Luxury car giant Porsche is under fire following the release of an advertisement commemorating the 60th anniversary of the iconic Porsche 911. The ad, which highlights the evolution of the renowned sports car, has drawn criticism for its apparent omission of the Cristo Rei statue, a symbol of historical and cultural significance, overlooking the city of Lisbon, Portugal.
The campaign, unveiled by the German automaker last week, aimed to pay homage to six decades of “speed and excellence” embodied by the Porsche 911. It also introduced the world to the upcoming 2024 Porsche 911 S/T special edition model, boasting impressive features and performance enhancements.
In a surprising twist, the advertisement came under scrutiny approximately 44 seconds into the video when viewers noticed the absence of the towering 92-feet-tall Cristo Rei statue that typically graces the city’s skyline. The statue, representing Jesus Christ with outstretched arms, stands atop a 269-feet-tall concrete pedestal, gazing over the Tagus River that divides the urban landscape.
The social media sphere ignited with discussions when an astute observer highlighted the omission on platform X, causing the post to quickly gain viral attention. Critics argued that the decision to edit out the culturally significant monument from the ad demonstrated a lack of sensitivity and respect for the local heritage.
Porsche swiftly responded to the mounting backlash, expressing regret and acknowledging the oversight. The company stated that the absence of the Cristo Rei statue was unintentional and attributed it to an early version of the advertisement created in Europe. The offending advertisement has been removed in response to the public outcry.
In an attempt to mend fences, Porsche released an updated version of the anniversary video on its YouTube channel. This new iteration prominently features the Cristo Rei statue, attempting to rectify the initial misstep and demonstrate a commitment to cultural appreciation and inclusivity.
Santuário de Cristo Rei: A Symbol of History and Gratitude
The Santuário de Cristo Rei, known as the Sanctuary of Christ the King, holds deep historical significance for the Portuguese people. Erected in 1959, the monument stands as a symbol of gratitude for Portugal’s neutrality during World War II, which spared the nation from the ravages of the conflict.
With arms outstretched, the Christ figure gazes upon the city of Lisbon, embodying a sense of protection and unity. The monument’s presence on the skyline has become a cherished part of the local identity, making its exclusion from the Porsche advertisement particularly poignant.
The Remarkable 2024 Porsche 911 S/T: Luxury and Performance Redefined
While the controversy surrounding the advertisement has garnered significant attention, it should not overshadow the impressive features of the 2024 Porsche 911 S/T model. Priced at $290,000, this luxury sports car exemplifies the pinnacle of engineering and performance.
Boasting a robust 518 horsepower engine, the 911 S/T accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.5 seconds, showcasing its remarkable speed capabilities. Its top speed of 186 mph on a track, equipped with summer tires, further solidifies its status as a powerhouse on the road.
Porsche’s official website hails the latest edition of the legendary 911 as a paragon of purity, agility, and unique driving dynamics. The company emphasizes the car’s lightweight design, GT high performance, and enhanced driving experience, underscoring its commitment to innovation and excellence.
In conclusion, Porsche’s celebratory advertisement marking 60 years of the Porsche 911 may have initially stirred controversy, but the swift response and corrective action taken by the company indicate a dedication to cultural understanding and appreciation. As the luxury car brand continues to push the boundaries of automotive excellence, its commitment to both performance and cultural sensitivity will undoubtedly remain under close scrutiny.
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