Chase Elliott recently expressed his views on NASCAR’s consideration to boost horsepower in Next Gen engines for the Cup Series, where current stock cars produce up to 670 hp. This potential increase is being discussed to enhance racing excitement, particularly on short tracks, reflecting growing interest from fans and insiders.
Elton Sawyer confirmed that NASCAR is indeed exploring the idea of raising engine power to make short-track racing more competitive. Ahead of the Nashville race, Elliott was asked about his perspective on this plan and what level of horsepower enhancement would be meaningful.
Elliott’s Perspective on Potential Engine Power Increases
Chase Elliott acknowledged that he is not fully informed about precise horsepower figures or the range being considered for the Next Gen cars. However, he emphasized that if engine manufacturers agree to increase power within the existing framework, it could be worth trying.
“I’m not super in-tune with what those numbers are or like what’s being talked about as far, as how far they want to go with it. So I don’t know that I’m super educated on kind of what’s possible, what’s even true or not true. I think it’d be worth a shot, you know, if the engine manufacturers are willing to do it,” Elliott said [8:23 onwards].
Elliott pointed out that the final decision on horsepower levels depends heavily on the manufacturers, who must balance increasing power with maintaining engine longevity and reliability. The current Next Gen engine packages are designed to endure multiple uses, which limits how much power can be realistically added.
“And that’s probably going to be a question for them, truthfully, because 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 because I think we have to run them three times,” he added.
The driver explained that any modifications to add horsepower would have to fit within the existing Next Gen regulations without requiring a complete overhaul. Achieving consensus among Chevrolet, Toyota, and Ford on an acceptable horsepower number could be challenging given their different approaches and competitive strategies.
Elliott reflected on how these manufacturers rarely align perfectly, as each tries to maximize performance in its own way. Despite this, he remains optimistic that they will find common ground to implement a change.
He cautioned that increasing horsepower “might not do anything,” but it could also significantly impact racing quality, noting that the true effect will only be clear once such adjustments are tested on track.
Chase Elliott Reflects on Racing Experience at Michigan International Speedway
With three top-five and six top-ten finishes at Michigan, Chase Elliott has solid experience at this key track on the Cup calendar. Michigan International Speedway is also a notable venue for Chevrolet, whose parent company, General Motors, is based in the state.
Elliott described Michigan as the “most consistent” racetrack he has encountered during his career, highlighting its enduring characteristics despite seasonal challenges.
“Yeah, for sure. It’s always good to go to Michigan (International Speedway) and have a good run. It’s certainly changed a lot, you know, over the years, just with how the cars have changed. But the racetrack itself is like the most consistent place I’ve ever seen for, for a racetrack that has those hard winters. It just doesn’t seem to get old, which is kind of crazy,” Elliott said [7:19 onwards].
He encouraged fans to visit Michigan in the summer, noting its appeal and significance for the team. Elliott acknowledged the strong support from General Motors, which plays an important role for him and his crew at this venue.
The Implications of a Horsepower Boost for NASCAR’s Future
The discussion around increasing horsepower in Next Gen engines reflects NASCAR’s ongoing effort to enhance the competitiveness and spectacle of its races. If manufacturers agree and the increase maintains engine reliability, the change could improve racing on short tracks and possibly at other venues.
Chase Elliott’s insights show a cautious but hopeful approach, recognizing the potential benefits while understanding the technical constraints involved. The impact of any horsepower adjustments will become clearer only after real-world testing, but the proposal has generated interest among drivers, teams, and fans alike.
