Source:

http://worldnews.nbcnews.com/_news/2013/04/25/17913878-car-maker-hyundai-apologizes-for-commercial-showing-attempted-suicide

The source I chose surrounding this topic was one that revolved around a controversial advertisment that Hyundai created.

The advertisment was of an individual sitting, locked in a Hyundai,in a garage wishing to commit suicide by inhaling the fumes from the cars. Alas he could not achieve his goal, as the car does not release gaseous fumes, just 100% water emissions.

Presumably the main message or point of the advertisement was to present to people that the car is environmentally friendly, therefore influencing people who want to reduce pollution, and those who care about the enviornment to go and purchase such a car.

The video went viral, and Hyundai recieved alot of complaints and critical comments regarding the advertisment,  many found it unacceptable for suicide to be the main theme of the advertisment as many have lost loved ones to suicide, and to use this traumatic act to promote and market enviornmently friendly cars, and in my opinion Hyundai should not be suprised with the criticism received.

From witnessing the reaction and potentially losing customers, Hyundai realised their mistakes and apologized for the advertisment. Personally I believe that the controversial content was what caused the advertisement to go viral, and by apologising, potential customers can understand and realise Hyundai did not intend any harm. Thus with a large audience viewing that Hyundai designed a car with 100% water emissions, and having no emotion against Hyundai as they have apologised. In the long run, the release of the advertisemnt with the added apology is in fact beneficial towards the sales of the car.This from a marketing and business standpoint is rather impressive and almost ingenious.