NASCAR is set to introduce aerodynamic modifications to all Cup Series cars for this Sunday’s Round of 12 playoff race at Talladega Superspeedway, as announced on Tuesday. These changes are being implemented to enhance safety by reducing the likelihood of cars becoming airborne during high-speed incidents on the 2.66-mile track.
One of the key additions includes an extended-height roof rail. This rail, measuring 2 inches, will be made of polycarbonate and positioned on the right side of the roof. Its purpose is to redirect air as the car slides sideways, preventing lift-off by guiding airflow across the vehicle. The rail will also feature two bevels designed to allow air to flow through and trigger the roof flaps. These flaps deploy to help stabilize the car and keep it grounded in the event of a spin.
Additionally, the right-side roof flap will include a newly designed fabric element that acts like a parachute. This fabric is triangular in shape, with one side attached directly to the roof flap and the other fastened to the vehicle’s roof, or “greenhouse.” The fabric will be bolted into place to ensure it functions properly. This setup is intended to further reduce the risk of a car getting airborne by creating drag when the car is spinning.
Another significant change involves the rocker box, which is located beneath the center of the vehicle. A new aluminum extension will be added to this component, filling the gap between the car’s floor and the ground. This extension will be required to be painted black and will sit flat against the bottom of the rocker box. By closing the space underneath the car, this modification aims to improve stability at high speeds.
These aerodynamic updates are set to be in effect for the upcoming YellaWood 500, which will take place on Sunday at 2 p.m. ET. The race, held at Talladega Superspeedway, marks the second event in the Round of 12 in the NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs and will be broadcast on NBC, MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, and the NBC Sports App.
The modifications are part of NASCAR’s ongoing efforts to improve driver safety on superspeedways like Talladega, where high-speed accidents can have serious consequences. By reducing the risk of cars going airborne, these changes aim to make racing safer without compromising the excitement fans have come to expect from the sport.
NASCAR to implement Drastic changes ahead of Talladega playoff race……..see more
