Hot Dog! The Wienermobile Turns 70

The design was originally conceived by Oscar Mayer's nephew, Carl, who saw potential in experimental, mobile marketing. His uncle readily agreed and the Wienermobile was born. The vehicle has undergone numerous upgrades to its design and technology. Currently, the existing Wienermobile weighs seven tons, is 27-feet long and 24-feet tall, and is powered by a V-8 engine on a Chevrolet Chassis. A global positioning system and DVD system are a few of the technological goodies installed in its hot-dog shaped dashboard.

"Hot Doggers" Dave Lakata and Natasha Best.

Not just anyone gets to take one of these gargantuan sausages for a spin, though. Oscar Mayer mobile marketing manager Ed Roland says more than 1,000 people apply to be a "Hot Dogger", but only twelve are chosen. These individuals are then extensively trained by Transportation Department officials in all manner of driving situations, to ensure that the company's six Wienermobiles (and drivers) come back in one piece. Drivers are told to avoid parking garages, low overpasses, and to wash their Wienermobiles at truck stops instead of regular carwashes.

The other half of the training is in public relations. Hot Doggers are essentially seen as ambassadors for Oscar Mayer, encouraging people to participate in the "Sing the Jingle" contest and handing out trinkets like the Wienermobile whistles. Many crews (they travel in teams of two) get to attend state fairs and festivals, including big events like the Super Bowl and the World Series. After completing a year's tour, many drivers then settle into careers such as marketing, public relations, advertising, and promotions.

Lakata shows off the interior of the Wienermobile.