Most car makers have come to conclusion the best way to promote green, electric cars is by taking advantage of the popularity of gas-guzzling race cars! These two type of cars are a world apart, but marketing men somehow find a way to connect them. Like this new gig for Ford Focus Electric, which is set for pacing NASCAR Sprint Cup Richmond 400 on April 28. A little hatchback leading the way ahead of NASCAR monsters. Weird world we live in.
It’s not the first time Ford comes up with such plans. They were also the first car maker to use a hybrid to start a NASCAR event when the Fusion Hybrid served as pace car for the Ford 400 at Homestead-Miami Speedway in 2008.
The logic behind this campaign is a Ford research that says Approximately 35 percent of new car intenders are motorsports fans and 78 percent of them support NASCAR. Additionally, Ford race fans are 67 percent more likely to consider Ford products than general market consumers. They probably are, but an electric hatchback?
The pace car will be unveiled at Virginia State Capitol in Richmond three days before the race.
“Ford research shows the majority of Americans would consider buying an electrified vehicle but do not yet understand the different technologies,” said Mark Fields, president of The Americas. “Highlighting the Focus Electric as a pace car is a fun way to educate consumers about the kinds of benefits our electrified vehicles deliver and show people our commitment to provide Ford customers the power of choice for leading fuel economy in the vehicle that best meets their needs – from EcoBoost®-powered gasoline vehicles and hybrids to plug-in hybrids and full electrics.”
