WATCH: Dale Earnhardt Jr & Hendrick Motorsports Legend Explain How the Next-Gen Cars Lose Downforce at Tracks Like Atlanta

The new next-gen cars bring in a whole suite of changes, including major aerodynamic changes to the board. Taking a deep dive into the aerodynamic properties of the new NASCAR Cup Series cars, Steve Letarte and Dale Jr. help fans understand the cars better.

Some of the major changes to the cars included streamlining the roof line and adding a swooping back glass design. A streamlined carbon underbody was introduced and the side skirts were removed. The front and rear diffuser went through an evolution. The new cars also went through an addition of a mechanical release-based diffuser flap to slow down the car by 10-20 percent faster.

But at a track like Atlanta, the aero demands are a bit different. Hence, cars move from a small 4-inch spoiler to a bigger 7-inch spoiler. Steve Letarte explains, “It takes that air over the top of the car and makes a much bigger wake. That has to help you draft. But you also lose a little bit of downforce if following too closely.”

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Overall, the next-gen cars have been a major redevelopment from their predecessors. But with such big changes also come new problems. Some of the drivers had a tough time adjusting to how the new car behaved. Also, the new tire regulations and single lug nut have caused issues for tire manufacturer Goodyear and the pit crews.

Next-Gen cars demand drivers to rely on their race craft even more

The next-gen cars promote tighter racing and this year we have seen some really close finishes.

Four-time NASCAR champion Jeff Gordon commented, “I think we’ve seen great racing. I think we’ve seen cars coming from the back to the front, front to the back. We’ve seen where they can race hard. But the cars are on the edge. The drivers are having to show their talent and ability.”

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Let us know what are your thoughts on this year’s cars and the racing that has taken place so far.