The 'Dipstick 6S' is a product announced by Quaker State as a revolutionary new automotive tool that can measure oil levels, deliver the latest sports, weather and news, as well as take selfies with its built-in camera—but it's not real. Quaker State worked with Onion Labs to produce a satirical take on high-tech gadgetry.
Watching the full satirical ad for the Dipstick 6S reveals that it's actually just a spot for Quaker State's motor oil itself, which does what it has to do without requiring the assistance from technology.
Informercial-style ads like this one poke fun at other ads making fun of ads, such as the Cinnamon Toast Crunch Selfie Spoon. Meta marketing like this appeals to young consumers when brands are aware of some of the outrageous tactics that are used to sell a product.
What Makes This Trend Stand Out
- Satirical Advertising
- Opportunity to create humorous and engaging ads that poke fun at other marketing tactics.
- Meta Marketing
- Opportunity to appeal to young consumers by being self-aware of advertising techniques used by brands.
- Simplicity Over High-tech
- Opportunity to promote products or services that focus on simplicity and functionality rather than fancy gadgets.
Sectors Adopting This
- Advertising
- Opportunity for advertising agencies to develop satirical campaigns that resonate with the target audience.
- Marketing
- Opportunity for marketers to employ meta marketing strategies to connect with young consumers in a unique and self-aware way.
- Automotive
- Opportunity for automotive companies to emphasize the value of simplicity and functionality in their products.
