Dodge Targeting 2027 NASCAR Cup Series Comeback With ECR Engines
Dodge is nearing a landmark agreement to return to the NASCAR Cup Series in 2027, targeting the season-opening Daytona 500 for its long-awaited comeback, sports.yahoo.com reported. If finalized, the move will introduce a fourth manufacturer to the premier division grid alongside Chevrolet, Ford, and Toyota for the first time since Dodge departed following the 2012 season.
Negotiations remain ongoing, and parent company Stellantis has begun preparing for a formal announcement. To bypass the years required to build a competitive powerplant from scratch, Dodge is working toward an unconventional partnership with ECR Engines, the Richard Childress Racing-owned operation that builds engines for Chevrolet. Under the proposed terms, ECR would supply both Chevrolet and Dodge, though the Dodge powerplants require distinct technical differences rather than functioning as rebadged Chevrolet units.
NASCAR Leadership and Rival Manufacturers Weigh In on Return
NASCAR President Steve O’Donnell addressed the ongoing discussions, emphasizing that the organization wants to ensure a sustainable launch rather than a rushed debut. “I want to make sure that they and the sport get it right, so yes I’d love to see them in 2027,” O’Donnell told Sports Business Journal, as reported by motorbiscuit.com. “But it’s more important for all of us to make it’s a successful launch for Dodge.”
The proposed arrangement required the cooperation of NASCAR’s existing manufacturers.
Potential Team Partnership and Roster Speculation
Kaulig Racing is expected to spearhead Dodge’s return to the Cup Series grid. The organization already fields five Ram-supported entries in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, providing Dodge with an established operational framework rather than forcing the manufacturer to build a Cup team from scratch.
While unconfirmed, industry observers have connected Keselowski’s upcoming free agency with potential ties to the manufacturer’s new chapter.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2027 Dodge Comeback
When was the last time Dodge competed in the NASCAR Cup Series?
Dodge last competed in the premier division in 2012, capturing the championship that season with driver Brad Keselowski and Team Penske in a Dodge Charger before exiting the sport.
Which engine supplier is Dodge expected to use for the 2027 season?
Dodge is reportedly working toward an arrangement with ECR Engines, a Richard Childress Racing-owned operation, to supply powerplants as a bridge while the manufacturer develops a long-term engine program.
Which racing team is linked to fielding Dodge cars in 2027?
Kaulig Racing is expected to serve as Dodge’s primary Cup Series partner, building on its existing relationship running Ram-supported entries in the Craftsman Truck Series.
Next Steps in Stellantis Negotiations
Stellantis and NASCAR officials continue working through outstanding contractual hurdles and technical details ahead of the 2027 season-opening Daytona 500 on Feb. 21, 2027.