

Gaztro-Wagon food truck gets a visit from Chicago PD

The Chicago Sun Times reports food truck operators in Chicago have met with a police crackdown. Some operators report officers lying in wait for the mobile food services to show up, threatening a variety of citations before the trucks even open their doors. How is that possible? The miracle of the Internet. Operators routinely announce their location or route for the day on social networking tools like Twitter or Facebook. While the Chicago Police Department hasn't said whether or not officers are mining the web for locations, it seems likely.

Food trucks have emerged as a popular way to grab a quick lunch bite in Chicago over the past year, though owners face charges from parking in loading zones to operating too close to an existing restaurant. A group of operators recently met with city officials in an attempt to establish new ordinances governing the trucks' legal operation. During the meeting, the city asked for a list of the most popular food truck spots, and it wasn't long before the police were waiting for them when business time rolled around.

Chicago cops using social networking tools against food trucks that use them originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Apr 2012 11:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chicagochicago food truckchicago pdchicago police departmentcpdfacebookfood truckfood truckspolicetwitterMon, 16 Apr 2012 11:04:00 EST

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20216031 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/chicago-gaztro-wagon_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/chicago-gaztro-wagon.jpg <![CDATA[Demonstrations in Bahrain take fatal turn, spur F1 protests *UPDATE]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/02/f1-protests-in-bahrain-take-fatal-turn/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/02/f1-protests-in-bahrain-take-fatal-turn/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/02/f1-protests-in-bahrain-take-fatal-turn/#commentsFiled under: Motorsports, Safety, Middle East

Bahrain F1 protests turn violent

Protesters in Bahrain continue to push for democratic reforms in the country, and police have stepped up a brutal crackdown ahead of the upcoming Formula One Bahrain Grand Prix. Last year, unrest forced F1 to cancel the race, but Bernie Ecclestone, president and CEO of the series, has said that won't happen in 2012. Protestors have turned their ire against F1 organizers, saying the race belittles the strife and sacrifices of those working toward democracy. In an attempt to quell the demonstrations, plainclothes police have reportedly responded with violence. Crowds have faced tear gas and rubber bullets as well as live rounds. At least one protestor died in the fray.

The movement has rallied around the death. Twitter has played host to a campaign to cancel the race with the hashtags #BloodyF1 and #NoF1 gaining popularity. One video commentator said, "Do not tarnish the reputation of the respected auto sport with the blood of Bahrain victims."

Bahrain is currently controlled by the Sunni Al-Khalifa dynasty.

*UPDATE: As a point of clarification, Ahmed Ismael Abulsamed, the demonstrator who was shot and died of his injuries, was originally protesting for democratic reform, not against the F1 race.

Demonstrations in Bahrain take fatal turn, spur F1 protests *UPDATE originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 02 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bahrainbahrain f1bahrain gpbahrain grand prixbahrain protestsbernie ecclestoneecclestonef1formula onesunni al-khalifatwitterMon, 02 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST

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20206755 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/bahrain-gp-protests_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/bahrain-gp-protests.jpg <![CDATA[Audi's #WantAnR8 Twitter ad campaign returns]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/21/audis-wantanr8-twitter-ad-campaign-returns/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/21/audis-wantanr8-twitter-ad-campaign-returns/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/21/audis-wantanr8-twitter-ad-campaign-returns/#commentsFiled under: Coupe, Performance, Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Audi

Audi R8 Commercial

Audi has resurrected its Twitter campaign to put lucky fans behind the wheel of an R8 for a day. The program generated a massive amount of attention last year, spurring the company to bring it back for Round Two. It all got started when Joanne McCoy tweeted using the hashtag #WantAnR8 in early 2011. Audi showed up at her Washington, D.C. home with a brand-new mid-engined sports car for the day, and the company went on to share the love. So far, the hashtag has been used over 75,000 times since its inception, but that number is expected to skyrocket.

The new contest is available for entry until October 29. For 2012, Audi is splitting the campaign into four entry periods, with two winners from each period. That means there will be a total of eight winners this go around. Those who take the top prize will have the choice of either driving the R8 on a track at the company's Audi Sportscar Experience in Sonoma, CA or have the car delivered to their house. Tough call.

Audi has released a new commercial to announce the return of the campaign. Click past the jump for a look see.

