Toyota sells Scion for US$ 1 in Second Life

Let’s talk about Linden Lab’s Second Life. And no, we’re not going to talk about tweaks on the game’s Terms of Service or even the IRS‘s plans to tax online game loots. You all know what happens when those things are discussed – headaches, heartaches, whatnots. The day just started for us here and a lot has happened already.

Anyway, did you know that you can purchase a Toyota Scion xD for only one US dollar, albeit virtually? The car manufacturer recently launched the car for the above mentioned price which translates to 300 Linden dollars. If you are an SL resident, all you have to do is go to Scion City and and log into one of the various kiosks located there.

Despite the new marketing strategy, Scion’s Interactive Marketing Manager Adrian Si mentioned that this isn’t a direct money-making venture for the company. He explained that Toyota is just keeping pace with the changing times:

We developed Scion City to connect with the trendsetters. That’s our target demographic – people who do things first. Trendsetters are instrumental in promoting brands. We don’t want to necessarily sell them Scions. We want them to get to know our brand, and hopefully consider something in the Toyota family because they like who we are.

Furthermore, the virtual Scions can be customized using real-world accessories. Take for example the car’s audio system. SL residents can plug in MP3 CDs as well as their iPod for their listening pleasure. Likewise, an optional feature allows downloading of images and video clips.

Let’s talk about Linden Lab’s Second Life. And no, we’re not going to talk about tweaks on the game’s Terms of Service or even the IRS‘s plans to tax online game loots. You all know what happens when those things are discussed – headaches, heartaches, whatnots. The day just started for us here and a lot has happened already.

Anyway, did you know that you can purchase a Toyota Scion xD for only one US dollar, albeit virtually? The car manufacturer recently launched the car for the above mentioned price which translates to 300 Linden dollars. If you are an SL resident, all you have to do is go to Scion City and and log into one of the various kiosks located there.

Despite the new marketing strategy, Scion’s Interactive Marketing Manager Adrian Si mentioned that this isn’t a direct money-making venture for the company. He explained that Toyota is just keeping pace with the changing times:

We developed Scion City to connect with the trendsetters. That’s our target demographic – people who do things first. Trendsetters are instrumental in promoting brands. We don’t want to necessarily sell them Scions. We want them to get to know our brand, and hopefully consider something in the Toyota family because they like who we are.

Furthermore, the virtual Scions can be customized using real-world accessories. Take for example the car’s audio system. SL residents can plug in MP3 CDs as well as their iPod for their listening pleasure. Likewise, an optional feature allows downloading of images and video clips.