Streaming platforms race to give EVs more screen time

A team built for big impact

Netflix and GM believe stories can change how people see new technology. Their partnership uses the power of popular shows to help introduce electric cars in a simple and natural way.

As these vehicles become more prevalent, viewers start to connect them with real-life experiences. It becomes easier for people to picture driving an EV when they see characters using them in fun or meaningful scenes.

EVs find a new stage

More electric cars are appearing in the shows people watch every day. Netflix and General Motors announced a strategic alliance in February 2023 to increase the presence of GM electric vehicles in Netflix originals, aiming to normalise EVs onscreen beyond standard ads.

This move gives electric cars a chance to feel normal and easy to understand. By showing them in moments people already enjoy, the partnership helps bring these vehicles into everyday conversations.

Will Ferrell kicks things off

The alliance drew attention with a Will Ferrell Super Bowl spot in February 2023 that playfully placed him inside worlds inspired by Netflix series, serving as a high-profile way to highlight the collaboration.

He drives GM electric cars through scenes inspired by Netflix hits like “Army of the Dead” and “Squid Game.” The ad blends comedy with familiar moments to make EVs stand out, showing that electric cars can fit into almost any story while keeping the message light and entertaining.

Helping creators use EVs smoothly

Netflix plans to guide show creators on how electric cars work. This helps writers craft scenes that feel authentic and not contrived, keeping the story flowing in a way that viewers expect.

By providing creators with the right information, EVs can be integrated in ways that make sense. It also lets characters use these vehicles in everyday moments that feel believable and relatable.

Netflix already leaning into EVs

In recent years, Netflix has featured electric vehicles from several manufacturers in its scripted and unscripted programming. The GM alliance extended that effort by committing to brief show creators so that EVs are integrated naturally on screen.

This new partnership takes that effort further by expanding the number of models that will appear. Including EVs helps keep shows modern as electric cars become more common on the road. It also gives viewers a chance to learn about new vehicles without making the moment feel promotional.

Storytelling builds EV culture

GM describes part of its mission as making EVs widely recognizable on streaming and big screens, and entertainment helps make that possible. Stories reach people in ways that simple ads cannot, especially when characters use these cars naturally.

Viewers often connect with what they see on screen. When EVs appear in meaningful or fun scenes, they become easier for people to imagine in their own lives.

Netflix goes greener behind the camera

Netflix is working to make its productions cleaner and more efficient. The company is focusing on using less energy, electrifying more equipment, and finding smarter ways to reduce emissions.

These steps push the partnership beyond storytelling. They help support cleaner practices across the entire production process, sending a message that sustainability matters both on and off screen.

Other brands join the moment

GM isn’t alone in using entertainment to support electric vehicles. Volkswagen featured the ID.4 in a global campaign tied to Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania (2023), another example of auto brands using film tie-ins to boost EV visibility.

This trend shows how popular culture is becoming a tool for introducing EVs to a wide audience. When people see these cars in big movies, they become part of everyday conversation.

Rising interest in electric cars

Across the U.S., more people are considering electric cars as more charging stations emerge and new models enter the market. However, many people still feel uncertain about switching from gas.

Seeing EVs in shows helps break down those feelings by showing how simple they can be. When familiar characters drive the idea, it becomes easier to relate to.

Small moments shape the future

Electric cars can reduce emissions and provide smoother, quieter driving experiences. However, change takes time, and people often need to see new ideas repeatedly before they become comfortable with them.

By placing EVs in everyday stories, Netflix and GM help spark that comfort. The more people see these cars used in normal ways, the more natural the future of clean driving begins to feel.

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A partnership with room to grow

Netflix and GM haven’t announced a specific end date for this alliance. As long as viewers respond well to seeing EVs in stories, the partnership has room to keep expanding.

More shows, more models, and more creative moments are likely ahead. For many viewers, this could be the first step toward learning about electric cars in a fun, simple, and engaging way.

Want a clearer picture of what sparked the issue? Follow the link to explore the full story and gain a deeper understanding of the debate.

This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.

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