NASCAR first introduced its EV, the ABB NASCAR EV, back in 2024. At the time, the organisation, however, emphasized that the series won't immediately go electric, and changes, if any, would be gradual and measured. But recent developments might change that. 

NASCAR EVP John Probst recently spoke about what the future of the sport will look like. He spoke about the likelihood of introducing a Crossover Utility Vehicle-style body to the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, pointing out how the series lacks a brand identity. 

Probst said, "If you look at the brand identity of those three [national series], the O’Reilly Series struggles a little bit just from the car perspective, and you see it a lot because we refer to it often as whoever the entitlement sponsor is." 

The current CUV of the NOAPS is similar to the Cup Series one. He further gave a timeline of when the change could take place. "Long term, you see it as we do, have that CUV body that we developed for our electric vehicle. I'm not sitting here saying today we’re breaking news it’s going to CUV, but these are the things that are on the roadmap to consider."

"So, you’d have a Truck, a CUV, and a Cup. That’s three very different bodies that are relevant for our OEMs today to create that brand identity for each series," Probst concluded.

While NOAPS is making an attempt to cater to the manufacturers, they are also trying to adapt to the evolving trends. Despite the series struggling with its brand identity, it has gained viewership over the past few races. All of this has been possible due to the close competition that the series has been producing. 

The proposal, however, has been met with resistance from fans, NASCAR insiders, and drivers.

NASCAR community against the introduction of EVs in the O'Reilly Series

John Probst's comments about the plans of electric vehicles in the O'Reilly Series received pushback. Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Mark Martin were the prominent voices against the proposal. 

"I hope this never happens," Dale Jr wrote in an X post. His opinion carries weight in NASCAR not only because of his family legacy, but also because he co-owns JR Motorsports in the O'Reilly series.

Mark Martin had the same sentiment as he shared in another X post, writing, "They say hope is not a strategy but that’s really all I’ve got for now."

Motorsports reporter Toby Christie also reacted to the news. He was rather blunt in his post, as he wrote, "No. Please, just no. #NASCAR."

Probst has not yet announced a definitive timeline. However, one thing is for sure: all eyes in the NASCAR world will be on this news if and when it becomes official.

You can read more on the Daytona Racing Digest!

Written by

Chionia Libania Colaco

Edited by

Yask Kotak