Mazda Partners with Google Earth for the Mazda CX-7 Earth Search Sweepstakes

RESTON, Va.--May 2, 2006--Mazda North American Operations today announced that beginning April 29, 2006 consumers will be able to search the globe online for a chance to win an all-new 2007 Mazda CX-7. Leveraging the popularity of Google Earth, a free software application run through Earth.Google.com that combines satellite imagery, maps and a powerful search engine, users will be able to use video clues to search all over the globe for a chance to win a brand new Mazda CX-7. Encouraging users to "Search for the SUV you Never Saw Coming," the online game will serve to break through the automotive clutter and generate buzz and awareness for the all-new Mazda CX-7.

"This multi-tiered campaign is a great example of how Mazda has gone beyond basic marketing tactics to embrace emerging technologies in communicating to consumers," said Brian Colianni, senior vice president of sales and marketing, MNAO. "The Mazda CX-7 Earth Search Sweepstakes utilizes cutting-edge technology to create a relevant and entertaining online experience for participants of the sweepstakes, an experience that we think will resonate with our target."

The Mazda CX-7 Earth Search Sweepstakes was developed collaboratively by Doner, Mazda's agency of record, Proxicom, and Sarkissian Mason, as part of the launch campaign for the vehicle. The sweepstakes running through June 27, 2006 will be housed at www.NeverSawItComing.com with print, online and search engine marketing components driving traffic to the site. "Proxicom has been working with Mazda since 2002 as Mazda's Interactive Agency of Record," said Greg Morrell, Proxicom's Managing Director for Automotive. "We applaud Mazda's holistic perspective on using innovative, interactive approaches to touch consumers in a fun, yet meaningful way. It's a viewpoint that is fundamental to the work we do at Proxicom, and one that is certain to generate positive results for the CX-7 launch." Blue Van Dyke, Proxicom's Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing added, "The Mazda CX-7/Google Earth promotional sweepstakes is a great example of how Proxicom is helping to drive new marketing initiatives on the Internet. Interactive marketing is a cornerstone of our offerings, and we are delighted to put that expertise in play on behalf of Mazda."

To play, a consumer will visit www.NeverSawItComing.com and log-in to view a short video that will include a hidden clue to the Mazda CX-7's location. The participant will utilize Google Earth to navigate to the location, which will be marked by the Mazda Sweepstakes Entry icon, that the participant will click to enter to win. The clues will get harder and harder as participants move throughout the game. The first clue picks up where the Mazda CX-7 15 second pre-launch spots leave off.

The game will further serve to introduce the Mazda CX-7 to all participants by including a 3-D interactive tour of the vehicle. The tour will highlight the interior and exterior performance and design features.

About Mazda

Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., Mazda North American Operations oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada and Mexico through nearly 900 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada, Inc., located in Ontario, Canada, and in Mexico by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City.

About Proxicom

Proxicom, Inc., an internationally recognized Internet and information technology consulting firm, delivers custom-tailored web applications, industry-specific management consulting and IT solutions, and system integration services to Global 1000 organizations. Through the experience and ongoing passion of its talented professionals, Proxicom develops Internet and information technology solutions that transform the way business is done across a number of select industry groups including: Automotive, Healthcare, and Financial Services. Founded in 1991 as a systems integrator, Proxicom, an affiliate of The Gores Group, LLC, has developed and built web solutions for such blue-chip companies as ExxonMobil, Chevron, DuPont, Mazda North American Operations, GMAC and Toyota Motor Sales, among many others. Headquartered in Reston, VA, Proxicom also has offices in New York, NY; Chevy Chase, MD; Detroit, MI; Indianapolis, IN; Los Angeles, Irvine and San Francisco, CA. (www.proxicom.com)

About The Gores Group, LLC

Founded in 1987, The Gores Group is a private equity firm focused on acquiring controlling interests in mature and growing businesses which can benefit from the firm's operating experience and flexible capital base. The firm combines the operational expertise and detailed due diligence capabilities of a strategic buyer with the seasoned M&A team of a traditional financial buyer. The Gores Group has become a leading investor, primarily in the technology and telecommunications sectors, having demonstrated over time a reliable track record of creating substantial value in its portfolio companies alongside management. Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, The Gores Group maintains offices in Boulder, Colorado and London. For more information, please visit www.gores.com.