* Capitalize on the popularity of racing: Racing, especially NASCAR, was experiencing a surge in popularity during the early 2000s. Disney saw an opportunity to tap into this audience with a film featuring anthropomorphic cars.
* Introduce a new franchise: Disney was always looking for new franchises to build upon. "Cars" was meant to be the start of a new universe, which it successfully became with sequels, spin-offs, and theme park attractions.
* Explore a different genre: Disney had a reputation for making mostly musicals and fairy tales. "Cars" was a chance to explore a more action-packed, realistic genre while still retaining their signature humor and heart.
* Target a broader audience: "Cars" was a family-friendly film that could appeal to a wide range of ages. The themes of friendship, self-discovery, and overcoming adversity resonated with both children and adults.
* Promote road trips and car culture: The film romanticized the idea of road trips and celebrated the American car culture, which appealed to a significant portion of the audience.
Ultimately, the success of "Cars" proved that Disney's gamble paid off. The film resonated with audiences, generating both critical acclaim and box office success, becoming a beloved franchise that continues to grow today.