In Pixar’s Cars, Doc Hudson had been a racing driver before moving to Radiator Springs.
Doc is a 1951 Hudson Hornet who once competed as the Fabulous Hudson Hornet. He won three Piston Cups and became one of the most successful racers of his era before a crash ended his career and left him disillusioned with the racing world.
After retiring, Doc became Radiator Springs’ doctor and judge. He initially hides his racing history from Lightning McQueen, who eventually discovers the truth through old newspaper clippings and town memories. Doc later helps McQueen improve his cornering technique.
Doc’s character is based partly on the real Hudson Hornet, a car famous for its success in early stock-car racing. He is not a tow truck; that role belongs to Mater, while Flo operates the town’s fuel station.