The NASCAR Next–Gen car, introduced in 2022, has sparked a continuing debate among top figures in the sport, including prominent drivers like Kyle Larson and Dale Earnhardt Jr. Designed to modernize the Cup Series with features such as independent rear suspension, composite bodies, low-profile tires, and a symmetrical chassis, the Gen 7 car aims to reduce costs, create a more level playing field, and update racing technology. However, opinions remain sharply divided over whether it has improved the quality and excitement of NASCAR races.
Supporters argue that the Next–Gen car has generated closer competition and increased the number of teams capable of winning. On the other hand, critics claim that it has eliminated important aspects like tire wear, braking differences, and strategic variety, which were hallmarks of thrilling races in the past.
Dale Earnhardt Jr. Expresses Strong Doubts About the Car’s Racing Quality
Kyle Larson has emerged as one of the Next–Gen car’s most successful drivers, amassing 16 wins since its debut and boasting strong performances including three wins, 14 top-10 finishes, and a pole position this season alone, placing him fifth in the Cup Series standings. Larson praises the vehicle’s feel and competitive nature, but Earnhardt Jr. openly challenges that optimistic view.
I don’t know, man. I mean, Kyle’s… Kyle has—uh, Kyle… I really, really respect Kyle. Think the world of him. Um, and I appreciate his opinion but I would just disagree that the car doesn’t produce what I expect,
Dale Earnhardt Jr. said during The Dale Jr. Download podcast.
Again, going back to 75 years… I know Kyle’s been around a long time. The car doesn’t produce the kind of racing that I know we are capable of at road courses and short tracks,
he added.
The car does not produce the type of racing that I think should be our standard and I know what we’re capable of at road courses and short tracks. And I would not stop at trying to achieve amazing, great racing at those style of tracks until we achieved it. I wouldn’t stop trying to get there. And I don’t think we’re there. And I think it’s mainly due to the racecar. Right.
Contrasting Views on Racing Style and Vehicle Performance
Dale Earnhardt Jr. emphasizes that his concerns extend beyond simple statistics or wins; he focuses on the quality and style of racing the Next–Gen car produces. He has long argued that the new vehicle feels more like a sports car than a traditional stock car, citing design elements such as the diffuser, wider tires, and larger brakes that have reduced tire degradation and limited strategic diversity during races.
Meanwhile, Kyle Larson views the Next–Gen car as a competitive and enjoyable platform that offers entertaining racing. Though their perspectives differ, both acknowledge the importance of continued evaluation and potential refinement, especially when it comes to short tracks and road courses, known for delivering the sport’s most engaging contests.
Implications for the Future of NASCAR Racing
The ongoing disagreement between Earnhardt Jr. and Larson highlights the broader challenge NASCAR faces in balancing innovation with tradition. While the Next–Gen car fulfills goals related to cost savings and technological advancement, debates about race quality suggest further adjustments may be needed to satisfy drivers and fans alike. As the Cup Series progresses, the perspectives of influential figures such as those from Hendrick Motorsports and other teams are likely to shape discussions on how the vehicle evolves to enhance competitiveness and excitement on the track.