Iconic Car Commercials That Changed Automotive Marketing Forever
If you think about iconic cars, chances are that their marketing campaigns have left a lasting impression on you. From catchy jingles to stunning visuals, car commercials have always been a crucial part of the automotive industry. But there are some commercials that have not only set records but have also changed the game for automotive marketing forever. In this article, we take a trip down memory lane as we explore the most iconic car commercials that have made a lasting impact on the world of marketing.
The Volkswagen Beetle: Think Small
In the 1960s, American car culture was dominated by big, powerful, and expensive vehicles. German automaker Volkswagen saw this as an opportunity to appeal to a market that was craving something different. Enter the iconic “Think Small” campaign for the Volkswagen Beetle. Through minimalistic and humorous ads, the campaign challenged the traditional notions of car advertising and successfully positioned the Beetle as a unique and affordable alternative to the gas-guzzling American cars. It was a daring move that changed the landscape of automotive marketing forever.
The Old Spice: The Man Your Man Could Smell Like
While car commercials usually focus on the product and its features, Old Spice’s ad campaign for their body wash took a different approach. The “The Man Your Man Could Smell Like” campaign not only showcased the product but also reinvented the brand’s image by creating a charismatic, debonair, and humorous character. The commercial went viral and became one of the most talked-about ads, setting a new benchmark for creative and engaging advertising in the automotive industry.
Audi: The Return of Quattro
In 2005, Audi introduced their iconic Quattro all-wheel drive system. To promote this feature, they launched a groundbreaking commercial called “The Return of Quattro.” The ad, which was shot on a snow-covered mountain, showcased the Quattro technology in action, making it a must-have feature for any car enthusiast. What’s unique about this commercial is that it was entirely shot in one take, with no special effects and only real-time stunts. The ad not only captured the hearts of car lovers but also set the bar high for ad campaigns that showcase a car’s advanced technology.
BMW Films: The Hire
Unconventional, captivating, and cinematic – BMW’s “The Hire” series of short films redefined what a car commercial could be. In partnership with top Hollywood directors, BMW produced eight short films that featured their cars in intense and thrilling stories. The films, which were released exclusively on the internet, won several awards and garnered millions of views, making it one of the most successful online marketing campaigns of all time. BMW successfully blurred the lines between advertising and entertainment and created a new avenue for automotive marketing.
Ford Mustang: Countdown
The launch of Ford Mustang in 1964 was a turning point in the automotive industry, and the company knew they had to make a big impact with their marketing campaign. Enter the legendary “Countdown” commercial, which featured the car racing against a fighter jet in a mock dogfight. The ad astounded viewers and showcased the Mustang as a powerful and exciting car that could take on any challenge. The commercial remains one of the most iconic and memorable ads in the history of automotive marketing.
In Conclusion
Car commercials have come a long way from simply showcasing the features of a vehicle. They have become a platform for creativity, innovation, and storytelling. The iconic car commercials mentioned in this article not only left a lasting impression on viewers but also set new standards for automotive marketing. They showed us that sometimes, thinking outside the box and taking a chance can change the game forever.
