Toyota launched two new models of their 'trendy' Scion line automobiles yesterday at both the Chicago Auto Show and within the flying penis covered wilderness of Second Life. They held simultaneous press conferences to introduce the newly redesigned xB and the brand new xD Scion models. Money makes the virtual world go round, so now users can buy virtual for virtual money in 'Scion City', and then customize them with all different kinds of accessories. I expect to see some very interesting gearshifts in the near future.

Last year Toyota launched virtual Scions in Whyville, opting this year to hold the event somewhere people have actually heard of.

So many questions I have. Why buy a car when your character can fly? For role-playing purposes? Speaking of role-playing, can two avatars fit in the backseat? Can you have virtual sex in a virtual car within a virtual world, and if so do you have to buy virtual upholstery shampoo to get the seats clean afterwards? Michael Fahey

Toyota's Scion parks in Second Life [CNN.com - Thanks Michael!]