Tesla–Disney Collaboration Sparks Debate: Tron-Themed Car Display Faces Backlash Over Alleged Advertising

Tesla’s Collaboration with Disney Sparks Backlash: “Tron: Ares” Car Model Update Criticized as In-Vehicle Advertising

According to Electrek, Tesla has recently struck an unexpected partnership with its long-time “rival,” Disney, rolling out an over-the-air update for international markets that lets owners replace their vehicle’s 3D model on the central display with the futuristic lightcycle from Tron: Ares. The update doubles as a promotional tie-in for Disney’s latest sci-fi blockbuster.

However, the move has stirred controversy among Tesla owners. Many users voiced frustration, claiming the company is effectively inserting ads into its car interface. Critics argue that Tesla’s development resources should be focused on more meaningful updates—such as long-awaited software improvements and expanding Full Self-Driving (FSD) support for vehicles still equipped with the older HW3 hardware—instead of cosmetic, movie-themed features.

Tron: Ares, a standalone sequel to 2010’s Tron: Legacy, officially premiered in U.S. theaters today. As of publication, the film has received 160 reviews on Rotten Tomatoes with a freshness score of 56%, and holds a Metacritic score of 49, reflecting mixed reception from both audiences and critics.