The Pixar film Cars introduced Mater before Cars 2 and Cars 3.
Cars premiered in 2006 and established Mater as a rusty tow truck living in Radiator Springs. He quickly became Lightning McQueen’s closest friend, helping the newcomer understand the town and its residents. Mater’s humor, loyalty, and unusual stories made him one of the series’ most recognizable characters.
Mater returned in Cars 2, where his mistaken identity draws him into an international spy adventure. He also appears in Cars 3, alongside the returning residents of Radiator Springs. His role changes across the sequels, but his friendship with Lightning remains a key part of the series.
Mater was voiced by comedian Larry the Cable Guy in the feature films. The character’s name is a play on “tomater,” an informal pronunciation of “tomato,” which fits the film’s habit of giving vehicle characters automotive or road-related names.