Dodge to race in NASCAR Cup Series in February despite missing body panels

Dodge does not yet have body panels for its NASCAR Cup Series entry, which is due to be ready in about two weeks, but NASCAR still expects the car to be ready for 2027 Speedweeks, including the Clash at Daytona on February 13. NASCAR Event Management President John Probst said the approval process had been completed as quickly as possible once Dodge decided to return after a 14-year absence.

Probst said a new car typically takes about 18 months to be approved and made ready to race. The exoskeleton has passed wind tunnel testing, and production body panels are next. Probst said NASCAR has not previously seen an manufacturer pass the wind tunnel test and then fail with production panels, adding that adjustments are possible if needed.

Probst also said NASCAR's current rulebook does not allow a new manufacturer to test, but that discussions on new manufacturer tests are expected. The engine Dodge will use remains unconfirmed, with Probst only saying it would be compliant.