"What does a Honda Element and platypus have in common?" That's the question Honda Motor Co. is posing in 16 major markets around the country.

Drivers, including Michiganians southbound on Interstate 75 near Interstate 94, are advised to tune in to a specific radio frequency to find out.

Those who oblige might hear a conversation between the vehicle and a platypus at a cocktail party.

The new commercials, part of the "Element and Friends" advertising campaign which began last fall, play within five miles of the billboards.

"From a business standpoint, it's a very efficient campaign to run because it works great online. It's not expensive to produce. It's cute and witty and it still sells products," Peyton said.

The quirky Element saw its sales drop by 6 percent during 2005 to 56,262 units. During the first two months of 2006, sales are up 5 percent.