Audio-Animatronic Mater

Through great craftsmanship and clever technology, Radiator Springs Racers pulls off the amazing trick of bringing full-sized automobiles to life. The entire cast is amazing, but Mater is the jolliest and most wildly expressive of the crew.

His believability holds up under close inspecton; In the first encounter, he's right up in your face, chatting happily and driving backwards as he leads you into trouble.

His commentary with Lightning at the ride's end is equally fun; Disney should seriously consider making this duo their official DCA ambassadors.

The audio-animatronics on RS Racers have played a huge role in DCA's turn-around, and they give the ride a heart and soul that the entire park was missing in its early years. It's great to see Disneyland's neighbor finally benefit from some classic E-Ticket magic.

Lightning Takes the Scenic Route

Every single time I see Lightning or Mater driving through Cars Land (chatting with passerby), I'm once again amazed by how casual, unhurried and natural it all looks. The Imagineers have, somehow, taken the movie's message (slow down, relax and look around) and brought that very atmosphere to life in their re-creation of Radiator Spings.

The simple decision to have the cars drive through the land to reach their meet and greet spot (at the Cozy Cone) turns their trek into an indispensable part of the big picture. It's so much better than having them simply burst onto the scene via a nearby gate.

Lightning Greets Fans at the Cozy Cone

Lightning McQueen welcomes his fans outside Sally's office at the Cozy Cone Motel in Cars Land. The combination of fun food, chatty automobiles, the town's music and terrific Cast Members make this one of the best character meet n' greet set-ups at the resort.

Lightning McQueen on the Move

Watching the citizens of Radiator Springs drive through town is one of the most simple, straightforward charms of Cars Land. Human guests politely make way for the residents, and there's always an honor guard pit crew present to gently make sure the path is clear. These frequent character appearances seem amazingly casual, and happen often enough to feel like a normal part of a typical, easy-going day in Radiator Springs.

Lightning McQueen and Tow Mater both talk to the guests as they pass, and make comments about the various shops and attractions along the way to and from their meet-and-greet appearances at the Cozy Cone Motel. Combined with the engine noise, these frequent trips along Route 66 and Cross Street add even more energy and character to the bustling little town.