Kyle Petty has publicly defended the controversial Next Generation (Gen 7) NASCAR car during a recent episode of the Petty Family Racing podcast. Speaking alongside his father, NASCAR Hall of Fame legend Richard Petty, and his cousin and longtime crew chief Dale Inman, Kyle articulated his belief that the current iteration of the vehicle is a vital evolution for the sport.
The conversation took place following the regular season finale held at the Daytona International Speedway on August 26, 2023. Kyle Petty highlighted a common sentiment among fans who long for a return to classic stock cars, stating, “What fans are asking for is I don’t like this new car, give me my ‘64 Impala with a lap belt.” However, he emphasized that the sport has moved forward and cannot revert to its past.
Petty’s Perspective on Racing Evolution
Kyle acknowledged the challenges faced by drivers in adapting to the new car, suggesting that a vocal minority may be influencing public opinion. “I don’t believe all the racing on the racetrack is as bad as what everybody says it is,” he noted. “You have a group of vocal drivers who are complaining about it, who complain about the car, I can’t pass, it’s dirty air, all this stuff.” He pointed out that fans often align their opinions with those of their preferred drivers, amplifying the discourse around the new vehicle.
Inman added to the discussion by asserting, “Ain’t nothing on this car looks like a stock car.” His comment underscored the departure from traditional designs that many fans reminisce about. In response, Kyle defended the Next Gen car, stating, “It’s a racecar. So, let’s call it a NASCAR Cup car, but it is a race car. And that’s all it was designed for.”
The Future of NASCAR
Kyle Petty believes that the evolution of racing technology is a constant process. “Every race car that you build is not the perfect race car. We all know that,” he explained. He recalled the realities of car development, where even seasoned teams faced challenges with their designs. “You’ve got to keep working on them,” he said, emphasizing a commitment to improvement rather than a return to outdated models.
Kyle’s perspective reflects a broader debate within the NASCAR community about the balance between tradition and innovation. While some fans and drivers express dissatisfaction with the current state of racing, others like Kyle Petty advocate for embracing change. As the sport continues to evolve, the discussion surrounding the Next Gen car represents a critical moment in NASCAR’s history.
In his remarks, Kyle Petty encapsulated the ongoing struggle between nostalgia and progress, asserting that while adjustments may be needed, a complete return to the past is not a viable option. The conversation among the Petty family illustrates the complexities of NASCAR’s future and the various viewpoints that will shape it.
