Automakers get App-titude

Always on the hunt for clever ways to promote their wears, the world’s automakers are increasingly wading into the world of Apps for Apple’s popular iPhone and iPod Touch. Two that peaked our interest of late come from VW and Land Rover.

For folks out of the loop, the ‘Apps’ are small programs downloaded from the Interwebs to Apple devices. They can be anything from games or cooking advice, to how to tune a guitar or read Shakespeare.

Last week, Volkswagen of America said it became the first auto manufacturer to launch a car exclusively on a mobile device. Its all-new 2010 GTI hot-hatch debuted via a free version of the Firemint Real Racing game App for the iPhone and iPod touch.

As a bonus, U.S. users of Real Racing GTI App can win a real-life customized limited-edition GTI.

"With the personalization of media and the challenges inherent with reaching constantly connected consumers, we tasked ourselves to rethink the way we launch vehicles in order to engage our consumers in a meaningful way," said Tim Ellis, VP of marketing, Volkswagen of America. "The App allows us to connect with this savvy GTI consumer within his or her everyday life in a way that no 30-second spot ever could."

The free VW App’s available here.

Meanwhile, Land Rover recently launched the first Official Guinness Premiership iPhone App. It provides news, scores, player profiles and ticket information to fans of the UK rugby league around the world.

Landies are the official vehicle of England Rugby, Premier Rugby and the Official partner of Scottish Rugby. It worked closely with the league on the App to ensure fans get all the latest facts and figures as the action happens.

The App is free and available to download here.