A test conducted by NASCAR and Goodyear this week at Kentucky speedway is about more than just tires — drivers are also experimenting with a new digital dashboard.
Featuring readings for lap times, fluid temperatures, tire pressure, RPMS and other data, the radically redesigned dashboard is more technologically advanced than the gauges drivers currently use. Jamie McMurray, who is among four drivers taking part in the test, expressed enthusiasm about the new tool and shared what it looks like from his vantage point.
Same dash just changed the page by hitting a switch. WAY different than what we have been using. pic.twitter.com/NNBdNRaYKs
— Jamie McMurray (@jamiemcmurray) April 13, 2015
The information displayed is not just for the eyes of drivers and crew chiefs only, but as the sport strives to be accessible will also be made available to fans. NASCAR executive vice president Steve O’Donnell explained the impetus for the change in an interview with SiriusXM Radio Monday.
“That is the ultimate goal, is to get as much information as we can — first and foremost to the drivers and crew chiefs that they can see and react to — but ultimately to the fans,” O’Donnell said. “So if you’re sitting at the race track, and you’re on your device, we want you to essentially be in Denny Hamlin’s car and be able to see what he is seeing and react to it.
“It’s evolving, and it’s something that we think can be a real game changer for the sport in terms of us showcasing technology. There’s also some proprietary information. We want to make sure we keep that with the teams from a competitive standpoint, but some really cool stuff potentially coming for ’16 and I think the fans will ultimately enjoy what they see.”
Teams can begin using the digital dashboard in races after Aug. 5, but not sooner. The display will be mandatory next season.
