By Amanda Moses
The New York International Auto Show took place at the Jacob Javits Convention Center from April 7th to April 16th, showcasing the cars of the past, present, and future. During this display, Toyota and Hyundai intertwined youthful entertainment along with their vehicles.
Toyota partnered with Nintendo to create a Mario Kart 8 Switch themed Grand Highlander SUV. The vehicle was decked out in Nintendo’s Switch’s infamous red and white colors, as well as crimson leather seats, wall-to-wall screens and speakers in the back seat as well as the exterior trunk. Attendees were able to experience the Highlander’s spaciousness while also playing Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on an OLED screen with neon lights illuminating from the speakers which surrounded the back of the SUV.
Keeping the magic alive, Hyundai Motor Company unveiled their IONIQ 5 Disney100 Platinum car. According to the company, this is the first time Hyundai designed a vehicle with input from Walt Disney’s Imagineering, including lighting and iconic Disney music. The vehicle’s rims are shaped like Mickey Mouse’s ears, lamp screens displaying Disney’s animation of tinker bell lighting the headlights and taillights, and more iconic Disney themes.
“At Hyundai, we are always looking for new ways to connect with customers on every mile of their journey, and the magic that Disney creates inspires us to deliver moments of delight for our customers,” said Angela Zepeda, chief marketing officer, Hyundai Motor America said in a press release. “This is the first time that Disney has opened the doors to their design studio and granted access to Disney’s iconic characters for an artistic collaboration with an automaker. The IONIQ 5 is Hyundai’s flagship all-electric vehicle, and we are excited to share a limited-edition version that will deliver an unforgettable experience for any Disney fan.”
Photos by Amanda Moses
