Cruz Ramirez becomes Lightning McQueen's new trainer in Pixar's Cars 3.
Cruz is a young, highly trained racing technician who works at the Rust-eze Racing Center. She initially uses data, simulations, and modern training methods to help McQueen compete against the newer generation of racers, especially Jackson Storm.
Cruz begins the film believing that she is better suited to coaching than racing. As the story develops, McQueen recognizes her talent and helps her pursue a racing opportunity of her own. Her arc parallels McQueen's shift from protecting his own career to helping someone else succeed.
Cristela Alonzo voices Cruz. The character is distinct from Sally Carrera, McQueen's friend and romantic partner, and from Louise Nash, a veteran racer who appears in McQueen's research into the sport's past.