Well, Greenpeace have done it again. Having successfully targeted Apple back in 2007 – forcing a rare about turn by Mr Jobs – they’re now gunning for VW with this well crafted Star Wars spoof. VW are being targeted for having the worst emissions record amongst Europe’s major motor manufacturers.
Where Greenpeace excel in these campaigns is the wit and craftsmanship that go into the content – note perfect to go viral in the social media age. VW have a real problem on their hands here – no matter what their plans for future vehicles are, the evidence speaks for itself. They now have three options – put on the tin hat and hope that it goes away, come out fighting or defuse the situation by acknowledging the problem and pledging to change their ways. Jobs tried the second one, but ended up taking the third.
I would strongly advise that anyone in this situation takes the “it’s a fair cop” option first – turn a problem into a driver for improvement. Check out what Lexus managed after being criticised by the Advertising Standards Agency.