NASCAR is expected to implement a modified Cup Series rules package for short tracks and road courses this season.
Following a two-day test last month at Phoenix Raceway, a fairly last-minute effort to improve the racing product on those track types, the Sanctioning Body has presented to teams a reduced downforce configuration to debut at some point this season.
The test and changes were deemed necessary after the Gen-7 platform underperformed as a result of turbulence and increased mechanical grip. In plain terms, passing proved to be a challenge on heavy braking tracks due to ‘dirty air’ and increased corner speeds.
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NASCAR took the data from the test back to its Research and Development center in Concord, North Carolina and crafted an update that would not require the purchase of any new parts and components — an important distinction because the entire selling point of the Next Gen was its cost-fixed and spec nature.
The key rules changes alongside the standardized 670 horsepower target are as follows:
- A 2″ spoiler down from the 4″ spoiler utilized last season
- Removing the center three rear diffuser strakes
- Removing engine strakes
- Adding 1″ additional splitter stuffer than used on short tracks and road courses last season
WHAT ARE THE CHANGES DESIGNED TO DO?
The rules update is designed to reduce underbody efficiency as opposed to external downforce levels. Much of what is believed to have ailed the Gen-7 on short tracks and road courses last season is tremendous efficiency created by its completely sealed underbody.
Certainly, the wider tires and larger brakes created a greater degree of mechanical grip as well, but the underbody created a tremendous amount of aerodynamic grip last year. In other words, when a car followed another into the corner, the trailing car was subjected to a wall of air that pushed it up the track.
These changes are designed to incrementally reduced the underbody efficiency alongside a little bit of external downforce reductions via the shorter spoiler. It’s going to make the car harder to drive but hopefully easier for a trailing car to following a leading one, while also making it less planted in the corners.
Team owners are reluctant to purchase any new components for rule changes and these rules will only ask teams to remove certain parts.
WHAT EXACTLY ARE THE CHANGES?
This graphic from NBC Sports last…
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