Maiden Next Gen Champion Joey Logano Welcomes NASCAR World’s Horsepower Demands With a ‘Bada**’ Verdict

The more, the merrier! But the question is when and how. The necessity for aero packages and tire modifications for improved racing on specific circuits has been apparent since the Next Gen Cup Series car was introduced in 2022. Moreover, there’s been a buzz in the NASCAR community over Denny Hamlin‘s recent suggestion to increase horsepower for a better racing experience.

The discussion is heating up as more drivers join in the support of increasing horsepower. One of them is Joey Logano. The No. 22 Team Penske’s driver started the Bristol Race from the 4th position in the lineup, beside Denny Hamlin, but unlike Denny who won the Food City 500, Logano finished P22. 

Joey Logano talks power: Ready for NASCAR’s ‘Bada**’ challenge

While having a quick conversation with NASCAR FOX’s reporter, Bob Pockrass, Joey Logano didn’t hesitate to admit the perks of a higher horsepower car. The present Next Gen cars are limited to a 670 HP engine; however, according to Hamlin’s statement, the engine can hold power up to 750 HP without any issue.

Bob Pockrass’s address to the horsepower issue addressed NASCAR’s concerns about the increased costs associated with research and development. Logano, with his stance reflected with a chuckle, stated, “I don’t know where it all comes from; to be honest with you, I think there’s I don’t know who leads the low horsepower band, but I could promise it was not the drivers because I think every one of us wants to have more power.”

He went on to provide further solutions and issues for HP. “Immediately to me, it also would eliminate a lot of issues to do now, right? Gear Shifting, we would need to shift if we had that But maybe, maybe the same feeling is just taking some tire grip away,” remarked Logano.

Understanding Joey’s response, Bob then prompts Joey with another question, “With More Horse Power. Do you feel like it gives you more maneuverability and increases tire wear?”

To which the No. 22 driver answers affirmatively with a befitting reply, “I think so and 100%. It increases tire wear makes a track wider, and it’s more badass.” With this, he explains that the increased tire wear effectively widens the racing track, providing drivers with more racing lines and opportunities to overtake.

Dale Earnhardt Jr’s preference over adding HP 

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At Phoenix Raceway last weekend, NASCAR faced scrutiny over changes aimed at short tracks. Additionally, Denny Hamlin’s horsepower concerns sparked dialogue in the community. Dale Earnhardt Jr. lauded Hamlin’s stance, highlighting, “I love Denny’s honesty.” 

Yet, Earnhardt Jr. doubted the effectiveness of just adding horsepower, citing potential hurdles and costs. He underlined NASCAR’s complexity, urging a holistic approach to car performance. Earnhardt Jr. stated, “I can’t be sure that just adding horsepower is gonna make a big difference.” 

He stressed the need to eliminate shifting, asserting, “I still want them to try and work on getting rid of the shifting.” Earnhardt Jr. labeled shifting a “distraction” and highlighted its impact on driver focus, noting, “It’s such a distraction from what they really would love to be focusing on.” He concluded by echoing sentiments shared by Hamlin and others, emphasizing the importance of optimizing car control and racing strategy without the interference of shifting gears.

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With the discussion leveling up, drivers and racing community members have nothing but to remain hopeful. It’s totally up to the NASCAR authorities to decide what they are going to come up with next. But yes, the earlier, the better!