Bubba Wheelhouse: The Next-Gen Driver Who Represents Diversity in Cars 3
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851 mots | Temps de lecture : 4 minute(s)
Bubba Wheelhouse is part of the new wave of Next-Gen racers introduced in Cars 3 (2017). Under the number 6 and the colors of Transberry Juice , he symbolizes the arrival of faster, high-tech cars that are shaking up the established order of the Piston Cup .
📰 To get a sense of the derby atmosphere and the vitality of the supporting cast, also read: Arvy, the camper van from Thunder Hollow .
Summary
- Who is Bubba Wheelhouse?
- Design and livery
- Real inspiration and voice
- Role and symbolism in the film
- About “Specifications”
- Derivatives
- Summary table
- FAQ
Who is Bubba Wheelhouse?
In the Cars 3 timeline, Bubba Wheelhouse is introduced as the replacement for previous-generation Transberry Juice driver Markus Krankzler (information from additional profiles and lore, not stated on-screen). This replacement occurs during the 2016 season , marking the rise of the Next-Gen against the Piston Cup veterans.
Design and livery
Bubba is recognizable by his purple/indigo livery with blue and yellow accents . He wears the number 6 and Transberry Juice markings. Like other Next-Gen cars, he sports a sharp, aerodynamic design. Terms such as "SA-3 2017 Next-Gen Race Car" are fan classifications and not official Pixar data.
🛒 To complete your Next-Gen grid, take a look at the Cars collection.
Real inspiration and voice
Bubba Wheelhouse is inspired by professional NASCAR driver Darrell “Bubba” Wallace Jr. , who voices him in the original version , providing a touch of authenticity and a direct parallel between the Pixar universe and the real world of NASCAR .
📰 On the musical and sensitive characters side of the saga, also discover: Sweet Tea, the voice of Thomasville .
Role and symbolism in the film
Although a supporting character , Bubba symbolizes the generational shift at the heart of Cars 3 : the rise of the Next-Gen against veterans like Lightning McQueen . His association with Bubba Wallace reinforces the theme of diversity and openness in motorsport, even if this aspect is not directly expressed on screen.
🖼️ For a fan decor, browse the Cars Poster collection.
About “Specifications”
The film and Pixar materials do not mention any official technical details about Bubba Wheelhouse 's powertrain or performance. Figures sometimes cited by fans (e.g., "5.86L V8, 750 hp, 0–60 mph in 4 seconds") are fan lore and have no canonical basis .
Derivatives
Mattel released several versions of Bubba Wheelhouse in 1:55 die-cast as early as 2017, in the Cars 3 line. He is also found in some multipacks and in a NASCAR Series variant ( #23 ), inspired by Bubba Wallace 's real-life racing number.
🧩 For the home universe (bedroom, playroom), take a look at the Cars Rug collection.
Summary table
| Full name | Bubba Wheelhouse |
|---|---|
| First appearance | Cars 3 (2017) |
| Number | 6 |
| Sponsor | Transberry Juice |
| Vehicle type | Next-Gen Race Car (community designation) |
| Main colors | Violet/indigo with blue and yellow accents |
| Replaces | Markus Krankzler (old generation Transberry Juice) |
| Voice (VO) | Darrell “Bubba” Wallace Jr. |
| Derivatives | Mattel 1:55 , multipacks , NASCAR Series #23 |
| Status in the saga | Next-Gen Secondary Pilot , representing the new technological era |
FAQ
-
Does Bubba Wheelhouse appear in other Cars movies?
No, only in Cars 3 . -
What is his race number?
Number 6 . -
Which real pilot inspired it?
NASCAR driver Bubba Wallace , who also lends him his voice. -
Who is he replacing in the Piston Cup?
Former Transberry Juice driver Markus Krankzler . -
Are there any official toys?
Yes, several Mattel 1:55 die-casts , including a NASCAR edition ( #23 ).
📰 To stay in the mood of the “culture & decor” characters, also read: Zen Master, the guardian of the Zen garden .
Conclusion
Bubba Wheelhouse isn't just another Next-Gen driver : he connects the Cars universe to real-life NASCAR thanks to Darrell “Bubba” Wallace Jr. He embodies both the modern technology and cultural diversity that Pixar showcases in Cars 3 . Through his distinctive design and merchandise , he stands out as one of the franchise's most recognizable Next-Gen drivers.