NASCAR’s recent push toward electric vehicles (EVs) has sparked heated discussions among fans. In July 2024, the organization unveiled a groundbreaking battery-powered prototype at the Chicago street race, signaling its commitment to decarbonize the sport and achieve net-zero emissions by 2035. However, the announcement has left the NASCAR community divided, with many questioning whether EVs belong in the high-octane world of stock car racing.
The latest buzz came from a Reddit post by NASCAR, revealing that Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) are already designing and submitting EV body prototypes. Notably, Chevrolet is reportedly developing a new body for the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season. NASCAR’s post read:
“Apparently, the new EV car is far enough along in development that manufacturers are making and submitting body designs to NASCAR. The 2026 Chevy Cup body is well on its way also.”
Fan reactions poured in, and not all were positive. One user bluntly stated, “Nobody asked for this,” capturing the sentiment of those who see the shift as unnecessary. Others were quick to share their skepticism, with comments like, “Can’t wait for pit stops to go from 9 seconds to 30 minutes!” and, “RIP NASCAR 1949-2024.”
Despite the backlash, NASCAR remains focused on its vision. The new EV prototype, developed in collaboration with OEMs and ABB, boasts a staggering 1000 kilowatts of power (about 1300 horsepower). But its debut wasn’t flawless. During a test drive at Martinsville Speedway, NASCAR driver David Ragan found the car to be slower than its gasoline counterpart by “two-tenths of a second” per lap. Ragan’s feedback fueled further doubts about EVs’ competitiveness in traditional racing.
According to C.J. Tobin, NASCAR’s Senior Engineer of Vehicle Systems, the initiative isn’t about dethroning gas-powered cars. “The push for electric vehicles is continuing to grow,” Tobin said. “We wanted to showcase our ability to put an electric stock car on the track. It’s another way for OEMs to demonstrate their innovation to the public.”
Still, NASCAR clarified that it’s not planning an all-electric series like Formula E. Instead, the organization aims to integrate environmentally friendly practices without compromising the essence of stock car racing. While the debate continues, one thing is clear: NASCAR’s EV journey is just getting started, and it’s bound to keep fans talking.
