Chevrolet is the first automaker to launch a multiscreen ad campaign that allows consumers to ‘kick the tires’ virtually using Kinect for Xbox 360.

PARIS, REDMOND, Wash. and DETROIT, June 22 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Chevrolet and Microsoft Advertising demonstrated at the 2010 Cannes Lions International Advertising Festival today an example of the first multiscreen advertising campaign that incorporates Kinect for Xbox 360 as a way to promote the Chevrolet Volt electric car launch later this year. Formerly called “Project Natal,” Kinect for Xbox 360 delivers a whole new way to play, with controller-free games and entertainment. For advertisers, it provides an innovative way to connect with consumers by enabling them to physically explore and engage with a brand through voice and gesture.

When Kinect for Xbox 360 launches this fall, consumers will have the opportunity to take the test-drive concept to a new level by driving a Chevrolet Volt in “Kinect Joy Ride,” the first controller-free racing game from Microsoft Game Studios. After viewing the video advertisement in-dash on Xbox LIVE or on the Web, consumers will be able to unlock the Chevrolet Volt in “Kinect Joy Ride” to actually drive the car in the game.

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Buyers of the Chevrolet Volt and Nissan Leaf would be eligible for a $10,000 federal tax credit in some cities under a $10 billion Senate plan to boost electric vehicles.  House and Senate members have released similar plans intended to make electric vehicles  more than niche models.

The House version would spend $6.6 billion, dedicating $800 million to five “deployment communities” to speed 700,000 plug-in vehicles into use and establish recharging networks. A Senate version would spend about $10 billion and grant $250 million to up to 15 communities.

Reported by David Shepardson of  The Detroit News

General Motors will produce the Cadillac Converj plug-in concept car that was introduced at last year’s Detroit auto show according to Vice Chairman Bob Lutz. The two-door Converj uses the same technology as GM’s Chevrolet Volt plug-in electric vehicle, due to be launched late this year. No definite timing for introduction of the Converj has been given, but it has been said it would be after 2012.