As part of an alternative marketing strategy, General Motors recently teamed with 50 Cent to spotlight several of their new Pontiac models.
The Pontiac G8 GT and G6 GXP both made appearances in 50's "Amusement Park" video, and more recently 50 unveiled his own custom G8 at the SEMA Auto Show.
50's G8 was made one-of-a-kind with help from Unique Autosports. The car was treated to custom paint and exterior appointments as well as a revised interior and powertrain. The vehicle is powered by an LSX 427 engine dyno-tested to more than 500hp and assembled only with components available from the GM Performance Parts.
The engine assembly was filled out with a variety of production-based components used on the Corvette Z06's 7.0L LS7 engine, including a forged steel crankshaft, lightweight titanium connecting rods, racing-derived aluminum cylinder heads and a complete LS7 intake/throttle body/fuel injection system. For the interior, standard leather seats were re-trimmed with perforated red leather inserts and matching trim was used for the door inserts and armrests. The car was also outfitted with an 800-watt JBL audio system with amps and a subwoofer.
50's not the only one helping GM market their cars; the company had extensive product placements in the Transformers film, and the Chevrolet Camaro Concept recently appeared in a T.I. video.
In related news, 50 Cent recently released his second biography 50 x 50: 50 Cent in His Own Words, co-authored by Complex magazine's editor- in-chief, Noah Callahan-Bever. The book offers an intimate look at Fiddy's life, following him from his childhood in Queens to his ultimate rise to fame.