

Chick Hicks (Bob Peterson), Lightning's old racing opponent and now an announcer for the Racing Sports Network, introduces his show's co-host, Natalie Certain (Kerry Washington), a statistical analysist who explains that Storm is part of a new generation of race cars who use the latest technology to run faster than the veterans. Lightning watches the replay on the Jumbotron, seeing Storm seemingly come from nowhere to beat him. During one race, Bobby and Lightning are fighting toward the finish, when a next-generation rookie named Jackson Storm (Armie Hammer) whizzes past them both, taking the checkered flag.

Whoever wins can count on getting pranked by the others, all in good fun. The three have mutual respect as they trade victories throughout the series. Now a 7-time Piston Cup champion, Lightning McQueen (Owen Wilson) is racing with his long time friends Bobby Swift (Angel Oquendo) and Cal Weathers (Kyle Petty). McQueen, Bobby and Cal watching Storm celebrating his victory. According to John Lasseter, the film would feature an old Citroën 2CV that pays tribute to Hayao Miyazaki's film The Castle of Cagliostro. The film also involves Route 99, a road that runs through central California. Their efforts include visiting the Thomasville Speedway, an abandoned Piston Cup race track, and practicing at Willy's Butte.

During his recovery, McQueen turns to Rust-eze Racing Center technician Cruz Ramirez, who assists her idol in training to beat Storm at the upcoming Florida 500 event. McQueen and Ramirez visit the Thomasville Speedway.Īt one point during the racing season, McQueen suffers a serious accident, receiving immense damage and injuries. Storm receives at least three victories throughout the season, including at the Dinoco 400 at the Copper Canyon Speedway. The rookie develops a rivalry with racing veteran Lightning McQueen, who struggles to beat Storm. Among them is Jackson Storm, a next-generation custom-built race car who has received advanced simulation training, and possesses incredible racing abilities. Proving that #95 isn't through yet will test the heart of a champion on Piston Cup Racing’s biggest stage!" Additional detailsĭuring the 2017 Piston Cup season, several new rookies have made their debut. To get back in the game, he will need the help of an eager young race technician, Cruz Ramirez, with her own plan to win, plus inspiration from the late Fabulous Hudson Hornet and a few unexpected turns. " Blindsided by a new generation of blazing-fast racers, the legendary Lightning McQueen (voice of Owen Wilson) is suddenly pushed out of the sport he loves.
