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A collection of curated stories from client industries, CX and global trends that grab our attention.
Immersive Advertising & Distribution
Digital advertising is nothing new, but two new aspects of the craft are how consumers digest these mediums and how aggressive automakers across the world are distributing their message: Our cars are a true experience. Here's how several global auto players are creating more direct connections with a wealth of consumers through exciting adverts and today's cutting-edge tech..
- Toyota on Twitch, Honda on Insta: More auto manufacturers are embracing social media platforms like Twitch and Instagram to reach a younger clientele. In fact, Honda recently unveiled its 11th generation Civic model on Twitch. Does this mean the plug will be pulled from traditional television advertising?
- Hyundai, BD & BTS: A dynamic combo: While Hyundai acquired Boston Dynamics back in December 2020, they formally celebrated their partnership this month with this video featuring brand ambassadors and worldwide pop legends BTS with Spot, Boston Dynamics' robotic dog. This isn't just for show: Hyundai is speculated to make giant leaps forward in autonomous and semi-self-driving spaces with this acquisition.
- It's hip to be (Times) Square: Kia Corporation just held one of its most immersive auto launches New York City's most iconic landmark. They used the designer program disguise to pre-visualize an immersive video featuring its new EV6 crossover model, spanning six city blocks around Times Square. Here's more on how Kia's “Charge the City” slogan did exactly that.
- The kids are all right...without showrooms: For years analysts assumed Millennials and Gen Z weren't interested in owning a car, but the convenience of online auto purchasing has proven otherwise, claiming a growing chunk of total new and used car sales in America. Carvana, Shift and Vroom have thrown the gauntlet for seamless online service -- how will major automakers react?
The Future of EV Design
With new function comes new form. Car fans fondly remember specific makes and models from yesteryear based on design alone, and if EVs are to have the same cultural impact, they'll need cutting-edge designs. Here's what some automakers are doing to see beyond the looking glass.
- GM China's studio expands: General Motors is serious about expanding on their electronic vehicles sales success in the Chinese market. So serious, in fact, they've doubled the size of their EV design studio in China and increased their staff. Will this mean a sleeker, more cutting-edge electric vehicle when they hit the mainstream in the US?
- Back to class for Lincoln and Hyundai: Students of Southern California's ArtCenter College of Design and the Rhode Island School of Design have found some major patrons in Ford Motor Company and Hyundai, respectively. How will these students interpret the companies' ethos of "Quiet Flight" and "Adaptive Ecologies" in tomorrow's vehicle designs?
- Stellantis Design, at your service: In addition to the 14 auto brands offered under the Stellantis umbrella, the European automaker is opening its design studio to outside companies for hire. Read about the major players involved and how this may be another sign of auto design collaboration between Europe's major auto players.
For further information on how we got to where we are, I encourage you to check out our previous ICYMI blog posts throughout 2021.
