NASCAR released new rules for 2015 Tuesday that include a testing ban and a reduction in engine horsepower from 900 to about 725. In addition, there will be a smaller rear spoiler, 6-inches as opposed to 7.25 inches; that will decrease downforce, something drivers have been asking for. The new package was tested at Michigan International Speedway last month.
NASCAR had a ban in effect from 2009 to 2013 that prevented teams from testing at tracks that are sanctioned by NASCAR’s three top series. This season NASCAR allowed four tests at sanctioned tracks and unlimited testing at private tracks. With the new rules, testing for any team will be banned after this season’s final race at Homestead-Miami Speedway. The ban includes the traditional preseason testing at Daytona International Speedway in January that normally kicks off the season. The only testing that will be permitted will be tests in conjunction with Goodyear at selected tracks and tightly controlled by NASCAR.
“This race package represents a lot of hard work by NASCAR, the race teams, the drivers, our manufacturer partners and Goodyear,” said Gene Stefanyshyn, NASCAR senior vice president of innovation and racing development in an emailed press release. “We’ve remained committed to constantly looking at our racing, and the work that has been done has been aimed at getting a rules package delivered to the race teams as early as possible.” MORE>>>
Greg is the author of "The Nuts and Bolts of NASCAR: The Definitive Viewers' Guide to Big-Time Stock Car Auto Racing" and has been published in major publications across the country including the Los Angeles Times, the Cleveland Plain Dealer and the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. He was also a contributor to Chicken Soup for the NASCAR Soul, published in 2010, and the Christmas edition in 2016. He wrote as the NASCAR, Formula 1, Auto Reviews and National Veterans Affairs Examiner for Examiner.com and has appeared on Fox News. He holds a BS degree in communications, a Masters degree in psychology and is currently a PhD candidate majoring in psychology. He is currently the weekend Motorsports Editor for Autoweek.
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