Christopher Bell brought up a hot topic in NASCAR on Wednesday.
Literally a hot topic.
NASCAR is considering using mufflers on its cars for races in major cities like Chicago and Los Angeles. Six racing teams tested the mufflers, along with other minor modifications, Wednesday at Phoenix Raceway.
Bellwho finished third in NASCAR Cup Series The Formula 1 driver, who finished in the standings last season, said the mufflers significantly increased the heat inside his car. That’s a problem because car interiors can reach 140 degrees.
“It was hot, hot, hot, hot,” Bell told Fox Sports reporter Bob Pockrass. “It was a great comparison between yesterday without mufflers and today with mufflers. Just sitting in the garage while changing, it was hot today, and yesterday there was nothing. Even at the end of the test (today), we took the mufflers off and I came back to not even sweating.”
“Today it was 50 degrees and everyone was bundled up in hoodies. I was in the car sweating. All the other drivers were feeling the same way. It’s going to be super hot if we take the same kit and go racing anywhere.”
Christopher Bell said the mufflers were increasing the heat inside the car and that needed to be further improved. He was pleased with the latest aerodynamic package tested, which included a 2-inch spoiler and other modifications under the car. pic.twitter.com/9l49RHPB6p
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) January 26, 2023
This situation may not be a problem for NASCAR. Busch Light Clash at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, a night race in February. But the heat would be a problem at Street Racing in Chicago July 2, as the temperature at race time could be in the 80s or even 90s.
That’s why they’re holding these pre-season tests, though, to address those potential issues.
On a positive note, Bell said the mufflers made the cars “much quieter” in the garage, although he couldn’t see any difference on the track.
