The NASCAR Community is facing a strong reaction after a new idea about changing car design in one of its series came to light. During a recent discussion, John Probst discussed the possibility of introducing a CUV-style body to the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series.
The concept is tied to the sport’s push toward electric vehicles and current manufacturer trends. It is also part of a broader plan to give each national series a clearer identity. After Adam Stern shared the comments, the idea spread quickly online and drew strong responses from across the NASCAR Community.
John Probst Explains NASCAR’s Long-Term Thinking
Probst’s full comment, shared by Stern, gave more detail about the idea and its timeline. He made it clear that no immediate change has been confirmed.
“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.”
His statement shows that NASCAR is exploring ways to align its cars with what manufacturers currently produce. Automakers have shifted focus toward crossovers and electric vehicles, and NASCAR is working to stay connected to those trends.
At the same time, the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series has built momentum with its current format. The racing product has drawn attention for close competition and consistent action on track. That has helped increase interest in recent seasons.
NASCAR Community Reacts as Drivers and Media Respond
The NASCAR Community quickly responded after the comments circulated online. Drivers, reporters, and fans shared their views as the discussion gained attention across the sport.
Dale Earnhardt Jr. responded with a direct message after the comment circulated. “I hope this never happens.” His response gained traction and reflected many reactions within the NASCAR Community.
Veteran reporter Jeff Gluck added context but showed concern about timing. “Hopefully, if this happens, it won’t be anytime soon.”
Parker Kligerman offered a more detailed view. He said he has called the O’Reilly series “Classic stock car racing” for years. He explained that motorsports faces constant pressure to adapt to new technology and manufacturer needs. “The question is: Do you continue to change with them, or prepare a platform that can survive in an OEM-less future? Is that 10 years away? 20 years?” he said.
Kligerman also pointed to other forms of racing. “Sprint cars, dirt late models, etc., are essentially this. Are they relevant technologically? No. Do they have a dedicated fan base? Yes. The current car has a dwindling supply of parts, and the manufacturers of those parts are disappearing.”
Motorsports reporter Toby Christie succinctly shared his reaction. “No. Please, just no. #NASCAR.”
NASCAR has not announced a timeline for any change. The CUV concept remains under discussion. The response shows the NASCAR Community will continue to follow closely as the sport evaluates its next steps.
NASCAR Community Reacts to John Probst Proposed Use of CUV Body Style for O’Reilly Series