LOS ANGELES, Nov 22 — The main character of Pixar’s Cars franchise could be in for a rough ride, if the teaser trailer for June 2017’s Cars 3 is anything to go by.

Gone are the vibrant, upbeat notes that typify a Cars franchise entry, replaced instead by a more serious treatment, as red racer Lightning McQueen hurtles round a stock car circuit.

Pixar offers some context via its official synopsis: "Blindsided by a new generation of blazing-fast racers, the legendary Lightning McQueen (voice of Owen Wilson) is suddenly pushed out of the sport he loves.”

"To get back in the game, he will need the help of an eager young race technician, Cruz Ramirez, with her own plan to win, plus inspiration from the late Fabulous Hudson Hornet and a few unexpected turns.”

And despite first appearances, there’s a big dose of courage around the corner: "Proving that #95 isn’t through yet will test the heart of a champion on Piston Cup Racing’s biggest stage!”

Cars 3 is set for North American release on June 16, 2017, and in select territories the same week, with a staggered international roll-out to follow. — AFP-Relaxnews