This text was not translated, because it is originally in English
The day before the Chicago Auto Show opens its doors to the general public the media in attendance has been joined by – for want of a better phrase – social media fans. Auto companies have discovered the power of social media sites, such as Facebook and Twitter, as a powerful means of having a two-way communication with current and future customers. The show organizers encouraged auto companies to invite selected fans to get an early peak of cars at the show.

Audi is an example of a company that is putting social media to great use. Last summer Audi USA asked people on its Facebook page to petition if they wanted the company to import the TT RS. Within six weeks 10,000 people had voted yes and Audi was convinced it would be worthwhile importing.

As a thank you gesture, Audi invited its Facebook fans who signed the petition and live near Chicago to a Pizza lunch today as the 2012 TT RS is shown in the US for the first time. Guests will also get a chance to chat with the TT RS product planner. Audi says it is a great way for its Facebook fans to be considered part of the team.

In addition the first 100 people who sign in on FourSquare or Facebook Places on the Audi stand during each day of the show will be given a copy of Audis augmented reality 2011 calendar.

A reminder – the 2012 Audi TT RS has a 2. 5-liter turbocharged 5-cylinder producing 340 bhp. Even more significant the TT RS will only be offered in the US with a 6-speed manual. In a switch, its only Europeans who can opt for a DSG version. Pricing of the fast small AWD sports car has not yet been finalized.