Pixar’s Cars introduced the fictional town of Radiator Springs.
Radiator Springs is located on historic Route 66 in the southwestern United States. Lightning McQueen reaches the town after accidentally damaging its main road while trying to escape from Sheriff. A court order requires him to repair the road, keeping him in the community long enough to meet its residents and understand its history.
The town’s characters include Mater, Sally Carrera, Doc Hudson, Ramone, Flo, Luigi, Guido, and several other vehicles. Each represents a different part of small-town life, from local business to roadside hospitality. Their friendship gradually changes McQueen’s priorities.
Radiator Springs was inspired by places that Pixar filmmakers visited while researching Route 66. The film contrasts the town’s decline with the traffic and speed of Interstate 40, which diverted travelers away from the old highway. That background explains why Radiator Springs feels both isolated and deeply connected to American road culture.