GM’s Super Bowl Ad: Will Ferrell Takes On Norway to Electrify America with Awkwafina and Kenan Thompson

General Motors (GM) made a significant splash during the Super Bowl with a memorable commercial that not only entertained millions but also highlighted a crucial global trend: the accelerating shift towards electric vehicles (EVs). Featuring comedic titans Will Ferrell, Awkwafina, and Kenan Thompson, the ad playfully challenged Norway’s impressive lead in EV adoption, creating a buzzworthy moment that extended far beyond the game itself. This star-studded campaign served as a powerful declaration of GM’s commitment to an all-electric future, inviting everyone to join the revolution and rethink their perceptions of electric mobility.

The Super Bowl Ad: A Comedic Quest to Electrify America

The commercial, strategically aired during Super Bowl LIV, immediately hooks viewers with a fascinating, yet frustrating, statistic for Will Ferrell: as of today, over half of the new vehicles sold in Norway are electric. This stands in stark contrast to the United States’ market share, where electric vehicles made up less than 4% as of 2020. This glaring disparity visibly gets under Ferrell’s skin, sparking a comedic rage that leads him to first punch a globe, then impulsively purchase a ticket to the Scandinavian country. His mission is clear, albeit misguided: to confront Norway’s dominance in EV adoption and spur America into action, driven by a humorous sense of national pride and technological rivalry.

Ferrell’s ambitious quest to “crush those lugers” quickly escalates as he enlists his equally eccentric companions. He recruits a pirate-garbed Kenan Thompson and an archery-practicing Awkwafina to join his campaign of “CRUSHING.” However, their journey across the Atlantic is fraught with comedic misdirection. Upon what he believes is his arrival, Will finds Norway to be surprisingly “adorable” and far from the formidable adversary he imagined. Meanwhile, Kenan and Awkwafina, taking a wrong turn, find themselves hilariously lost in Finland, far from the scene of any potential confrontation. The ultimate twist arrives when Ferrell himself discovers he’s not actually in Norway, but rather Sweden. This geographical mix-up, especially from an actor who famously starred in a film about the Eurovision Song Contest in Scandinavia, adds layers of self-aware humor, perfectly encapsulating the light-hearted tone despite the serious underlying message of environmental responsibility and technological advancement.

“Everybody In”: GM’s Ambitious Vision for an Electric Future

The “No Way, Norway” commercial is not just a standalone ad; it serves as a high-profile extension of GM’s groundbreaking “Everybody In” campaign. This initiative, launched in January 2021, marks GM’s first corporate-level ad campaign in over a decade, signaling a monumental shift in the company’s strategic direction. The “Everybody In” campaign is specifically designed to excite and engage a new generation of vehicle buyers, particularly environmentally conscious consumers such as Millennials and Gen Z, who are deeply concerned about global warming and seek sustainable solutions. It’s a direct invitation for everyone – from individuals to communities – to join in the collective effort to transition to an all-electric future, emphasizing that this is a journey for all, not just a select few.

A primary goal of the “Everybody In” campaign is to significantly accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles on a global scale. GM aims to achieve this by prominently showcasing its revolutionary Ultium battery technology and raising widespread awareness of its commitment to rolling out an impressive fleet of 30 new electric vehicle (EV) models by 2025. This aggressive timeline underscores GM’s serious intent to lead the charge in electric mobility. The “No Way, Norway” advertisement strategically features upcoming Ultium-powered electric vehicles, including the luxurious Cadillac LYRIQ luxury SUV and the robust GMC HUMMER EV supertruck. These vehicles are not merely concepts; they represent tangible steps towards a diverse and compelling future where electric options are available across various segments, demonstrating that sustainability can coexist with performance, luxury, and utility.

The Ultium Platform: Powering GM’s Electric Vehicle Revolution

At the technological core of GM’s electric vehicle strategy is the innovative Ultium battery platform. This highly flexible and modular architecture is designed to underpin a wide array of electric vehicles, from compact cars to large SUVs and heavy-duty trucks. Ultium batteries are engineered to offer impressive range, rapid charging capabilities, and exceptional power output, directly addressing common consumer concerns about EV performance and practicality. The platform’s adaptability allows GM to optimize battery pack sizes and configurations for different vehicle types, ensuring that electric mobility is both accessible and highly functional for a broad spectrum of consumers. This pioneering technology is crucial for GM’s vision of an all-electric future, providing the scalable and efficient foundation needed for mass EV production.