Continue reading Audi's #WantAnR8 Twitter ad campaign returns

Audi's #WantAnR8 Twitter ad campaign returns originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 audi r8audiaudi r8commercialr8twittervideoviral marketingwantanr8Wed, 21 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST

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20197290 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/audi-r8-commercial-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/audi-r8-commercial-628.jpg <![CDATA[Mazda under fire for "crass commercialization" of Dr. Seuss' Lorax [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/29/mazda-under-fire-for-crass-commercialization-of-dr-seuss-lor/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/29/mazda-under-fire-for-crass-commercialization-of-dr-seuss-lor/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/29/mazda-under-fire-for-crass-commercialization-of-dr-seuss-lor/#commentsFiled under: Budget, Etc., Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Crossover, Mazda

Mazda CX-5 Lorax ad

mazda #savelorax

Over on Twitter, we recently had a discussion over whether or not it was fair for the cinematic version of Dr. Seuss' Lorax to be out shilling for the Mazda CX-5. Turns out, we're not the only ones who question the logic here - the Lorax speaks for the trees, not Skyactiv CUVs, right? Seemingly of like minds, an organization called Rethinking The Automobile is circulating a petition to "Protect The Lorax" by pulling the "offensive" ads.

Rethinking the Automobile is a project of OpenPlans and their petition reads, in part:

in these advertisements Mazda and Universal claim that a new automobile is "Certified Truffula Tree Friendly" and imply an endorsement of their product by the cherished title character of "The Lorax." By airing these advertisements, Mazda and Universal have shamelessly turned a character who has inspired millions of children to care about their environment into a car salesman. Cars--even ones that pollute a little less--are neither kid-friendly nor good for the environment.

This movie Lorax's message, Rethinking The Automobile says, runs counter to "the spirit and message of Dr. Seuss' acclaimed book" and is nothing more than "crass commercialization."

The whole thing is blowing up on Twitter, too, thanks to the #savelorax hashtag and a creature for speaks for the petition, the Zozo. The Zozo is also into "smart transportation solutions including walking, biking, and transit so that kids can grow up in a world with safe, healthy, livable, walkable communities. Zozo works with kids to fix the harm that automobile traffic does to our world."

It isn't immediately clear how many people Rethinking The Automobile represents - a check of its website reveals that the organization was started by a self-described serial entrepreneur, Mark Gorton, who is an advocate for "livable streets."

One thing is clear, however - the CX-5 might be one of the most fuel-efficient crossovers on the market and it may be winning friends among reviewers, but clearly not everyone is pleased... at least with Mazda's marketing efforts. Click past the jump to watch the commercial in question.

Continue reading Mazda under fire for "crass commercialization" of Dr. Seuss' Lorax [w/video]

Mazda under fire for "crass commercialization" of Dr. Seuss' Lorax [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 29 Feb 2012 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cx-5doctor seussdr seussdr. seussloraxmazdamazda skyactivpetitionprotect the loraxseussskyactivtheodore geiseltwitteruniversalvideozozoWed, 29 Feb 2012 12:59:00 EST

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20182109 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/mazdathelorax_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/mazdathelorax.jpg <![CDATA[Audi giving tweeting fans R8 for a day... will you be next? [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/29/audi-giving-tweeting-fans-r8-for-a-day-will-you-be-next-w-v/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/29/audi-giving-tweeting-fans-r8-for-a-day-will-you-be-next-w-v/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/29/audi-giving-tweeting-fans-r8-for-a-day-will-you-be-next-w-v/#commentsFiled under: Etc., Audi

2010 audi r8

Spending time with any iteration of the Audi R8 is a glorious occasion. Your life becomes brighter, and everyone you pass on the street feels a bit better about their day for just having seen one. Audi wants you to experience this for yourself, and you're going to need to flex your Twitter muscles to make it happen.

Using the hashtag #WantAnR8, Audi wants you to explain all of the reasons why you would, um, want an R8. Sounds silly, but it paid off nicely for Audi R8 fan Joanne McCoy. She spoke of her love of the sultry German sports car, and Audi promptly loaned her one for the weekend.

Audi plans to hand over the keys to a few more fans, and will also run the #WantAnR8 program during the upcoming Petit Le Mans race. Attendees at the racing event could tool around for a few hours in an R8 of their "own".

Click past the jump to watch Joanne spend some time with her favorite sports car.

