NASCAR testing in Phoenix

Two days of testing are scheduled this week on the Phoenix oval to prepare for the racing season. NASCAR Cup series 2023. Six teams are involved in order to test several solutions aimed at improving the behavior of the Next Gen and resolving certain security problems which marred the inaugural season of this new generation:

• Trackhouse Racing – Chevrolet
• Roush Fenway Keselowski–Ford
• Joe gibbs racing Toyota
• Team Penske–Ford
• Legacy Motor Club – Chevrolet
• JTG Daughrty Racing – Chevrolet

Brad Keselowski pilots for the occasion a Ford Mustang tribute to Ken Block, taking up the identity and colors of the famous and diabolical Ford Escort RS Cosworth of the American champion, affectionately nicknamed “Cossie V2” 

RFK pays tribute to Ken Block © NASCAR

On the first day, the six cars initially took to the track in 2022 configuration in order to establish a healthy basis for comparison. With almost polar temperatures, it would have been unthinkable to use the data collected during the final on November 06. The cars then took turns on the Arizona oval during four sessions, solo or in a peloton, in order to evaluate some adjustments to the flat bottom and the rear spoiler.

Ride shotgun with BK during a group run from today's test 💯@keselowski | @phoenixraceway pic.twitter.com/yxz2IoljxJ

— RFK Racing (@RFKracing) January 24, 2023

These modifications aim primarily to improve the behavior of the cars during road races or on ovals of a development of 1 mile (1,609km) or less, which was the black point in terms of spectacle of the 2022 season. The objective was to obtain a reduction in aerodynamic disturbances in traffic and to improve the overtaking capacity of the cars by reducing the loss of support at the front in the aspiration phases. The new flat bottom also uses certain solutions developed by the Garage 56 project test car. Le Mans with a rearrangement of the extractor.

Reworked extractor and 'Low Drag' kit © Bob Pockrass

A big novelty also appeared during these tests, an exhaust silencer. The goal is not to silence the fabulous V8s, but just to control their vocalizations a little for two rounds taking place in urban areas, the clash at the Los Angeles Coliseum and the race in the city of Chicago. Let's rest assured, NASCAR is not losing its soul!

Officials are also working with teams to address the buildup of tire rubber debris under the car and in the wheel wells, a phenomenon that caused several fires last season.

The Legacy Motor Club Chevrolets are adorned with gold © NASCAR

Finally, this two-day session will provide track time to returning seven-time Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson to familiarize himself with the Next Gen. Despite their track record, debutants Kimi Räikkönen and Mike Rockenfeller benefited from the same running time before their Cup debut last year. The new owner of the Legacy Motor Club, retired in 2020, will take part in a few rounds this season and for the occasion will drive a car sporting the most beautiful black and gold “stealth” livery. 

ALSO READ > Medals for the NASCAR Clash