Smokey is the veteran race car Lightning McQueen meets in Cars 3.
After a major setback, McQueen travels to Thomasville, a town connected to the racing history of Doc Hudson. There he meets Smokey, an old mechanic and former member of Doc’s racing circle. Smokey helps McQueen understand that Doc’s career was more complicated than the legend suggested.
Smokey explains that Doc’s most meaningful period came after he stopped chasing victories and began helping others. This history gives McQueen a new perspective on competition, mentorship, and the possibility of contributing to racing in a different way.
Smokey is voiced by Chris Cooper. He is distinct from Louise Nash, River Scott, and Junior Moon, other veteran racers associated with Thomasville and the film’s account of earlier racing generations.