Bubba Wallace, the driver for 23XI Racing, insists that now is an ideal moment for NASCAR to increase the horsepower of its Cup Series vehicles. He notes that with expanded coverage on Prime Video, NASCAR has a unique opportunity to make a bold move by enhancing the power in the Next Gen cars, aiming to revitalize the racing experience.
Wallace strongly supports a horsepower boost, especially since current short track races lack sufficient excitement. He points out that North Wilkesboro is virtually the only multi-groove short track left on the schedule, limiting passing opportunities and overall racing dynamics.
Speaking from Nashville, Wallace outlined his reasons for desiring more horsepower, emphasizing the benefits it would bring back to the drivers themselves.
I think that would, you know, put it back in the driver’s hands a lot,
Wallace said.
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.
Both fans and drivers have been vocal about increasing horsepower, and NASCAR appears to be considering the change. Elton Sawyer confirmed ongoing discussions regarding potential adjustments to engine power.
Wallace Advocates for a Significant Horsepower Increase, Not Small Steps
When questioned about the desired horsepower level, Wallace was clear that incremental changes won’t solve the fundamental issue. Currently, Cup cars run around 670 horsepower, but he believes a more substantial increase is necessary to bring excitement back.
I mean, we’re 670 now, right?
Wallace remarked.
I think if you go in small increments, it’s just like sticking a Band-Aid on something. I’m not asking for [900] but 750 at least, or higher, just to see if it’s as easy and somewhat cost-efficient as they’re saying, and I think I’m reading the comments right, then why not?
Wallace suggested a direct trial in an actual race environment rather than limited tests, to evaluate how increased power would affect competition.
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?
Recent NASCAR Tests Highlight Need for Full-Field Horsepower Trials
NASCAR has attempted various on-track tests in recent years, including tweaks to tires, splitters, and aerodynamics. However, these experiments typically involve only a handful of teams, limiting the reliability of results during full races with 40 cars. Wallace emphasizes that a more comprehensive test involving the entire field is necessary to understand the true impact of horsepower increases.
Wallace Pressures NASCAR to Embrace Change and ‘Ruffle Feathers’
Over the past decade, NASCAR has gradually reduced horsepower, moving away from the 1000HP levels seen in previous years due to cost and engine durability concerns. However, Wallace argues the sport has reached a tipping point and should now push power higher to reinvigorate racing excitement.
We’ve been saying it for years, we want more horsepower, and we’ve always been told we’re waiting on other manufacturers to come in and they ain’t in!
Wallace said.
So, let’s do something. Yeah, we need to think. We have all the momentum on our side with our sport right now, right? I think bringing something exciting, I think they need to look at it from an exciting standpoint than a worrying standpoint.
With Dodge returning to NASCAR, initially in the Truck Series and later in the Cup Series, Wallace notes that the manufacturer is bringing back the Hemi engine, while GM has invested $888 million to build its Next-Gen V-8. These developments strengthen the case for increasing horsepower.
Addressing his mention of momentum, Wallace elaborated with a hint of humor and provocation.
Oh, come on, that sounded good, don’t make me explain that! I’m somewhat talking shit about them [NASCAR] being scared, saying ‘We’ve got momentum on our side,’ so I’m trying to cover my ass! … I think from, I believe all the reports from the first race on Prime [Video] is solid, all the stats, right? Viewership was good. I loved the post-race stuff; that was really cool.
We’re just bringing in all these different media partners, and there’s a lot of traction for the sport. The number one thing the drivers are saying is ‘horsepower.’ Let’s just follow that, one week, just one week. Then we can go right back to their comfort zone, you know? I think we’re in a spot in society where we’re scared to step out. We don’t want to ruffle any feathers. Well, it’s time to ruffle some feathers, let’s see what we got.
Wallace’s Push Reflects Growing Demand for a More Competitive Cup Series
Wallace’s calls to increase horsepower are grounded in a belief that greater power will enhance driver control, create more passing opportunities, and inject excitement into the Cup Series at a time when tight racing has many fans and drivers frustrated. The push aligns with broader shifts in the sport, including new manufacturer involvement and expanded media exposure on platforms like Prime Video.
If NASCAR heeds Wallace’s urging, the next short track race could serve as a testing ground for horsepower upgrades, potentially setting a precedent for the season. This move could mark a significant turning point, refreshing competition and attracting even more viewers to the sport.
