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Ka-Chow! Lightning McQueen and Tow Mater have Arrived at the National Automobile Museum!

The National Automobile Museum opened a new exhibit featuring two iconic main characters from the “Cars” animated film franchise.

The new exhibit opened on April 15 and features full-scale models of Lightning McQueen and Tow Mater. Lightning McQueen is part athlete, part stock car. McQueen is voiced in the films by actor Owen Wilson and was named after the late Pixar animator Glen McQueen, who passed away in 2002. Sir Tow Mater, most commonly referred to as Tow Mater or simply Mater, is voiced in the films by Larry the Cable Guy and inspired by a 1956–57 International Harvester Tow truck.

“We are delighted to have these two smiling vehicles for visitors to enjoy in our changing exhibits area,” said Phil MacDougall, NAM’s president and executive director. “They’re fun for all ages. It doesn’t matter how old you are; your eyes will light up when you see these two full-size characters. Don’t wait – make plans to visit the Museum soon before they’re gone.”

Now on display in the Museum’s Changing Gallery with McQueen and Mater are “Guinevere” from Onward, “Grease Lightning” from Grease, Suki’s 2001 Honda S2000 Roadster from “2 Fast 2 Furious (2003),” “Herbie” from “Herbie: Fully Loaded,” the 1966 Chrysler Imperial “Black Beauty” from “Green Hornet” TV series, and the 1966 George Barris “Mongrel T.”

“We’re excited to share these fun vehicles. Everyone who visits has their favorite. The car they want to take a selfie with. There’s something for everyone to enjoy,” said Phil MacDougall, NAM’s executive director. “If you haven’t visited NAM in a while, you’ll be surprised at all the changes happening. It’s a great time to visit with the family.”

The exhibit is now open and included with the purchase of admission tickets or with your membership. For more information about the National Automobile Museum, named one of America’s Top 10 Automobile Museums, visit automuseum.org or call 775-333-9300.

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