Cars 3 introduced Jackson Storm, Lightning McQueen's high-tech rival.
Storm represents a new generation of racers built around advanced simulation, data analysis, and modern training methods. His sleek black design and confident personality contrast with Lightning's older racing style.
The film's central conflict concerns the changing technology and culture of professional racing. Lightning must decide whether he can compete with younger racers and how much of his own experience can be passed to Cruz Ramirez.
Jackson Storm is not the same character as Chick Hicks, Lightning's aggressive rival from the first Cars film. Storm's role is tied specifically to Cars 3's story about aging champions, innovation, and mentorship.