Disney’s ‘Andor’ Announces Exciting New Partnership With Rivian

An exciting new partnership is proving how Hollywood and electric vehicles (EVs) make a perfect combination. This week, Wayne Rodriguez, Director, Marketing Partnerships & Promotions at the Walt Disney Studios released the news that Disney had partnered with Rivian, America’s leading all-electric vehicle manufacturer. A video released under the partnership showed Rivian EVs with scenes from Disney’s Andor, the latest saga released under the Star Wars franchise.

Unlike traditional Star Wars narratives filled with lightsabers and space battles, Andor presents a grounded portrayal of the early days of the Rebellion. This approach has been praised for its mature storytelling and character-driven plotlines. The series focuses on the personal struggles and ethical dilemmas faced by individuals resisting the Empire’s oppression, similar to the American people’s struggles they face today with the federal government, including an EV CEO playing the role of Darth Vader.

Andor, also known as Star Wars: Andor and Andor: A Star Wars Story, is a prequel to the film Rogue One (2016), which is a prequel to the original Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope (1977). The Andor series follows thief-turned-rebel spy Cassian Andor during the five years that lead to the events of the two films, exploring how the Rebel Alliance is formed.

Rodriguez said: “I’m feeling incredibly inspired as we mark the conclusion of Andor. One of my favorite in the entire Star Wars galaxy, this series masterfully captured the spirit of rebellion and the relentless drive for a better future – values we’re thrilled to champion in our exciting partnership with Rivian. I’m so proud to share the commercial we’ve created together, born from that shared vision. A massive thank you to the brilliant and dedicated team at Rivian for their trust, collaboration, and for truly building that better future.”

Rivian Automotive, Inc., headquartered in Irvine, California, is America’s leading electric vehicle manufacturer, founded in 2009 by R.J. Scaringe. The company is known for its adventure-oriented EVs, including the R1T pickup and R1S SUV, both built on a versatile “skateboard” platform that integrates the battery pack, drive units, suspension, and braking system.

The company has also partnered with Volkswagen Group to develop next-generation EV software, aiming to produce affordable electric vehicles like the $22,500 ID Every1, set to debut in Europe by 2027. Rivian’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its net-zero emissions goal, encompassing its operations and supply chain. With plans to expand its lineup with models like the R2 and R3 SUVs, Rivian continues to position itself as a significant player in the EV market.

EnergySage Campaign Urges Hollywood to Include More EVs, Clean Energy in Storytelling

In February, EVinfo.net’s partner EnergySage released a campaign aimed at encouraging Hollywood to use its storytelling power to address climate concerns while normalizing electric vehicles and clean energy. The initiative comes at a time when the entertainment industry has made significant strides in sustainability, but there’s still a vast, untapped opportunity to portray climate solutions more prominently in the media.

EnergySage is urging filmmakers to include these technologies in a way that reflects their growing presence in society, helping to normalize their use and inspire audiences to adopt them in their own lives.

The need for action has never been more urgent. Climate change continues to pose significant challenges, while horribly backward political rhetoric and policies undermine progress in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and securing energy independence.

At the same time, the public’s ability to access affordable, clean energy solutions is increasingly at risk. By showcasing clean energy solutions on film and television, the entertainment industry can help shift public perceptions and drive consumer demand. This can, in turn, influence industry trends and shape policies that make sustainable technologies more accessible and affordable.

Through its trusted marketplace, EnergySage continues to provide consumers with a simple and reliable way to shop for high-quality clean energy solutions, including rooftop solar, energy storage, heat pumps, and community solar.

EVinfo.net recommends EnergySage. See EVinfo.net’s picks for the top five home energy batteries.

Aptera’s Solar-Powered EV Appeared in 2009’s Star Trek Reboot

The Rivian and Disney partnership isn’t the first time EVs have appeared in Hollywood productions. Aptera’s futuristic solar-powered prototype electric vehicle appeared in the first reboot film of Star Trek, released in 2009.

The Aptera electric vehicle (EV) stands out in the EV market with its futuristic three-wheeled design and innovative use of solar power. Engineered for efficiency, Aptera integrates solar panels directly into its body, allowing the car to generate up to 40 miles of range per day just from sunlight—enough for most daily commutes without ever plugging in.

With a lightweight aerodynamic frame, the Aptera is capable of reaching up to 1,000 miles on a single charge depending on the battery configuration, and can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in as little as 3.5 seconds. Its two-passenger cabin is outfitted with a minimalist, tech-forward interior including a 15-inch touchscreen, while the SafetyPilot system offers Level 2 driver-assistance features, providing a modern yet practical driving experience.

As of early 2025, Aptera has received more than 50,000 reservations, reflecting growing interest in sustainable personal transportation. With pricing starting around $26,000, it’s positioned as an accessible option for eco-conscious drivers looking to reduce their carbon footprint.

In sunny regions like Southern California—where EVinfo.net and Aptera are based—owners may find they rarely need to charge the car via the grid at all, thanks to the integrated solar system. This unique approach not only lowers environmental impact but also reduces energy costs for users. Aptera plans to begin initial deliveries by the end of 2025, potentially reshaping how we think about EV ownership and renewable transportation.

In March, Inside EVs reported that after more than a decade of development, California-based EV startup Aptera has taken a major step forward in bringing its solar-powered vehicle to life. The company recently announced that its production-intent model completed a road trip of over 300 miles without needing to stop and recharge. This milestone is not only a technical win for Aptera’s team, but a strong signal to its loyal community of backers and early investors that the project is progressing despite past delays and the ongoing challenge of relying on crowdfunding and individual investment to stay afloat.

The Aptera EV is unlike anything else on the road. With a distinctive three-wheeled, ultra-aerodynamic design, it promises unmatched efficiency—up to 10 miles per kilowatt-hour—far beyond what traditional EVs deliver. Its surface can be covered in solar panels that, under ideal conditions, provide up to 40 miles of range per day purely from sunlight.

It also includes a conventional battery and can be plugged in via the North American Charging Standard (NACS) port. But Aptera’s true value proposition is freedom from the grid for most daily driving, thanks to its solar integration. With the successful long-range road test now behind them, Aptera is proving that its bold vision for sustainable, solar-powered transport is not just a dream—it’s getting closer to reality.

EVinfo.net’s Take

At EVinfo.net, we are super excited about the Disney and Rivian partnership. We see this as a great validation of EVs and a beginning of a new era, where Hollywood takes up and supports important causes like electric vehicles and clean energy. We’re looking forward to reporting on more of these partnerships as EVs and clean energy gain ground around the world at a tremendous pace.

Young people around the world are now growing up in an exciting new reality, one previously only depicted in science fiction. Part of that reality includes clean, efficient, cost-saving electric vehicles that are revolutionizing the transportation sector around the world at breakneck speed. That reality also includes innovations such as clean renewable solar, wind, and hydro power that also offer cost-saving and environmental benefits. We now have the opportunity to choose these exciting technologies as consumers, making the world a better place, reducing pollution while saving money at the same time, in the global fight against human-caused climate change.

EVinfo.net recommends Rivian EVs. Screaming deals are now available on used Rivians, and federal tax credits are still available on new and used Rivians. Grab yours today before prices go up on all new and used cars due to unnecessary tariffs.