Bubba Wallace advocates for more NASCAR horsepower, joining fellow drivers in urging the sport to increase engine power to enhance competition and excitement. Wallace, the driver of the No. 23 Toyota for 23XI Racing, made these remarks in early 2025 amid calls for significant changes to the Next Gen Car in NASCAR’s Cup Series.

Wallace Calls for Significant Increase in NASCAR Car Power

Bubba Wallace, a prominent competitor in the NASCAR Cup Series, is pushing for a substantial boost in horsepower to improve racing dynamics. The Next Gen Car, introduced in 2022 as the seventh generation of Cup vehicles, currently lacks the power levels many drivers and fans desire. Wallace believes the present horsepower limits diminish passing opportunities and driver control, which are essential for thrilling races.

He explained that adding more horsepower would restore the emphasis on driver skill:

“I think that would, you know, put it back in the driver’s hands a lot,”

Wallace said.

“That’s what we want. These cars are so close now. Some of these tracks that we go to, the shifting, you know, just deletes the option of passing. … It’s why teams are getting so much more competitive. Then the gap is decreasing, you know? I think horsepower brings you back to the old school feel. Just puts it back in the drivers’ hands. That’s what we want.”

Wallace Advocates for Bold Changes, Not Incremental Adjustments

Rather than small increases, Wallace insists NASCAR make a big jump in horsepower numbers. Currently, the Cup cars run about 670 horsepower, but Wallace suggests raising that figure closer to 750 or even higher to effectively revive the quality of racing.

“I mean, we’re 670 now, right?”

Wallace said during a media session in Nashville.

“I think if you go in small increments, it’s just like sticking a Band-Aid on something. I’m not asking for [900] but 750 at least, or higher, just to see if it’s as easy and somewhat cost-efficient as they’re saying, and I think I’m reading the comments right, then why not?”

He further proposed a direct test of increased power at upcoming short track events, urging NASCAR and drivers to experiment boldly rather than approaching changes cautiously.

“Have a test, no, not even a test. Why don’t we all just show up somewhere, wherever our next short track is, and give it more horsepower? If it’s a shitshow, then go from there. But you’re going to get a 720 package, and one driver is going to be like, ‘Oh, I thought it was pretty good! We’re done! Good job!’ No, that’s not the case. So, we need big moves here. What are we scared of?”

Wallace said.

Other Drivers Share Support for Power Boost

Wallace’s opinion resonates among several NASCAR competitors who see more horsepower as a way to inject energy back into the sport. Joey Logano, a respected Cup Series driver, acknowledged agreement with Wallace’s perspective but emphasized that the size of the increase matters.

“I don’t think it’s going to be game changing, but I do think it’s the right way. … If we’re adding back to 950 hp, I’m going to answer different. If we’re talking about adding 60-70 hp… ehh,”

Logano stated, suggesting that more substantial horsepower gains could have a more meaningful impact on racing quality.

Potential Impact and Next Steps for NASCAR

The call for increased horsepower is gaining traction as NASCAR evaluates the Next Gen Car’s performance and fan interest since its 2022 introduction. With drivers like Bubba Wallace vocal about the need for bigger changes rather than minor tweaks, the sport faces pressure to adapt in order to maintain excitement and competitiveness on the track.

If NASCAR chooses to raise engine power significantly, it could lead to more dynamic racing, greater passing opportunities, and a return to driver-centric competition reminiscent of earlier eras. Testing bigger horsepower packages at select events may serve as an experimental step toward that goal. Ultimately, how NASCAR balances power, cost, and competition will shape the future of its premier series and influence fan engagement.