BYD and Mediawan team up on a fun new Miraculous Chibi episode

From Cars to Cartoons: A Marketing Revolution

The first major collaboration between BYD, the Chinese electric vehicle giant that just dethroned Tesla in global EV sales, and Mediawan, the powerhouse European production company behind hits like Slow Horses and Call My Agent!, isn’t just another car commercial.

It’s a 52-episode animated series—Miraculous Chibi—with a twist. This isn’t about selling vehicles; it’s about embedding BYD’s new Dolphin Surf EV into a high-octane, dialogue-free comedy where the car becomes an unlikely hero in the midst of chaos.

A High-Speed Chase Through Paris—Without the Dialogue

The series, a spin-off of the wildly successful Miraculous franchise (six seasons, 60+ million fans worldwide), drops a special episode this week on YouTube: "Watt a Dream Date!".

True to the show’s signature style—rapid-fire humor, zero dialogue, and relentless action—the plot follows Marinette’s frantic quest to reach Adrien, with the Dolphin Surf playing a pivotal role in her absurd Parisian adventure. The car isn’t just a prop; it’s a character, weaving through the madness in a way that feels both organic and, for some critics, a tad forced.

But that’s the genius of it.

Entertainment Over Ads: The New Branding Playbook?

In an era where consumers swipe past ads, blending branding with entertainment is the ultimate strategy. BYD, eager to cement its global presence beyond just car sales, is leveraging its partnership with Mediawan to insert its vehicles into future projects, including an upcoming animated film.

The financial stakes? Huge. While neither company has disclosed the budget, insiders whisper it’s a multi-million-dollar investment. For BYD, it’s a calculated risk—tying its name to a beloved franchise while giving Mediawan a fresh, high-energy injection for its animation arm.

A Match Made in Marketing Heaven?

For a brand chasing global recognition, this kind of partnership is a masterstroke. Instead of a traditional ad, BYD gets organic exposure in a show with a massive, loyal fanbase. Meanwhile, Mediawan secures cutting-edge content infused with the futuristic flair of an EV leader.

The question remains: Will the Dolphin Surf’s role feel too promotional, or will audiences embrace it as part of the story?

One thing’s certain—this isn’t just another car ad. It’s entertainment with a purpose.