Originally published by Automotive News | Written by Nick Bunkley
A New Jersey police department got a $110,000 Ford Bronco patrol vehicle for free just by making a popular Instagram video.
All American Ford of Paramus invited police across the state to submit a video explaining why they wanted the Bronco. The contest received dozens of entries, and the dealership invited the 20 departments whose videos got the most social media engagement to a dinner.
Each finalist was randomly given a key fob to see if it would start the Bronco. The engine roared to life for Spring Lake Police Chief Edward Kerr, Jr., who called it “an incredible honor for our department and our community.”
“This brought communities together. A lot of townships had fun with it,” Jon Selman, president of All American Auto Group, told News 12 Long Island.” Some of the stories were heartfelt. Some were funny.”
All American worked with upfitter GTBM Inc./Info-Cop to customize the Bronco.
Spring Lake’s video showed two officers starting their shift jockeying with each other to reach the key for the Bronco first. The one who grabs it is then stopped by a superior who takes the Bronco for himself.
Other videos parodied the TV show “Cops,” showed officers being unable to start their current vehicles and depicted officers fruitlessly pursuing a Bronco-stealing Grinch.