The Pixar film that introduced Mater before his larger role in Cars 2 was Cars.
Mater first appears in the 2006 film Cars as the rusty tow truck who lives in Radiator Springs. He becomes Lightning McQueen's closest friend after McQueen is forced to stay in town and repair the road. Mater's humor, loyalty, and enthusiasm make him one of the original film's most prominent supporting characters.
Cars 2 expands his importance by placing him at the center of an international spy adventure. McQueen travels to the World Grand Prix, while Mater is mistaken for a secret agent and becomes involved with British intelligence. The sequel therefore changes his function from comic local companion to accidental action protagonist.
Mater is voiced by Larry the Cable Guy in the English versions. His name is a pun on “tomater,” a pronunciation suggested by the phrase “tow mater,” matching his occupation as a tow truck. Cars 3 returns more attention to McQueen's racing story.