Cannes Lions
JOHANNES LEONARDO, New York / VOLKSWAGEN / 2024
Awards:
Overview
Entries
Credits
Background
Volkswagen wanted to introduce America to ID. Buzz, the electric reincarnation of its iconic microbus. We were tasked with supporting the vehicle’s public reveal in June 2023. The objective wasn’t to sell cars, but to set the tone, drive conversation, and fuel the hype that surrounded this vehicle.
Idea
Our idea was simple: the bus is back.
It’s back with a bright, colorful two-tone exterior — just like the original.
It’s back with an optimistic point of view — just like the original.
It’s back with a witty, playful voice — just like the original.
Execution
White on the top, with a bright pop of color on the bottom. The iconic two-tone exterior of the original Volkswagen bus was one of the consistent design elements brought forward in ID. Buzz, its electric reboot.
This formed the foundation of our campaign’s design system. The product was always placed to line up perfectly with the horizon line that split the layout precisely in the middle. Even when we used animation, the final frame always landed with that precision.
Whether they be static executions like “Missed the bus? Us too..”, or digital ones like “It’s back. Its front. Its side. Its back, again.” or “Glass half full.”, or even our more animated executions like “World meet color” or “Resurfaced” that pushed and pulled the design system in energetic movements, they all did one thing: introduced a much needed pop of optimism on American roads.
Outcome
The campaign fueled the hype around ID. Buzz in the US ahead of its arrival to dealerships.
- Highest single day of sign-ups to date
- ID. Buzz searches increased +784%
- ID. Buzz site visits increased +932%
- Social mentions were +150% above the brand's daily average
The campaign created a positive halo for the brand that lifted other models.
- Awareness of VW’s electric portfolio increased significantly quarter over quarter and year over year
- Consideration in purchasing any VW improves after seeing ID. Buzz, even among lapsed VW owners
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