In what may be the automotive version of "American Idol," Dodge said on Thursday that it will launch a nationwide search Sept. 26 for a new Hemi guy -- or gal -- to star in its upcoming national advertising campaign for the Dodge Ram pickup.

The talent search will run until Oct. 8, with casting calls scheduled throughout the country at various events, the company said.

Steve Landry, Dodge vice president, said the company is looking for someone who "has a real passion for Dodge, Dodge trucks and Hemi engines."

The ad campaign will feature Jon Reep, aka Hemi Guy No. 1. Reep^s picture will be placed next to a cutout white space -- where his ex-sidekick once stood -- that reads "YOU ARE HERE."

In late October, "Hemi Star" finalists will be posted on the "Hemi Star" Web site, http://dodge.com/hemistar. There, consumers will vote and narrow the field to two. The winner will be chosen in November.

The original Hemi guys first appeared in the 2002 commercial called "Muscle," which launched the 2003 Ram Heavy Duty pickup.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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