Elton Sawyer discusses increasing NASCAR Cup Series horsepower as he addresses the ongoing debate within the organization about whether to boost the power of Cup Series vehicles. On a recent radio appearance, Sawyer revealed that these discussions are becoming more prominent among NASCAR leadership, drivers, and fans, raising questions about the future direction of the sport.
Debate Over Raising Horsepower Intensifies
NASCAR Senior Vice President of Competition, Elton Sawyer, recently appeared on the Sirius XM NASCAR Radio Show, The Morning Drive, to address public speculation about increasing horsepower in the Cup Series. According to details shared by show co-host Mike Bagley, Sawyer confirmed that the topic remains a regular point of discussion behind the scenes. The conversation about raising the output of NextGen cars builds upon growing calls for change from both drivers and racing analysts.
Currently, Cup Series cars deliver 670 horsepower—a figure that has become a focal point of controversy in the racing community. The debate gained momentum when former driver Kevin Harvick, on his podcast Kevin Harvick’s Happy Hour, called for a dramatic increase.
“I still think it’s got to have more than 1,000 horsepower,” Harvick said. —Kevin Harvick, Former NASCAR Cup Series Driver
Three-time Cup Series champion Joey Logano also weighed in, suggesting that an increase in power would enhance various aspects of racing and deliver a better on-track product.
“We want more power,” Logano said. “It increases tire wear. It makes the track wider. And it’s more badass.” [via Fox Sports] —Joey Logano, NASCAR Cup Series Champion
Concerns Over Cost and Competition
While some advocate for more horsepower, others within NASCAR have expressed concerns about the implications. In 2024, NASCAR’s Chief Racing Development Officer, John Probst, highlighted potential drawbacks. According to Probst, increasing horsepower would raise operational costs, and it may not necessarily lead to closer races or improved excitement for spectators.
“If you add the horsepower, you add the cost, then you see if it is better,” Probst said. “There’s no guarantee you get there, and it would be any better. And I think there’s some evidence that shows as we add horsepower, they run further apart.” —John Probst, NASCAR Chief Racing Development Officer
The current generation of Cup Series engines has less power compared to previous editions, which reached up to 750 horsepower. This reduction in horsepower was intended to enhance competitive balance, but some observers question whether the change has achieved the desired effect.
Mixed Reactions from NASCAR Fans
News of Sawyer’s comments quickly spread, with Mike Bagley sharing the update on his X (formerly Twitter) account. Fans responded with a wide range of opinions on whether more horsepower is the solution the series needs. Some expressed impatience with NASCAR’s wait-and-see approach:
“Then. 👏 Why. 👏 Hasn’t. 👏 It. 👏Happened. 👏 Yet. 👏”
“Stop discussing and just do it. Especially at the short tracks,” a fan wrote.
“They’ve also said months ago the change to 750 could happen over night yet we still are waiting. But the fact they are admitting it’s still on the table I’ll consider a win,” another said.
However, several fans pushed back on the idea that simply increasing horsepower would resolve the problems with on-track competition.
“Not needed. What was wrong with sundays race? I feel like fans have a pre-conceived notion that’s it’s the fix all. What’s going to happen to the aerodynamics? The physical handling? It’ll change it. Might ruin what we have which is great. Sorry. But it’s not heat everyone”
“It takes more than HP to fix this s**t,” a fan said.
“HP isn’t fixing the air problem, just allows the trailing car to recover their momentum a little quicker,” another replied.
What’s Next for NASCAR and the Horsepower Question?
With divergent views from drivers, officials, and fans, the debate around raising Cup Series horsepower shows no signs of resolution. NASCAR’s leadership is weighing the benefits of a more powerful engine against increased expenses and potential impacts on competition. As discussions continue, the Cup Series is unlikely to implement any changes for the current season. However, with ongoing attention from prominent names like Elton Sawyer, Kevin Harvick, Joey Logano, and John Probst, any future update to Cup Series regulations could signal a new era in NASCAR racing.
