What is the name of the villainous weapons designer in Pixar’s Cars 2?

Professor Zündapp is the villainous weapons designer in Pixar’s Cars 2.

Professor Zündapp is a German scientist who works with the criminals behind the film’s plot. He develops the camera-based weapon used to make Allinol, the alternative fuel promoted by Sir Miles Axlerod, appear dangerous when exposed to electromagnetic pulses. His plan helps create international panic and manipulate public opinion about the fuel.

The character is voiced by Thomas Kretschmann. His name and design evoke the German Zündapp motorcycle company, although the character is a fictional vehicle and not a historical company executive. The umlaut in Zündapp is part of the character’s commonly written name.

Professor Zündapp is sometimes confused with Axlerod, the apparent organizer of the scheme, or with Finn McMissile, the British spy investigating it. Zündapp’s specific role is scientific and technical: he creates the device that makes the conspiracy work.