NASCAR officials have updated the NASCAR Cup Series short track and road course rules package for this year.
The changes focus on aerodynamics in hopes of closer competition on both types of tracks. It will go into effect for the series’ first points-paying race, Phoenix Raceway, on March 10.
The series tested at Phoenix last month with the proposed rules package, which brought positive feedback from the select drivers and teams that conducted the test.
Among the notable changes is a simplified rear diffuser and higher spoiler. The series will run a three-inch spoiler, up one inch from last season.
NASCAR’s exhibition event at the LA Coliseum will feature last year’s package.
While the majority of venues will feature the latest changes, Bristol (Tenn.) Motor Speedway and Delaware’s Dover Motor Speedway are currently not set to use the new configuration.
NASCAR will evaluate how the package performs during the first three short track races at Phoenix, Richmond (Va.) Raceway and Martinsville Speedway before further commitment.