Miles Axlerod is revealed as the secret mastermind in Pixar’s Cars 2.
Axlerod presents himself as a former oil baron who has converted to electric power and organizes the World Grand Prix. Behind that public image, he coordinates a conspiracy involving modified Allinol fuel and electromagnetic pulse devices.
The plot is designed to discredit alternative fuel by making the World Grand Prix cars appear dangerous when they use Allinol. Axlerod’s plan turns the international race into a cover for a larger attack and manipulation scheme.
Professor Zündapp is another major antagonist, but he is not the hidden mastermind. The film shifts much of its focus from McQueen’s personal growth to Mater’s accidental involvement in international espionage, including a mistaken identity involving British spy Finn McMissile.