One great fanfiction idea could be that Doc Hudson, despite being in the afterlife, still manages to guide Lightning McQueen through some tough races. He appears to Lightning in his dreams and gives him advice on how to handle different track conditions and opponents.
Maybe Lightning McQueen decides to start a racing school in Radiator Springs in honor of Doc Hudson. He could use Doc's old training methods and stories to teach the new generation of cars. This would not only keep Doc's spirit alive but also help the town grow in a new way.
A story could be set in an alternate universe where Doc Hudson didn't pass away. Lightning McQueen brings him along on a modern - day racing tour. Doc is initially skeptical about all the new - fangled technology but then starts to see the potential in it and helps Lightning McQueen improve his skills even further using a combination of old - school wisdom and new - age techniques.
Their relationship can be developed by having Lightning McQueen constantly seeking Doc Hudson's advice. For example, before every big race, McQueen could have a conversation with an imaginary Doc Hudson in his mind, as if Doc were still there guiding him. This would show that Doc's influence is always with McQueen.
Lightning McQueen has always been a speed demon, but something changes when he meets Doc. Doc is different, with his gruff exterior but kind heart. Lightning can't help but be drawn to him. The moment he realizes he's in love is during a particularly tough race. Doc is on the sidelines, giving advice. Lightning hears his voice and suddenly feels a warmth inside. He then starts to court Doc in his own way. He shows off his new racing techniques, hoping to impress Doc. Doc, seeing Lightning's efforts, begins to see him in a new light too. Their relationship develops slowly but surely, like a classic car being restored with care.
In a fanfiction, a big challenge for Lightning McQueen and Doc's love story could be their public image. Lightning is a famous racer, and Doc has his own reputation in Radiator Springs. If they get into a relationship, they might face a lot of scrutiny from the media (if cars had media). Their fans might have different expectations of them. Also, Doc might be worried about holding Lightning back from his racing career, and Lightning might be afraid of changing Doc too much. These internal and external factors could create many obstacles for their love to thrive.
Overcoming challenges is another theme. Whether it's McQueen facing a tough competitor on the track or the reader dealing with personal issues, they work together to overcome these obstacles. This theme gives the stories a sense of purpose and growth for the characters.
There's a fanfiction I read where Lightning McQueen and Sally have to work together to save Radiator Springs. In this story, their relationship deepens as they overcome obstacles. It shows how their different personalities, McQueen's speed - loving nature and Sally's more calm and community - centered self, complement each other. And there are also some that focus on their courtship in a really cute way, like how McQueen tries to impress Sally with his new racing techniques.
They could go on an adventure where they discover a new and challenging track. Together, they figure out the best way to navigate it. Lightning McQueen's experience and Cruz Ramirez's fresh perspective combine to make it an exciting journey.