Cadillac Faces $1.5 Million Lawsuit Over Super Bowl F1 Ad
Bottom line: Director Michael Bay says Cadillac stole his ideas for the recent F1‑themed Super Bowl commercial and is suing for $1.5 million.

Cadillac F1 Super Bowl Commercial Lawsuit – $1.5 Million Claim by Michael Bay
Image: Cadillac F1 Super Bowl Commercial Lawsuit – $1.5 Million Claim by Michael Bay – Performance Comparison and Specifications
Design & Looks
The ad showcases a sleek Cadillac CT5‑V painted in the brand’s signature black‑blue palette. The car’s aggressive front grille and sculpted lines are meant to echo the speed of a Formula 1 car. Bay’s complaint claims the visual concept – the high‑speed pit‑stop choreography and the dramatic lighting – mirrors a pitch he presented months earlier.
- Sharp LED headlights that mimic F1 headlights.
- Carbon‑fiber rear spoiler for a race‑car feel.
- Interior with red‑stitched seats, echoing Bay’s “danger‑zone” aesthetic.
Performance & Mileage
While the commercial is a marketing piece, it highlights the CT5‑V’s 2.0‑liter turbo‑charged engine delivering 360 hp. The ad claims 0‑60 mph in under 4.5 seconds – numbers that appeal to performance fans. Bay alleges those performance claims were lifted straight from his draft storyboard, which also featured a 350‑hp figure.
Real‑world mileage for the CT5‑V is around 22 mpg combined, a respectable figure for a sport‑focused sedan.
Price & Rivals
The CT5‑V starts around $58,000, positioning it against the BMW M340i and the Audi S4. Bay’s lawsuit argues that using his creative work gave Cadillac a cheap way to compete with those rivals without paying for the concept.
Consumers looking at this price range will compare features like driver‑assist tech, infotainment, and the overall brand experience.
Key Specs at a Glance
| Engine | 2.0 L Turbo‑charged 4‑cyl |
|---|---|
| Mileage | ≈22 mpg (combined) |
| Price | Starting at $58,000 |
| Top Features |
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FAQ
What is the lawsuit amount Michael Bay is seeking?
Bay is asking Cadillac to pay $1.5 million for alleged idea theft.
Which Cadillac model is featured in the Super Bowl ad?
The commercial spotlights the Cadillac CT5‑V sport sedan.
Is the CT5‑V worth buying compared to its rivals?
For drivers who value sharp styling and strong performance, the CT5‑V offers a competitive price and features, but buyers should weigh infotainment and brand loyalty against the BMW M340i and Audi S4.
What do you think about using a famous director’s ideas in car ads? Share your thoughts below.
Source: Read Official News







