What do you think of Toyota, and specifically the Prius group, flying 50 customers to Detroit from all over the world to see the 2010 Prius? And having Hirohiko Otsuka, the Prius Chief Engineer, there to chat with us. In fact all the Toyota America top brass there to talk with us, to ask us questions, to get our reaction, and let us ask them questions?

Was it a stunt? Not likely, as the group and event was not publicized. The editor of HybridCars.com was there and shot the video himself.

Was it great marketing strategy? This is more likely. An unrehearsed opportunity for Toyota and some ardent Prius fans to discuss how to move the product forward in the broader context of a challenging economy in a world facing ecological challenges brought on by transportation greenhouse gasses.

Prius burns gasoline, just like most cars, just less of it. All cars create pollution, the Prius just less of it. The Prius also just happens to have the highest customer satisfaction rating of any car and a loyal following.

Stunt or savvy marketing?