Mater is Lightning McQueen’s best friend who becomes an accidental spy in Pixar’s Cars 2.
Mater is a rusty tow truck from Radiator Springs. In Cars 2, he travels with McQueen to the World Grand Prix and is mistaken for an American secret agent after overhearing information connected to the film’s conspiracy. His unusual behavior and genuine curiosity pull him into the spy story.
The character’s humor comes from the contrast between his simple, informal personality and the sophisticated international operation around him. Despite lacking formal spy training, Mater helps uncover the villains’ plan. His friendship with McQueen is central to the emotional conflict when McQueen becomes frustrated by Mater’s actions.
Guido and Luigi are also Radiator Springs friends, but neither becomes the accidental spy protagonist. Mater’s full name is commonly given as Tow Mater, while “Mater” is the short name used throughout the films.