NASCAR to Add a New Transmission Option in 2021
While most racing series have already been integrating sequential or DCT transmissions for quite a while, NASCAR has remained committed to its standard 4-speed manual H-pattern transmission. Using this transmission, which has not changed significantly since the time of a 1950's Ford, NASCAR attracts tens of thousands of spectators to its events each year. This competition has become so popular because success here is defined by driving skills of racers rather than by talents of engineers who design and develop the cars. But it seems like the series is now working on integration of a new transmission option to be as fast as with other racing series worldwide. But recently, automotive news media have reported that the next-gen NASCAR Cup Series car that is presently under development comes with a six-speed transmission instead of a standard 4-speed unit.
But recently, automotive news media have reported that the next-gen NASCAR Cup Series car that is presently under development comes with a six-speed transmission instead of a standard 4-speed unit. Published images of the test mule being driven by Joey Logano clearly demonstrated that the car had a specific type of gear selector typical for a sequential transmission, rather than a conventional manual unit.
Next generation NASCAR
car being tested on the track
It is well-known that sequentials are based on
standard manual units, but they feature straight-cut gears instead of helical
gears and do not require a clutch pedal (it is replaced with an electronic
control unit). These design peculiarities ensure faster gear shifting. It
should be noted that in cars with sequential gearboxes, drivers can engage gears
only in a strict sequence (similar to motorcycles).
Sequential shifter linkage In the new NASCAR car
The story on a new NASCAR transmission received new details during the latest PRI Show, where news reporters had a chance to interview the tech specialists involved with the transmission project. They even elaborated on the topic and specified that the new car is to be equipped with an Xtrac brand solution (namely, P1293 longitudinal gearbox). It’s the same unit found application in the Australian Supercars series, which includes cars that are similar in some respects to what NASCAR is preparing for 2021.
Learn more about the transmission unit used in the Australian Supercars series
Xtrac is well-known as a major supplier of transmission
solutions to the world’s top racing teams. The company deservedly won numerous awards
for its transmission technologies. The company uses high-quality complex
components and specialist know-how to provide performance transmissions that
meet the highest quality standards.
Fortunately, Xtrac also took part in the PRI
Show and reporter managed not only get more info on the future configurations
of NASCAR cars, but also to see with their own eyes the Xtrac’s transaxle
exhibited during the show.
Check out a lot of racing transmission stuff presented at PRI 2019
This unit is notable for its space-saving
design and lightweightness. In the Supercars setup, this 6-speed sequential
unit can handle up to 671 Nm of torque. Since current NASCAR engines generate
approximately 610–680 Nm of torque, this transmission solutions seems to fit in
well. This solution also benefits from cost-effective manufacturing programs,
increased reliability, and longer servicing intervals.
P1293 longitudinal
gearbox
It is rumored that NASCAR is testing the P1293 unit in the Next Gen car with several modifications when compared to its Supercars analog. These changes lie in different gear ratios and several adjustments required for compliance with the NASCAR platform. The use of the Xtrac’s solution will certainly cause significant changes to NASCAR cars, as its current racing cars are based on a solid rear axle and corresponding suspension structure. Thus, NASCAR will be adapt an independent rear suspension for the 1-st time in its history.
These novelties present not only plenty of
opportunities, but also may turn out to be a serious task to specialists who,
in line with the NASCAR tech restrictions, have introduced only some insignificant
alterations to the cars in recent years.
