NASCAR will use its exhibition All-Star Race to incorporate a series of aerodynamic modifications designed to improve the quality of racing, the sanctioning body announced Monday.
NASCAR announces changes to reduce downforce, improve racing
The new rules pertaining to aerodynamics get a test run in this weekend’s non-points All-Star Race.
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The new rules prohibit adjustments to the cars’ rear toe and eliminates electric brake-cooling fans, with the idea of decreasing the amount of downforce and sideforce, therefore making it easier for drivers to pass.
The mandate that cars must have the rear wheel alignment set at zero degrees and not 0.3 degrees as previously required is a change specific for this weekend’s All-Star Race at Charlotte Motor Speedway with an eye towards full-time implementation in 2017. The abolition of brake-cooling fans goes into effect for the remainder of the 2016 season.
NASCAR has worked to greatly reduce downforce by as much as 25 percent this season. A move brought about by drivers who lobbied for rule changes throughout 2015 to make cars harder to control, which in turn emphasizes their ability. But as teams have continually worked to restore the downforce officials took away, drivers in recent weeks have said passing has become more difficult and wanted NASCAR to take action.
Both of the new rules rolled out Monday will be tested Tuesday at a Goodyear tire test at Michigan International Speedway. Aric Almirola, Austin Dillon, Kyle Larson and Martin Truex Jr. are the four drivers participating in the test session, according to NASCAR.com.
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