In Pixar’s Cars, Radiator Springs becomes Lightning McQueen’s temporary home after his escape from police.
Lightning is being transported to California when he falls from Mack’s trailer and ends up in Radiator Springs. After damaging the town’s main road, he is ordered by Judge Doc Hudson to repair it before leaving. The forced stay introduces him to Sally Carrera, Mater, Flo, Ramone, and the rest of the community.
Radiator Springs is a fictional town on the historic Route 66. Its decline reflects the construction of Interstate 40, which diverted traffic away from older sections of the road. The setting was influenced by Pixar’s research trips along Route 66 and by real roadside communities.
The town’s name is sometimes confused with Ornament Valley, the broader landscape seen in the film and later Cars attractions. Radiator Springs is the community itself, while Ornament Valley is the surrounding region. Lightning’s stay there changes his priorities before the final race.