In Pixar's Cars, which retired racer is revealed to be the town doctor, Doc Hudson?

In Pixar's Cars, Doc Hudson is revealed to be the retired racer known as the Hudson Hornet.

Doc is the judge and physician of Radiator Springs, but he once competed as the Fabulous Hudson Hornet. His racing career ended after a crash at the 1954 Motor Speedway of the South left him overlooked by the racing world and replaced by newer stars.

The real Hudson Hornet was a celebrated American stock car, especially in early NASCAR competition. The film uses that history as the foundation for Doc's character, including his distinctive racing number 51 and his experience as a champion.

Doc initially refuses to coach Lightning because the rookie's arrogance reminds him of the way racing treated older champions. His past is revealed through photographs and newspaper clippings, turning him into both a mentor and a link to racing history. Paul Newman provided Doc's voice in Cars.