• October 14, 2008

Toyota is taking a page from Chrysler. The latter has run promotions at auto shows and events getting people to do everything from licking their way to a new car, or kissing, or dancing.

Toyota is doing likewise at the Washington, D.C. show on Feb. 4. The carmaker is offering a new Camry Hybrid or Prius to the winner of a ballroom dancing contest, "Dancing for Toyotas." A third car--a Toyota Yaris--will be awarded to a fan who votes for the winners online.

Sponsors include the Washington Area Toyota Dealers, Arthur Murray Dance Studios, the Washington Area New Automobile Dealers Association and MIX 107.3 FM. Video audition tapes from potential contestants have to be uploaded to www.washingtonautoshow.com.

Six male and female contest finalists will be selected from those auditioning by a panel of judges, receive weeks of dancing lessons and then compete on-site with their Arthur Murray partner at the Washington Auto Show. The dancers will perform for a panel of celebrities and dance experts.--Karl Greenberg