Ford plans American Idol promotion at dealerships

You don't normally expect much action weeknight evenings at Ford dealerships, but on Nov. 15, it will feel like you've wandered on to the set of a game show.

The automaker is sponsoring a one-night promotion at many dealerships across the country tied to its long association with the hit American Idol.

The goal is to get people to stroll into the dealership for "Go Further with Ford Night" and take a hard look at the new Fusion. If they do, the dealership will kick in $10 for a charity of its choice, and they will get to try for a game that could land them on American Idol.

Ford says the game will involve a webcam that will be set up in the dealership to allow consumers to view a special message from American Idol host Ryan Seacrest and test their judging skills on camera. Entries will be sent back to Ford's program headquarters where a team will evaluate and select one winner to receive an all-expenses-paid trip for two to Hollywood and a "unique VIP experience" on the new season of the show, which starts in January.

The promotion "is our way of pairing that imagination with reality by offering consumers the chance to give back to their local communities, have a lot of fun, enjoy the final random act – which will test their judging skills to win a unique VIP American Idol experience – and meet the all-new Ford Fusion in person."