Chase Elliott, the 2020 Cup Series champion, offered valuable insights to NASCAR on how to handle the ongoing debate about engine power. Since the introduction of the Next-Gen car in 2022, the sport has struggled to deliver exciting races on short tracks. Many drivers have called on NASCAR to increase engine power in order to improve racing and create more passing opportunities. Elliott, with his extensive technical knowledge and racing experience, expressed his opinion on the matter and proposed a unique solution.
As the driver of the No. 9 Chevy, Elliott has a level of expertise that few others in the Cup pit can match when it comes to engines. Growing up in a racing family, he witnessed firsthand his father, a former Cup champion, building engines for NASCAR. Elliott suggests that the best way to address the issue is to remove the regulations around the 7th generation car, which currently make it difficult to produce efficient engines. By doing so, NASCAR can encourage the development of reliable engines that can meet the sport’s demands.
In a recent statement, Elliott shared his perspective on the impact that a change in NASCAR’s stance on engine power could have. While he acknowledges that such a change is unlikely, he highlights the potential effects on tire wear and racing in general. The 28-year-old driver emphasizes that current engines, with their reliance on homologated parts, are inefficient and do not maximize available power. This inefficiency is further exacerbated by the increasing importance of turbulent air and downforce-generating flaps, which have negatively impacted races in recent years.
Next-gen cars are known for their high fuel consumption and disappointing power output. This has resulted in engines that struggle to meet the demands of the current era. In light of this, Elliott proposed a solution to address this persistent issue. By removing certain components from the engine compartment, engines can be optimized and subjected to less stress throughout races. Currently, a typical NASCAR engine only lasts for two races before needing to be replaced.
Chase Elliott’s technical expertise and unique perspective on the engine power debate offer valuable insights for NASCAR. His suggestion to remove regulations around the 7th generation car and optimize engine performance could potentially lead to more exciting and sustainable races in the future.
