This archive report was first published on 5 August 2020.
On August 5, 2020, German car manufacturer Audi faced intense criticism on social media after sharing an advert for their RS 4. The ad featured a young girl leaning against the front of the car, eating a banana, with the caption 'Let's your heart beat faster – in every aspect.'
Many users expressed their outrage, calling the image 'horrible' and 'wrong on so many levels.' Some pointed out that the child was in a dangerous position, as the driver of the car might not have been able to see her. Others were concerned that the girl's pose looked 'provocative.'
One user commented, 'With a top speed of 174mph this car should be illegal based on how many kids it will likely kill through both speed and contributory pollution. Instead you want to sell this car USING A CHILD? Probably Audi's lowest moment.'
Jeremy Vine also shared his thoughts on the topic, calling it the 'most revolting car advert' he had ever seen. Audi later apologized for the advert, stating that they had not intended to hurt anyone's feelings and would not use the image in the future.
