America has always been the land of the free, though right now there is quite a debate over how far that freedom extends. One social issue that has become a flashpoint is gay marriage, with the recent row over Chik-Fil-A’s support for anti-gay groups stirring both ends of the political spectrum to action

So what’s that all got to do with cars? Well unbeknownst to many, GM quietly released an advertisement for the Chevrolet Volt, with the plug-in hybrid “coming out” as an electric vehicle. GM Authority reports that this subtle nod to the gay and lesbian community has quietly gone viral, being viewed more than 11 million times in the past month, before all this controversy began.

The ad is as simple as it is effective, saying “Volt runs on electric battery and a gas generator. So whatever revs your engine, we support you 100%. Happy Motor City Pride from the entire Chevrolet Family.” No political statements, no overt pandering to the gay and lesbian community; just a simple message of support and a tongue-in-cheek “Mom, Dad, I’m electric” coming out for the Volt. The ad originally ran in an LBGT Detroit newspaper, but has since spread like wildfire across the Internet.

This ad stands in stark contrast to other companies coming out in defense of “traditional” marriage, and GM’s support of the gay community is also good for business. Gay couples tend to have six-figure incomes, much more than “traditional” families, and homosexual couples account for 5% of all new car purchases, especially when it comes to fuel efficient cars.

We’re all for companies standing behind their beliefs, whatever they may be. But GM’s inclusionary attitude seems a lot more positive and better for business, don’t you think?