What is the name of the town where Pixar's Cars begins its main story?

The main story of Pixar's Cars unfolds in Radiator Springs.

Radiator Springs is a fictional town on historic Route 66 in the American Southwest. Lightning McQueen reaches it after leaving the highway and damaging the road, then must remain there while the damage is repaired.

The town's residents include Mater, Doc Hudson, Sally Carrera, Luigi, Guido, and Ramone. Their community has declined after Interstate 40 diverted traffic away from Route 66, a real historical pattern that affected many roadside towns.

Radiator Springs is not the same as the real Arizona community of Peach Springs, although Pixar's research for the film drew on Route 66 locations and landscapes. The fictional town combines several inspirations into one setting and becomes Lightning's emotional home by the end of the film.