Citygoers in Berlin were greeted with a surprising sight: an image of German Chancellor Angela Merkel wearing nothing but bright purple undergarments.

The 1,000 square-foot image of the world leader is part of a nationwide advertising campaign for an underwear company hoping to cash-in on the success of another campaign, the "cash-for-clunkers" special for old cars.

Anyone trading in their old underwear will get a seven-dollar (five euro) discount on a new pair, with the advertisement's slogan, "The country needs new undies."

The electronic billboard in West Berlin was causing quite a stir on the streets

The electronic advert -- on a busy road junction in the heart of former West Berlin -- was certainly causing a stir on the streets, with people taking pictures of the sign and discussing the unconventional approach.

The 54-year-old Merkel did not have much to say on the subject, with a spokesman saying, "The chancellor's office does not want to comment on the campaign."

Also situated behind Merkel in the advertisement are other members of Germany's political elite, also in their underwear, including Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier, who aims to unseat Merkel in upcoming elections.