NASCAR Innovates to Enhance Safety: Kettering Alum at the Helm

NASCAR Innovates to Enhance Safety: Kettering Alum at the Helm

In response to recent dramatic crashes at Daytona International Speedway and Michigan International Speedway, NASCAR has launched innovative aerodynamic enhancements to keep cars grounded during high-speed spins - and a Kettering University graduate is leading the way. Eric Jacuzzi '08 (Mechanical Engineering) has served as NASCAR's vice president of vehicle performance since January 2023, leading the Research and Development team through the introduction of crucial modifications to the cars' design. These changes include enlarging roof rails to disrupt airflow during spins and implementing a small triangular "parachute" on the right-side roof flap. Additionally, a new side skirt has been added to help reduce pressure underneath the vehicle.

"We went to work here at the R&D center using CFD and wind tunnels to essentially see what we can do," Jacuzzi said. "We want that liftoff speed as high as we can get it to keep the cars on the ground."

The new features are designed to significantly increase the cars' takeoff speed by 25% during sideways spins, a vital improvement in reducing the risk of airborne crashes. The enhancements will be implemented for all superspeedway races, ensuring a safer environment for drivers and teams.

NASCAR's commitment to safety continues with ongoing research and development. Jacuzzi and his team are determined to build on these initial improvements, aiming for a future where long-drawn-out car flips become a relic of the past.

In addition to a bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from Kettering University, Jacuzzi holds a master's and a Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Michigan and North Carolina State University, respectively.