What happens when the thrill of NASCAR’s Superspeedways gets overshadowed by fuel-saving strategies? Superspeedways are NASCAR’s biggest attractions, but recent trends in fuel-saving have changed how drivers and fans experience these races. Some blame it on the next-gen cars, while others blame the tactic itself. One thing is clear, though: things have come a long way since Dale Sr, when you could see drivers speeding from the rear to the front and surprising the fans.

The controversy around these strategies has grown, with many drivers expressing their displeasure. This shift has significantly altered the dynamics of the races. However, why is this happening, and what do the drivers think about it? Let’s find out.

While many chose to criticize, C. Bell, who drives a #9 Toyota for Joe Gibbs Racing, provided insights into the mechanics of fuel savings. “There’s really only one way to save fuel, and that’s to lift off the accelerator and use less throttle time,” he explained. Christopher Bell highlighted that under yellow flags, saving fuel becomes easier as drivers can push the clutch in and shut the engine off. This tactic helps make it to stage breaks without an extra pit stop.

The JGR driver further elaborated on why teams use these strategies. “In some cases, you might be right on the edge of making it to the stage break without having to make your green flag pit stop,” he said. The goal is to spend less time in the pit stall, which translates to better positions on the track. “That’s why we’re saving so much fuel on superspeedways,” Bell emphasized.

A key technical aspect that has influenced fuel-saving strategies is the design of the wheel wells. The wheel wells are shaped to create significant aerodynamic drag, forcing the cars to consume more fuel, especially at high speeds. By lifting off the throttle and using less power, drivers can reduce this drag, thus conserving fuel. Additionally, the introduction of the next-gen car and the switch from a five-lug to a single-lug wheel have impacted pit strategies, making fuel management even more critical.

NASCAR Superspeedways are not so “super” anymore

Fuel saving at superspeedways has always been a part of the strategy, but its importance has increased recently. Kyle Busch described the slower-paced race due to fuel-saving strategies as “pathetic.” He said, “I felt disgraceful myself as a race car driver wanting to go fast and lead laps and win the Daytona 500.” Busch, like many others, was frustrated by the necessity of fuel-saving at the start of races because “everybody was doing it”.

Chase Elliott also noted that fuel-saving at superspeedways had been around for years but wasn’t as widespread. He mentioned, “It wasn’t talked about because the entire field wasn’t doing it.” However, with NASCAR’s tight regulations, more teams have adopted them. “Now, it’s an open book,” Elliott said, highlighting how the strategy has become more prevalent.

Furthermore, Brad Keselowski expressed confusion over the uproar. “I didn’t understand why my fellow competitors were upset about the fuel-saving strategy during the Daytona 500,” he remarked. The strategy’s adoption by more teams has led to slower races, which has disappointed many fans and drivers alike. The need to save fuel translates into less aggressive driving and more strategic coasting, fundamentally changing the nature of the race.

Although different drivers have different opinions—some are aggressive while others are diplomatic—one thing is certain: Fuel savings are here to stay. It looks like the genie is out of the bottle.