Disney has announced that the successful kids film franchise Cars is spinning off into a TV series for Disney+.

The new series - earmarked for release towards the end of 2022 - will follow film favourites Lightning McQueen and Mater on a new road adventure.

Announcing the news in a tweet on Thursday night, Disney said: "@Pixar is speeding ahead with a new series following Lightning McQueen and Mater on a road trip across the country. Featuring new characters, old friends, and imaginative destinations. Coming to @DisneyPlus in Fall 2022."

The development leaves potential plans for a fourth Cars movie - a follow-up to 2017's Cars 3 - up in the air.

The streaming service has also announced animated spinoff series Moana; Dug Days, featuring the dog from Up; and Tiana, a spinoff from The Princess and The Frog.