In Pixar's Cars 3 (2017), Jackson Storm is the high-tech racer challenging Lightning McQueen.
Storm represents a new generation of race cars built with advanced aerodynamics, powerful engines, lightweight materials, and data-driven training. He quickly defeats experienced competitors and becomes the clearest symbol of the technological change threatening McQueen's career.
The rivalry begins when McQueen struggles to keep pace with Storm. His crash during an early competition leads to a public recovery campaign and a new training program at the Rust-eze Racing Center. The challenge is therefore more than a single race: it is a question of whether experience can adapt to a rapidly modernizing sport.
Jackson Storm is voiced by Armie Hammer. He is sometimes confused with Cal Weathers, a veteran racer and nephew of The King, or Bobby Swift, another racer from the film. Storm is the younger rival who triggers McQueen's attempt to return to the top.