Miles Axlerod is revealed as the mastermind behind the oil crisis plot in Pixar's Cars 2.
Axlerod is introduced as a former oil tycoon who became an electric car and organized the World Grand Prix. The event is promoted as an international celebration of alternative fuel, but the story gradually reveals that its participants are being manipulated.
The plot centers on Allinol, a fuel presented as environmentally friendly. Axlerod's scheme uses the fuel and electromagnetic weapons to make it appear dangerous, creating fear about alternative energy while benefiting his own interests.
Cars 2 also features the British spy Finn McMissile and his field partner Holley Shiftwell. Professor Zündapp is an important villainous scientist, but he works as part of the conspiracy rather than being the ultimate mastermind. Axlerod's identity is confirmed near the film's climax.