Norway’s EV Success: A Global Inspiration for Electric Adoption

The ad’s central premise cleverly draws attention to Norway’s unparalleled success in electric vehicle adoption. The Scandinavian nation has become a global leader, with its proactive government policies playing a pivotal role. Significant tax incentives, exemptions from tolls, and preferred parking benefits have made EVs highly attractive to Norwegian consumers. This supportive regulatory environment, coupled with a well-developed charging infrastructure and a strong public awareness of environmental issues, has propelled Norway to its remarkable EV market share. For countries like the United States, Norway serves as a powerful and inspiring example, demonstrating the immense potential for rapid EV transition when there is concerted effort from policymakers, industry, and the public. It highlights that the path to widespread electrification is achievable and beneficial on many fronts.

Will Ferrell’s Engaging Endorsement: Humor Meets Sustainability

In a press release coinciding with the ad’s release, Will Ferrell shared a characteristic humorous remark that perfectly encapsulated the campaign’s spirit: “I’m excited to be a part of GM’s commitment to EVs. I’ve been driving an EV since the mid-80s…well, actually, it was a regular car with four AA batteries taped to the carburetor, but it felt like an EV! We’re coming for you, Norway!” While Ferrell’s anecdote is a joke, it subtly reinforces the genuine and growing commitment to more environmentally conscious vehicles from both him and General Motors. His unique brand of comedy makes a potentially serious topic like climate change and EV adoption more approachable and engaging for a mass audience. By using celebrity appeal, GM effectively connects with consumers on an emotional level, making the transition to electric vehicles seem not only responsible but also fun and aspirational.

GM’s Strategic Vision: A Call to Reconsider Electric Vehicles

Deborah Wahl, GM global chief marketing officer, eloquently articulated the strategic importance of the Super Bowl platform for this campaign. She stated, “The big game is the perfect venue for the incomparable Will Ferrell to encourage us all to reconsider what we know about electric vehicles, and to invite ‘Everybody In’.” Her words underscore GM’s intention to use the wide reach of the Super Bowl to challenge preconceived notions about EVs and to foster a broader acceptance of electric mobility. Wahl further emphasized GM’s shared vision with the leading nation: “We admire his passion for EVs and share Norway’s pursuit of an all-electric future.” This statement not only acknowledges Norway’s pioneering role but also firmly positions GM as a company committed to achieving similar sustainability goals. The “Everybody In” slogan is a powerful invitation to consumers, businesses, and communities to participate in this transformative shift towards a cleaner, more sustainable transportation ecosystem. Comprehensive information regarding GM’s electric vehicle initiatives and the “Everybody In” campaign can be accessed directly at GM.com.

The Super Bowl’s Impact: Redefining Automotive Futures

Super Bowl advertising is a high-stakes arena where brands invest heavily to create memorable moments that resonate with millions. GM’s choice to launch its pivotal EV campaign on this grand stage demonstrates a profound confidence in its electric future and a determination to lead the automotive industry’s transformation. The “No Way, Norway” ad, with its blend of humor and a clear message, successfully introduced complex technological advancements and ambitious corporate goals in an accessible and entertaining format. By leveraging celebrity endorsements and a universally relatable competitive spirit, GM cut through the immense advertising clutter, sparking widespread conversations not just about the commercial itself, but about the urgent need for sustainable transportation and the exciting possibilities that electric vehicles offer. This strategic move solidifies EVs as a central component of mainstream automotive, shifting public perception and inspiring action.

Driving Towards an Electric Horizon: Beyond the Laughs

GM’s “Everybody In” campaign, powerfully reinforced by the Super Bowl ad, represents far more than just a new line of products; it signifies a fundamental pivot in corporate strategy and a deep commitment to environmental stewardship. The widespread adoption of electric vehicles promises significant environmental benefits, including a dramatic reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, improved air quality in urban centers, and a decreased global reliance on finite fossil fuels. For consumers, the advantages extend beyond environmental impact to practical benefits such as lower running costs due to cheaper electricity compared to gasoline, reduced maintenance requirements, and a superior, quieter, and smoother driving experience. By making EVs appealing, diverse, and accessible, GM is not only shaping its own destiny but actively contributing to a healthier planet and a more sustainable transportation system for generations to come. The journey to an all-electric future is a monumental collective endeavor, and through innovative and engaging campaigns like “No Way, Norway,” GM is actively inviting everyone to participate and make a difference.

In conclusion, GM’s Super Bowl ad, featuring the comedic brilliance of Will Ferrell, Awkwafina, and Kenan Thompson, was a masterclass in strategic marketing. It expertly blended humor, star power, and a compelling message to effectively communicate GM’s ambitious vision for an all-electric future, driven by its innovative Ultium technology and the expansive “Everybody In” campaign. By playfully acknowledging Norway’s leading role in EV adoption, GM highlighted the global imperative for electrification while firmly positioning itself as a key player in this transformative journey. The ad served as a compelling invitation to reconsider electric vehicles, showcasing them as a fun, practical, and sustainable choice for everyone, proving that the road to an electric future is paved with both innovation and a good laugh. Visit GM.com to learn more and join the electric revolution.