Dale Earnhardt Jr. reassured NASCAR fans after the unveiling of an electric vehicle prototype in Chicago over the weekend. Concerns had surfaced in NASCAR circles about the possibility of an EV series replacing one of the top three NASCAR series or encroaching on the Cup Series. However, Earnhardt Jr. made it clear that such changes are not imminent.
In a recent episode of the Dale Jr. Download, Earnhardt Jr. addressed the issue, noting the initial panic among fans. He likened the prototype to a large-scale toy and emphasized there’s no need for alarm. He described it as something akin to the slot cars he raced, highlighting its novelty factor and playfulness.
To ease fears further, Earnhardt Jr. explained discussions about showcasing the car in partnership with Nitrocross, potentially offering it a niche within a different motorsport segment. He expressed confidence that the EV initiative wouldn’t overshadow NASCAR’s existing appeal and structure, including the Truck, Xfinity, and Cup series.
Regarding criticisms about the prototype’s appearance, Earnhardt Jr. acknowledged the feedback but stressed that once manufacturers refine the design to align with their brands, it would likely look more familiar and appealing. He reassured fans that NASCAR isn’t primarily a car design entity and expects manufacturers to ensure the vehicle resembles their street models if it were to evolve into a full series.
