Shane van Gisbergen has quickly established himself as one of NASCAR’s most formidable road course competitors during the 2023 season. The New Zealand driver, racing full-time with Trackhouse Racing, stunned fans by winning the inaugural NASCAR street race in Chicago on his debut, and he recently secured his third road course victory this year at Sonoma, reinforcing his exceptional skill on these demanding circuits. His growing reputation highlights his impressive Shane van Gisbergen NASCAR road dominance.
Despite his rapid success on road courses, van Gisbergen faces challenges on oval tracks, the traditional staple of NASCAR racing. While he continues to adapt to these different types of circuits, his early results on ovals have lagged behind his road course performance. Still, his progress shows promise as he gains experience in the series and works to improve his competitiveness across all venues.
Van Gisbergen’s Candid Views on Electric Vehicles in Racing
Off the track, van Gisbergen recently shared his straightforward opinions about electric vehicles during an episode of the Stacking Pennies podcast. When asked about EVs, he delivered a humorous and blunt response, stating,
“Good to fall asleep to, when you’re watching the races,”
—Shane van Gisbergen, NASCAR Driver
Though he respects the advancements in electric technology, van Gisbergen expressed a clear preference for the sound and power of NASCAR’s traditional V8 engines. Having spent the majority of his racing career behind the wheel of powerful V8 cars, including his championship-winning performances in the Australian V8 Supercars series, he values those engines for the visceral racing experience they provide.
He also shared his reservations about hybrid powertrains, revealing that he favors sticking to gasoline-fueled V8s. For many motorsport enthusiasts like him, the roar and physical feedback of a V8 engine are central to what makes racing thrilling and authentic.
Why Fans Appreciate Van Gisbergen’s Honest Personality
Fans admire van Gisbergen not only for his on-track achievements but also for his genuine and unapologetic attitude. Unlike many drivers who might embrace new trends insincerely, he openly embraces his identity as a passionate petrolhead and racer rooted in traditional motorsport values. This authenticity resonates strongly with long-time racing enthusiasts and motorheads who share his enthusiasm for classic racing machines.
In an era where hybrids and electric power are increasingly common in motorsports, van Gisbergen‘s perspective offers a passionate voice for those who cherish the sport’s heritage. With NASCAR’s upcoming race at Watkins Glen, another road course where van Gisbergen has historically excelled, fans eagerly anticipate whether he will continue his streak and claim a fourth road course victory this season.
As Shane van Gisbergen continues to showcase his NASCAR road dominance, his blend of raw talent and candid commentary is shaping him into one of the most compelling figures in modern motorsport.