Kyle Petty has publicly defended NASCAR’s Next Generation car during a recent episode of the Petty Family Racing podcast. This discussion followed the regular season finale held at Daytona International Speedway on September 30, 2023. Petty, alongside his father, NASCAR Hall of Fame legend Richard Petty, and his cousin, former crew chief Dale Inman, shared insights into the ongoing debate surrounding the car’s performance and design.
Petty asserted that the current model, often referred to as the Gen 7 car, represents a significant evolution from traditional stock cars. He emphasized that while some fans express a desire to revert to earlier models, such as the classic 1964 Impala, such a return is unrealistic. “Once you go forward, you can’t go back,” he stated, reiterating that adjustments can be made, but the sport must progress.
During the conversation, Petty acknowledged the vocal criticisms from certain drivers who feel the car’s design hampers their ability to race effectively. He noted that passionate fan bases often echo their favorite drivers’ sentiments, leading to a skewed perception of the car’s performance. “I don’t believe all the racing on the racetrack is as bad as what everybody says it is,” Petty remarked, indicating that the feedback from a select group of drivers may not represent the broader experience of all racers.
Insights from the Podcast Discussion
Inman contributed to the discussion by pointing out the stark differences between the current car and traditional stock cars. “Ain’t nothing on this car looks like a stock car,” he asserted, emphasizing that the current vehicle bears little resemblance to its predecessors. He further illustrated this by suggesting that one could wait on a highway for a passing car that resembles the Next Gen model without success.
Petty responded by reaffirming the car’s identity as a race car designed specifically for NASCAR. He noted that no race car is perfect, and continual adjustments are part of the sport. “Every race car that you build is not the perfect race car,” he explained, reflecting on the challenges that come with innovation in racing.
The conversation highlighted the divergent views within the NASCAR community regarding the Next Generation car. While some drivers and fans express dissatisfaction, others, like Petty, advocate for embracing change and recognizing the car’s potential for competitive racing.
As NASCAR continues to evolve, the debate surrounding the Next Gen car is likely to persist, but voices like Kyle Petty’s remind fans and participants alike that adaptation is a crucial part of the sport’s future.
