The NASCAR Xfinity Series is often celebrated as the perfect blend of traditional stock car racing, known for its live axle suspension, narrower tires, and unique power-to-weight ratio. This raw and thrilling racing format has captured the hearts of fans. However, recent comments from NASCAR President Steve Phelps during a Race Industry Week webinar suggest that changes to the iconic Xfinity car may be on the horizon.
Not all fans are pleased with this prospect. While Phelps framed the updates as part of the sport’s evolution, many worry these adjustments could compromise the series’ authenticity, sparking considerable backlash.
Phelps hinted at significant changes for both the Xfinity and Truck Series, emphasizing collaboration with manufacturers, teams, and other stakeholders. He stressed that NASCAR aims to modernize while preserving the series’ core appeal. However, given the Xfinity car’s symbolic status as a cornerstone of NASCAR tradition, many fear that these updates could dilute what makes the series special.
During the webinar, Phelps discussed NASCAR’s ongoing efforts to align its vehicles with the changing automotive landscape. “We’ll continue to fine-tune what that car is,” he said, signaling that updates are inevitable. Though details remain unclear, he underscored NASCAR’s commitment to working closely with manufacturers, Goodyear, and race teams, as well as exploring opportunities with potential new entrants to the series.
“It’s not just, ‘Hey NASCAR’s going to do this,’” Phelps explained. “It really is working with our partners, including manufacturers, Goodyear, and teams.” The possibility of new manufacturers entering the series—such as Hyundai, a rumored contender—adds another layer of intrigue. Changes like the potential introduction of hybrid engines could further modernize the series while aligning with global sustainability trends. The Xfinity Series, known for its unpredictable and daring young talent, could serve as a testing ground for these innovations.
The timing of these announcements coincides with a major shift in NASCAR’s media landscape. Starting in 2025, the Xfinity Series will air exclusively on The CW, part of a broader effort to expand its audience. However, this broadcasting change adds to the uncertainty for fans already wary of the series’ evolving identity.
Unsurprisingly, these potential changes have been met with strong opposition from Xfinity Series enthusiasts, who view the car as a symbol of NASCAR’s unfiltered racing heritage. For many, the idea of innovation risks undermining the authenticity they value most.
