Rick Hendrick on GM NASCAR stepped into the spotlight this week as confirmation arrived that General Motors has finalized a fresh body design for the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series. The game-changing update follows the Chevy ZL1’s final appearance at Phoenix Raceway, signaling a significant shift for Hendrick Motorsports, General Motors, and the broader NASCAR Cup Series.
Anticipation is high within the racing community, as few details have surfaced regarding the body’s shape or specifications. According to recent statements, however, the development process is complete, and NASCAR has verified that the new General Motors body is ready for rollout in the 2026 season.
Rick Hendrick Expresses Cautious Optimism About the New Car
Team owner Rick Hendrick has voiced enthusiasm alongside prudent expectations for the upcoming car. In conversation with Bob Pockrass, Hendrick explained the collaborative effort behind the design, stating,
“Our guys, along with GM have been working on this,”
—Rick Hendrick, Owner, Hendrick Motorsports. He notes that the changes are designed to provide performance improvements and to create something more competitive with rival manufacturers, as he adds,
“It’s supposedly better than what we got. Closer to what Toyota and Ford have.”
—Rick Hendrick, Owner, Hendrick Motorsports.
Reflecting on the development arms race, Hendrick commented,
“They had a shot at the apple. Taking our car and getting their car better.”
—Rick Hendrick, Owner, Hendrick Motorsports. He remains realistic about the transition, cautioning that adaptation will be required, saying,
“So next year, I mean, we gotta learn the car. It wont be perfect right out of the gate.”
—Rick Hendrick, Owner, Hendrick Motorsports.
Performance Upgrades and Testing Ahead for NASCAR Teams
Looking ahead, NASCAR will introduce increased horsepower at tracks under one mile in length next season. Tests for this updated powertrain package are scheduled imminently, representing an early opportunity for teams to adjust to technical changes. Hendrick expressed his excitement for these developments, saying,
“I’m super excited about more power. And I’m excited about having a new car that we can work with that’s got more down force.”
—Rick Hendrick, Owner, Hendrick Motorsports.
While some details are still to be revealed, expectations within the garage are that the new Chevy body will break cover soon. As the NASCAR Cup Series evolves, all eyes will be on Hendrick Motorsports, General Motors, and their competitors as the implications of these changes begin to unfold on the track.
I haven't seen it but with some upcoming tests of the ECU and horsepower for next year, would expect new Chevy body will be revealed soon. Here is Rick Hendrick on the change: https://t.co/r0IOpm3ZRM pic.twitter.com/6mY9fvytbj
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) November 6, 2025
