#GoPriusGo. The striking all-new 2016 Toyota Prius stole America鈥檚 heart in an entertaining, light-hearted 90-second commercial that aired during the first half of Super Bowl 50.
Nearly two decades after introducing the American public to the everyday benefits of hybrid technology, and selling more than two million of the iconic vehicles, the fourth-generation model unveils radical styling and an advanced interior not seen before in a Prius. What鈥檚 more, the new Prius boasts advanced technology throughout, including a suite of safety features. Each of these innovations complements a new platform that features a double-wishbone rear suspension and a lower center of gravity than previous generations for dramatically-improved handling.
In an amusing storyline showcasing four loveable rebels, adoringly coined 鈥淭he Prius 4鈥, Toyota鈥檚 Big Game ad, 鈥淭he Longest Chase,鈥 puts the Prius into a thrilling, action-packed pursuit. The spot, meant to serve more as a Hollywood caper movie than a commercial, follows the comedic adventure, as the public rallies together to cheer on the group鈥檚 exciting rendezvous across the country in the dramatically-redesigned Prius. The hybrid leader鈥檚 in-game ad simultaneously boasts about the vehicle鈥檚 notable fuel economy while touting the car鈥檚 advanced platform design.
Developed by Toyota鈥檚 agency of record, Saatchi & Saatchi Los Angeles, the commercial, as well as the post-game ads that continue the story, were shot under the direction of esteemed film director, Lance Acord.
鈥淲e worked with Lance to create a film that could be edited into consumable pieces of episodic content,鈥 said Jason Schragger, Chief Creative Officer, Saatchi & Saatchi LA. 鈥淚t was very important for us to create more than a series of advertisements. We wanted to author a piece of branded entertainment with a story that would extend long beyond the conversation about the big game.鈥
Toyota also engaged viewers socially at the end of their official in-game ad with a real-time activation. Viewers were encouraged to tweet with the designated 鈥#GoPriusGo鈥 hashtag for a chance to have their tweets featured in 鈥淧henomenon鈥 鈥 one of Toyota鈥檚 post-game spots, which depicts the protagonists captivating the public as they experience the journey of a lifetime.
Further elevating hype in the social media sphere, Toyota 鈥 with the help of Hispanic agency partner, Conill 鈥 partnered with social famous celebrities reacting to incredible plays, including the new Prius pursuit. Actor and model Kellan Lutz along with actress and Nickelodeon star, Daniella Monet, joined social rock stars @MattJCutshall, @BarronBoedecker and @BryantEslava to share real-time creative content featuring playful banter around Prius and Game Day action. Mexican-American singer Becky G and 11-time NBA All Star, Chris Bosh along with wife Adrienne Bosh, added to the groundswell of Super Bowl chatter with social content tagged #GoPriusGo.
鈥淪ocial media helps us tell the Prius story in an instantaneous way, all while enhancing the multi-screen experience for consumers,鈥 said Lisa Materazzo, Corporate Manager, Media Strategy & Digital Engagement, Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. 鈥淭he next-generation Prius driver lives each moment to the fullest 鈥 and what bigger adventure to embark on, than to be featured on the biggest stage in sports.鈥