Here is a recap of the May 8th, 2021 edition of Chasing Checkers.
This edition of "Chasing Checkers" is stacked and packed as Chase McCabe discusses Kyle Busch finding victory lane at Kansas Speedway. It was Busch's first win of the 2021 season and only his second victory since a 5 win 2019 season which led him to his second championship. Busch led 20 laps in the Buschy McBusch Race 400 at Kansas.
Kyle Larson was the story of the day, however. He led 132 laps, but on the final restart got into Ryan Blaney and finished 19th.
NASCAR and its OEMs revealed the NextGen car on Wednesday. This was a huge day for NASCAR as they continue to take steps towards the future. Embracing technology, but also giving the cars their manufacturer's look. Joey Logano (Ford), Chase Elliott (Chevy) & Denny Hamlin (Toyota) were on hand with NASCAR brass and execs from the three OEMs to unveil the cars.
Next Gen Car Looks
The Next Gen car has given manufacturers greater latitude to incorporate features into the race car body that better replicate the look and feel of the street car.
A sleek new design has lowered the greenhouse, shortened the deck lid and widened the track width of the car giving it more of a coupe look.
The body is fully symmetrical which will reduce aerodynamic forces and put an emphasis back on race car setup and driver control. The new composite material is more durable and will allow more beating and banging without loss of performance.
New 18″ forged aluminum wheels and wider Goodyear tires better replicate what is found on passenger cars and will allow for softer tire compounds.
Next Gen Car Components
Upgraded specs to match modern passenger vehicle technology including independent rear suspension, rack and pinion steering and larger brakes.
A new transaxle combines the transmission and rear gears into one package with an eye on the future – the ability to incorporate electrification.
The bottom of the car is sealed with an underwing and rear diffuser which will help with handling in traffic and reduce “dirty air.”
Hood louvers will allow teams to maximize engine performance independent of aerodynamics.
A redesigned chassis features new front and rear bumpers for increased safety. Both the front and rear clips bolt on to the center section for easier serviceability and damage repair.
Upgraded car connectivity will allow for an in-car camera in every vehicle, with the ability to bring fans more real-time data in the future.
After giving his thoughts on the NextGen Car, Chase is joined by driver Kevin Harvick. How much did Harvick's second place run at Kansas help his season? Also, Kevin gives an update on his son Keelan's early racing career.
It's a big weekend at Fairgrounds Speedway in Nashville as the ARCA East series is in town. Chase chats with Bristol Motor Speedway General Manager, Jerry Caldwell, on the latest negotiations between BMS and the city to fix up the fairgrounds.
It's throwback weekend at Darlington! In the first of two races at the "track too tough to tame," NASCAR's three national series will try to tackle the Lady in Black. Chase gives his Sunday Money picks for the Goodyear 400.
It looks to be a fun weekend of racing and remember if you ever miss anything, you can find it all right here on chasingcheckersradio.com or subscribe to the podcast.
