During a recent episode of the Petty Family Racing podcast, Kyle Petty defended the controversial NASCAR Next Generation car, emphasizing that there is no singular solution to the concerns raised by fans and drivers. His comments came in the wake of the regular season finale held at Daytona International Speedway on September 30, 2023, where discussions about the car’s performance reached new heights.
Kyle Petty’s Perspective on the Current Car
In a candid exchange with NASCAR Hall of Fame members Richard Petty and his cousin, longtime crew chief Dale Inman, Kyle Petty acknowledged the significant departure of the Next Gen car from traditional stock car designs. “This is as far away from a stock car as we’ve ever been,” he stated, a sentiment both Richard and Inman supported.
Despite the criticism surrounding the Next Gen car, Kyle Petty remains one of its staunchest advocates. He highlighted the unrealistic expectations some fans have for a return to older models, saying, “What fans are asking for is…give me my ‘64 Impala with a lap belt. They want to go back, and you can’t go back.” He insisted that while adjustments can be made, the sport must continue to evolve.
Addressing Driver Concerns
Petty also addressed the vocal concerns of drivers, who have criticized the car’s performance, particularly regarding overtaking and the issue of “dirty air.” He remarked, “I don’t believe all the racing on the racetrack is as bad as what everybody says it is. I think what you have is a group of vocal drivers who are complaining.” He pointed out the passionate nature of fans who often echo their favorite driver’s sentiments without considering the broader context.
Inman interjected during the podcast, underscoring the car’s departure from its stock roots by stating, “Ain’t nothing on this car looks like a stock car. We could take these three chairs and set them on an interstate and wait for a car like that to come by. We ain’t going to see it.” In response, Kyle Petty clarified, “It’s a racecar. I keep calling it a NASCAR. So, let’s call it a NASCAR Cup car, but it is a race car. And that’s all it was designed for.”
Moreover, he acknowledged the inherent challenges in car design, noting, “Every race car that you build is not the perfect race car. We all know that.” He reminded listeners that even legendary cars from the past had their own set of issues, and continuous improvement is part of the racing landscape.
The discussion on the Petty Family Racing podcast reflects a broader conversation within NASCAR about the Next Gen car’s role in the sport’s future. As the season progresses, the responses from fans and drivers alike will continue to shape the narrative surrounding this innovative yet contentious vehicle.