Volkswagen's April Fools' Name Change Still Highlights Sustainability Commitment

Major automakers are positioning for the future of electric vehicles—including 'Voltswagen'

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One can’t blame the skepticism that greeted the “accidental” release of news that Volkswagen Group of America would change its U.S. brand name to Voltswagen of America.

That’s what marketers get when they play around with April Fools’ Day—in fact, the company confirmed to The Wall Street Journal it was all an early April Fools’ Day joke.

Voltage for a marketing jolt

Still, Volkswagen was trying to emphasize its commitment to investment in e-mobility and sustainability.

“We might be changing out our K for a T, but what we aren’t changing is this brand’s commitment to making best-in-class vehicles for drivers and people everywhere,” said Scott Keogh, president and CEO of Volkswagen of America, in the fake release.

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