Brad Keselowski NASCAR horsepower discussions have intensified as the NASCAR Next-Gen cars race into their third season with ongoing challenges. Since their launch in 2022, the Gen 7 vehicles have faced criticism for lacking power and grip, prompting Keselowski, a prominent figure from RFK Racing, to call for increasing their horsepower to more than 750. NASCAR is planning to raise the power output to address these concerns and enhance racing quality as early as next season.
Plans to Boost Horsepower in NASCAR’s Next-Gen Cars
The Next-Gen cars currently have a base horsepower rating of 670, significantly lower than the previous generation’s figures, leading to dissatisfaction among drivers in the NASCAR Cup Series. Despite the official number, cars often run closer to 690 horsepower on the track, but this still leaves the vehicles feeling underpowered and less responsive. Brad Keselowski has been vocal about these shortcomings and recently revealed that NASCAR intends to adjust the rules to permit approximately 740 to 750 horsepower for the Gen 7 racecars moving forward.
Keselowski cautioned that while this increase might seem moderate, it represents a meaningful step toward restoring the racing excitement and driver satisfaction that many feel has been lost. The power boost is expected to tighten competition and improve on-track action, potentially revitalizing fan engagement and the sport’s overall appeal going into the upcoming season.
“Well, you know, it looks like NASCAR is going to change the rules next year to where we’re like 740, 750 [horsepower], It’s not quite 100, because, you know, right now, technically, they’re at 670, but realistically, they’re like 685, 690, so.”
Brad Keselowski said on the Stacking Pennies Podcast.
How Low Horsepower Affects Tire Performance and Racing Strategy
One of the critical issues linked to reduced horsepower in the Next-Gen cars has been increased tire wear, a factor that has complicated race management. Keselowski emphasized his strong support for greater horsepower, explaining that having more power helps drivers better manage their tires by demanding more precise throttle control. This is especially crucial on demanding circuits like Bristol, where tire degradation is already a significant challenge due to the track’s steep banking.
According to Keselowski, younger drivers have struggled with tire conservation because they have less experience handling vehicles that require delicate throttle application. By increasing horsepower, NASCAR can enable drivers to approach racing with improved finesse, thereby reducing tire wear and enhancing competition throughout longer stints on the track.
“I am definitely team horsepower. You know, you look at races like Bristol where the tires wore and you couldn’t do that, and I was like, ‘Oh, these guys are in a heap of trouble.’ You know, particularly the younger drivers that never had to drive anything that required throttle control, they just, you know, burn them off.”
Brad Keselowski noted.
Implications for NASCAR’s Future and Driver Feedback
NASCAR appears committed to listening more attentively to driver feedback and making technical adjustments to improve the Next-Gen car experience. Brad Keselowski’s continuous advocacy for higher horsepower and better handling reflects a broader push within the sport to balance safety, performance, and entertainment. The planned horsepower increase is poised to address several criticisms levied against the Gen 7 cars and may mark the beginning of a series of enhancements designed to reconnect fans and competitors with the high-octane racing the series is known for.
As NASCAR moves forward, its willingness to implement such rule changes indicates hope for a revitalized season where power, driver skill, and tire management all play pivotal roles. Keselowski’s efforts to influence these developments suggest he will remain a key voice shaping the sport’s direction in the years ahead.
