Surely you've heard of the Ford Fiesta movement by now? It's a promotional program for the upcoming Fiesta subcompact that was designed to make use of all that social networking stuff that we all love so much.
Ford got off to a good start by giving away a bunch of free cars for a year. Then it asked the recipients, or "agents," to tell the world all about their cool new car. Simple enough eh?
According to Ford, the program has been a huge success, naturally. Over 50,000 people have raised their hands, presumably to get more info. The web is buzzing, too, of course, with over 3 million impressions on Twitter.
"We didn't break the bank. We didn't use traditional media. We tried something different, and it is working" said Connie Fontaine, Ford Brand and Content Alliances manager. "We're delighted with how Fiesta is gaining traction with consumers. It's a whole new way of introducing a car to market."
Clearly Ford thinks this is a great way to get the word out on new cars, but do you agree? Have you seen a Fiesta or one of Ford's agents? Did they convince you to take a look at the upcoming hatchback?
Oh, and by the way, one of the so-called agents said today that the U.S. spec Fiesta will finally debut at the L.A. Auto Show in November.
greenpony says:
10:00 AM, 10/ 6/09
To answer your questions: yes, things are often not as simple as they seem, not really, no, no.
bauerjw says:
10:14 AM, 10/ 6/09
A few weeks ago I saw two different Fiestas within 30 minutes in Iowa City, IA.
mrryte says:
12:02 PM, 10/ 6/09
"According to Ford, the program has been a huge success, naturally. Over 50,000 people have raised their hands, presumably to get more info. The web is buzzing, too, of course, with over 3 million impressions on Twitter."
Just be aware: Interest and attention to a product does not always translate into sales.
DCuerpoJr says:
03:21 PM, 10/ 6/09
I like the idea of using new/social media for marketing purposes. That's pretty much how I make my living as a web developer.
I've been to a few websites and blogs created by Ford Fiesta "agents" and they seem to generate a sizable audience (click throughs).
However, what made me interested in the Fiesta was watching Jeremy Clarkson's Ultimate Review of the Fiesta on Top Gear. Absolutely hilarious! and it's a cool, practical car.
dougtheeng says:
06:22 AM, 10/ 7/09
"Just be aware: Interest and attention to a product does not always translate into sales."
Snakes on a Plane - case and point.