Joey Logano has called for a significant increase in NASCAR horsepower, emphasizing the need for substantial changes rather than minor adjustments. The push comes amid growing dissatisfaction among drivers and fans with the current Next Gen Car’s performance.
Drivers Seek More Power Amid Next Gen Car Criticism
The introduction of the Next Gen Car aimed to modernize NASCAR by opening manufacturing to multiple companies and improving performance. However, despite its streamlined design, many drivers feel the car lacks the horsepower required for an exciting and competitive racing experience. This has sparked demands for NASCAR to reconsider engine power going forward.
Joey Logano, one of the sport’s leading drivers, has been outspoken about increasing horsepower significantly rather than making incremental changes. Rather than a slight power bump, he prefers a restored horsepower level that could reshape the dynamics of racing on the track.
Joey Logano Advocates for a Substantial Horsepower Increase
Logano stressed the importance of a big leap in horsepower rather than a marginal increase, stating,
“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,”
—Joey Logano, NASCAR driver
This perspective reflects a desire to bring back more power to cars, allowing drivers more control and potentially increasing the excitement and unpredictability during races.
Bubba Wallace Supports Significant Changes to Car Performance
Fellow NASCAR driver Bubba Wallace has also voiced agreement with the need for a major horsepower boost, describing how increased power would restore driver influence over races. He explained,
“I think that would, you know, put it back in the driver’s hands a lot,”
—Bubba Wallace, NASCAR driver
He elaborated on how the current cars and shifting mechanisms limit passing opportunities, making tracks more competitive but less thrilling. According to Wallace, horsepower can bring back the traditional feel of racing, enhancing driver skill and control:
“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.”
—Bubba Wallace, NASCAR driver
Calls for Bold Action Rather Than Incremental Adjustments
Wallace pointed out that making small increases in horsepower is ineffective, likening it to applying a Band-Aid to a bigger issue. He encouraged NASCAR to implement a considerable boost, proposing at least 750 horsepower to observe its impact on racing.
He suggested a bold approach to testing the changes:
“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?”
—Bubba Wallace, NASCAR driver
Potential Changes Could Impact NASCAR’s Competitive Landscape
As NASCAR considers increasing horsepower, drivers like Logano and Wallace warn against half-measures. Their calls highlight a need to reinvigorate the sport’s competitive spirit by empowering drivers with more powerful vehicles.
Adding horsepower could change race strategies and the overall excitement level for fans by creating more overtaking opportunities and restoring driver skill as a prominent factor. NASCAR’s response to these demands could influence the direction of car design and racing rules in upcoming seasons, shaping the future of the sport.