Volkswagen strengthens digital presence; launches Planet Volkswagen

The digital property will officially go live on October 17, 2011.

European car maker Volkswagen, a brand known for its innovative marketing strategies and out-of-the-box communication efforts, has announced the launch of its latest digital initiative.

Called Planet Volkswagen, this is a platform laden with product information, and brand information and services, and is an offering targeted at car enthusiasts of all age groups. It is a platform where the TG (target group) can experience the myriad ideas, philosophies and values that Band Volkswagen brings to India.

This digital property
www.planetvolkswagen.co.in
, is all set for an official launch that will take place on October 17, 2011.

Commenting on the launch of Planet Volkswagen, Lutz Kothe, head marketing and public relations, Volkswagen Passenger Cars, Volkswagen Group Sales India, says, "With a rich heritage and a brand that has given some of the most loved cars in the world, the initiative is our effort to present the world of Volkswagen to all those who love celebrating cars."

This is the brand's biggest digital initiative, so far. Planet Volkswagen will showcase the world of Volkswagen in a three dimensional digital space, and will also allow the user to explore information on automobiles, exciting drives, games, and contests.

Users will be able to build their own community using social media channels such as Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. This would enable Volkswagen to create brand evangelists and generate positive WOM (word-of-mouth) for its brands.

Highlights of the site include five current digital properties, namely, Think Blue -- a platform that encourages eco-friendly behaviour, on which users can calculate their carbon footprint, estimate their impact on the environment, and pledge to 'Think Blue' by getting in touch with like-minded consumers via blogs, etc., Text Drive -- an online 'social race', where users can virtually 'drive through' their social networks, Volkswagen Play -- an online game-and-puzzle offering, where users can select the Volkswagen car of their choice and compete with fellow users by participating in online games, Volkswagen Corporate -- a site where one can learn about Volkswagen's cars and heritage, and Volkswagen Junior -- an offering dedicated to children, comprising fun facts and road rules.

Future digital properties on Planet Volkswagen include offerings titled Dream Destinations, Virtual Factory Tour, and Design Democracy.

Volkswagen currently sells its broad model range from the Fox to the Phaeton, in more than 150 countries worldwide. In India, Volkswagen offers the Phaeton, Passat, Jetta, the New Beetle, the SUV Touareg, the Polo, and the Vento.