Jackson Storm is the new champion racer who challenges Lightning McQueen in Pixar’s Cars 3.
Storm is a next-generation race car whose advanced technology, training, and aerodynamic design make him faster than many veteran competitors. His success represents the arrival of a younger generation that threatens the careers of established racers.
Storm’s rivalry with Lightning begins when McQueen struggles to keep pace with him on the Piston Cup circuit. Lightning’s sponsor sends him to train with Cruz Ramirez, setting the film’s mentor story in motion.
Unlike Chick Hicks in the first Cars, Storm is not primarily a loud comic antagonist. He is a more controlled and intimidating competitor, designed to embody technological change in professional racing. Cruz Ramirez ultimately defeats him at the Florida 500 after Lightning gives her the opportunity to race.