Hyundai helping Canadians with excuses to escape commitments and watch the
World Cup

MARKHAM, ON, June 11 /CNW/ - With the start of FIFA World Cup 2010 matches today, Hyundai Auto Canada has launched an online excuse generator to help Canadians escape from their commitments in order to watch soccer. Found on the company's World Cup themed microsite (www.worldcupfever.com), the excuse generator randomly reveals short phrases brave people can use in their effort to skirt their previously made plans.

"Soccer fans are some of the most passionate sports fans on earth," said John Vernile, Vice President of Marketing at Hyundai Auto Canada Corp. "We realized that as the World Cup descended on South Africa and the schedule for matches was released, time zones would present conflicts as Canadians tried to balance their time with their love for the beautiful game. For those brash enough to try it, we've developed some questionably plausible reasons someone could give to escape a prior commitment for a World Cup match. Or, at a minimum, they will at least generate a smile."

Examples of the generator include "My babysitter cancelled to watch the World Cup", "My clock is stuck on South African time" and "My team jersey breaks the dress code". While Vernile said he can't guarantee success, if Canadians use them "there will be no question as to your devotion to the World Cup."

In addition to the excuse generator, Hyundai Canada's World Cup microsite will allow Canadians to interact and share their passion for the game. The page will include the World Cup schedule, team updates, a downloadable mobile application to access all of the scores and a unique ringtone for mobile phones. The microsite will also link to Hyundai Canada's first Facebook page where fans can create their own virtual jersey that can be added to their person profiles.

The company has also organized a Hyundai Mobile FAN Zone that will visit districts in Toronto featuring giveaways, freestyle soccer demonstrations and one of Canada's longest foosball tables. Freestyle soccer is an acrobatic and athletic display of skill that demands creativity, imagination and ball control into a unique live entertainment spectacle. The foosball table accommodates up to 16 players at once and fans can challenge friends and strangers alike to a giant match.

In addition to the online, Social Media and Hyundai FAN Zone initiatives, Hyundai Auto Canada is promoting its connection to the World Cup through advertising.

"With specific World Cup placements appearing in print, online, out-of-home and broadcast, the company is proud to promote its connection to the World Cup and excited to help Canadians ignite their passion for the game," said Vernile.

Hyundai Auto Canada, established in 1983 and headquartered in Markham Ontario, is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Company of Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout Canada by Hyundai Auto Canada and are sold and serviced through more than 180 dealerships nationwide.

For further information: interviews or additional information, please contact Chad Heard, Public Relations Manager, Hyundai Auto Canada Corp., Office: [phone], Mobile: [phone], Email: [email protected]