In Pixar's Cars 3 (2017), Jackson Storm becomes Lightning McQueen's principal rival after a new generation enters the Piston Cup.
Storm is a sleek, highly advanced race car who represents the younger competitors replacing the older generation. He wins repeatedly with technology, data-driven training, and a powerful aerodynamic design. His success makes McQueen question whether experience alone can keep him competitive.
The rivalry begins when Storm humiliates McQueen during a race and McQueen crashes while trying to match his speed. The incident leads McQueen to accept new training methods and seek help from Cruz Ramirez. Storm therefore functions as both an antagonist and a symbol of rapid technological change in racing.
Jackson Storm is voiced by Armie Hammer. His black-and-blue appearance contrasts with McQueen's red design, making the generational conflict visually clear. Although Storm is the central rival, Cars 3 ultimately focuses less on defeating one opponent than on deciding how a veteran can pass knowledge to the next generation.