As NASCAR explores the possibility of raising horsepower limits on short track engines, many Cup drivers are showing support for the idea, though with some reservations. Currently capped at 670 horsepower, engine power could increase to a range between 720 and 750 horsepower, aiming to enhance passing opportunities during races. Some drivers have advocated for even higher figures, with suggestions reaching up to 800 horsepower or more.
Chase Elliott Highlights the Challenge of Manufacturer Consensus
Chase Elliott, the 2020 NASCAR Cup Series champion, emphasized that gaining agreement among the three engine manufacturers—Chevrolet, Ford, and Toyota—is critical to any horsepower increase. Elliott mentioned at an event in Nashville that the manufacturers’ willingness to accept changes will determine whether power boosts are feasible without sacrificing engine durability and reliability.
I think it’d be worth a shot if the engine manufacturers are willing to do it,
Elliott said this weekend in Nashville. They’re going to dictate how much power we can give the current packages that we have and still have the longevity and the reliability we expect to have.
He added that each manufacturer tends to favor different performance levels, which complicates efforts to find a uniform solution.
Throughout my career, it’s like Chevrolet might want one thing, Toyota might want something else, and Ford might want something different. And everybody kind of plays to their strengths as to what they think they have their leg up on. That’s just a game,
he explained.
For a horsepower increase to proceed, Elliott believes full consensus is necessary but acknowledges it will be challenging.
So you’re going to have to get all of them to agree, which in my view, is going to be a difficult thing to do. But hopefully they can, and everybody’s willing to give it a shot somewhere just to see if it makes a difference. It might not do anything, but it might really help. And until you try, I don’t know that you really have an answer,
Elliott concluded.
Broader Driver Support for More Power on Short Tracks
Other drivers, including Bubba Wallace, Josh Berry, and AJ Allmendinger, have also voiced their enthusiasm for increasing horsepower, expressing hope that changes will come in the near future. Their shared sentiment reflects a desire for more competitive and dynamic racing on short tracks.
The Impact and Future of Short Track Horsepower Adjustments
If NASCAR proceeds with the horsepower increase, it could lead to more exciting races with improved passing chances. However, success depends heavily on collaboration among Chevrolet, Ford, and Toyota to establish an agreed-upon power level that maintains engine longevity. The coming months will be critical in determining whether this change advances, with drivers and manufacturers watching closely for the next steps.