Continue reading Audi giving tweeting fans R8 for a day... will you be next? [w/video]

Audi giving tweeting fans R8 for a day... will you be next? [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 29 Sep 2011 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi r8r8twittervideowantanr8Thu, 29 Sep 2011 09:01:00 EST

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http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/29/audi-giving-tweeting-fans-r8-for-a-day-will-you-be-next-w-v/20068573/article-detail.xml

20068573 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/lead1_audir8v10review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/lead1_audir8v10review.jpg <![CDATA[How Nissan outmaneuvered Toyota's Camry launch for Twitter supremacy]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/02/how-nissan-outmaneuvered-toyotas-camry-launch-for-twitter-supre/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/02/how-nissan-outmaneuvered-toyotas-camry-launch-for-twitter-supre/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/02/how-nissan-outmaneuvered-toyotas-camry-launch-for-twitter-supre/#commentsFiled under: Budget, Sedan, Etc., Marketing/Advertising, Toyota

2012 Toyota Camry

Automotive News is reporting that Nissan recently scored a hit against Toyota - at least in terms of social media marketing for the new 2012 Camry. When Nissan received word that Toyota was planning to pull back the sheet on the Camry last week, it reportedly set about snatching up promoted tweets featuring the words "Camry," "Toyota Camry," and "mid-sized car." A promoted tweet directs those searching for the terms toward a specific tweet instead of all tweets featuring the term for a 24-hour period. In this case, those looking for information on the Camry were pointed toward product news from Nissan.

At this point, it's unclear whether Nissan intentionally set out to scuttle Toyota's Twitter effort or if the two companies were merely giving each other some good-natured harassment. Either way, we can imagine Toyota will be a little more careful about protecting its search terms in the near future.

How Nissan outmaneuvered Toyota's Camry launch for Twitter supremacy originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 02 Sep 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 camry2012 toyota camrycamrynissanpromoted tweetssocial mediatoyotatoyota camrytwitterFri, 02 Sep 2011 11:30:00 EST

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20033408 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/2012-toyota-camry-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/2012-toyota-camry-630.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota takes to Twitter to tease 2012 Camry... again]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/10/toyota-takes-to-twitter-to-tease-2012-camry-again/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/10/toyota-takes-to-twitter-to-tease-2012-camry-again/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/10/toyota-takes-to-twitter-to-tease-2012-camry-again/#commentsFiled under: Sedan, Toyota

2012 toyota camry teaser image

Toyota has released a new image of the 2012 Camry, which adds to the growing number of teaser images highlighting the updated sedan. We've seen a video of Akio Toyoda talking up his latest product, along with a shot of the headlight. After that came a still image of the headlight, foglight and a portion of the grille and lower fascia. Now, we get to eyeball the backside with a photograph showing the taillamp and Camry badge courtesy of a new image posted to Twitter.

One of these days, we'll get to see the whole thing... again.

Toyota takes to Twitter to tease 2012 Camry... again originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Aug 2011 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 toyota camrycamrycamry teasertoyotatoyota camrytoyota teasertwitterWed, 10 Aug 2011 17:58:00 EST

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http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/10/toyota-takes-to-twitter-to-tease-2012-camry-again/20014747/article-detail.xml

20014747 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/toyota-camry-teaser-lead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/toyota-camry-teaser-lead.jpg <![CDATA[Saudi woman's "right to drive" protest video circulates online despite gov't. efforts]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/24/saudi-womans-right-to-drive-protest-video-circulates-online-d/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/24/saudi-womans-right-to-drive-protest-video-circulates-online-d/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/24/saudi-womans-right-to-drive-protest-video-circulates-online-d/#commentsFiled under: Government/Legal, Videos, Middle East

Women's right to drive bumper sticker in Saudi Arabia

Manal al-Sharif's campaign for women's right to drive - Click above to watch video after the jump

The Arab Spring has brought a wave of change and reform to the Middle East, but that tide has seemingly stopped at Saudi Arabia. According to The New York Times, the Saudi government has effectively squelched a movement championed by Manal al-Sharif. The woman wasn't campaigning for the overthrow of the government or the death of the country's leaders. Instead, she was simply demonstrating for women's right to drive in her country. Sharif posted videos of herself driving on YouTube and started Facebook and Twitter accounts that prompted other Saudi women to do the same.

That's when the Saudi government stepped in. Sharif was arrested for her transgressions and her videos were removed from YouTube. Later, a Facebook page she had set up to instruct other women about how to get involved was deleted and a duplicate of her Twitter account began posting messages indicating that she had stopped her efforts.

But this is the internet, and nothing is gone forever. Copies of Sharif's original message have reappeared on YouTube and an Al Jazeera report on her campaign is still available. You can check out the full report at The New York Times and watch the videos after the break.

Continue reading Saudi woman's "right to drive" protest video circulates online despite gov't. efforts

Saudi woman's "right to drive" protest video circulates online despite gov't. efforts originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 May 2011 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arab springfacebookmanal al-sharifright to drivesaudi arabiasaudi arabia drivingtwitterwoman driverwomens right to drivewomens rightsTue, 24 May 2011 19:57:00 EST

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