In Cars, Mater is the rusty tow truck who becomes Lightning McQueen's friend. His full name is Sir Tow Mater, though everyone in Radiator Springs usually calls him simply Mater.
Mater owns and operates a towing and salvage yard in Radiator Springs. He is cheerful, loyal, and famous for telling tall tales, and he quickly welcomes Lightning when the hotheaded race car is stranded in town. Their friendship helps Lightning understand that success is not only about winning races or becoming famous.
Mater's design was inspired by old tow trucks encountered by the Cars production team during a Route 66 research trip. He resembles a rusty blue mid-century truck and is voiced by comedian Larry the Cable Guy. His unusual skill at driving backward was inspired by Dean Walker, a Route 66 historian known for walking and moving backward. Luigi is a Fiat, Sally is a Porsche, and Doc Hudson is a retired racing legend—not the tow truck.