# Dodge Returns to NASCAR Cup After 14 Years

> Dodge has no Cup Series body panels yet but plans February race.
- Title: Dodge Returns to NASCAR Cup After 14 Years · Autoweek
- Summary: Dodge has no Cup Series body panels yet but plans February race. Dodge will race in February 2027 NASCAR Cup Series event despite lacking body panels for its…
- Keywords: dodge, nascar, cup series, speedweeks, daytona 500, clash, stellantis, nascar cup series, body panels, 2027 rules, engine, Autoweek
- Source: Autoweek — https://autoweek.com/racing/nascar/a74307264/dodge-has-no-nascar-cup-body-panels
- Author: Deb Williams
- Published: 2026-11-03T23:38:59+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: dodge, nascar, cup series, speedweeks, daytona 500, clash, stellantis, nascar cup series, body panels, 2027 rules, engine, cars
## Dodge returns to Cup after 14 years
Dodge won’t have body panels for its Cup Series entry for about two weeks.
## NASCAR expects Dodge ready for 2027 Speedweeks
NASCAR still expects the car to be ready for 2027 Speedweeks including the Clash.
## NASCAR Event Management President says
NASCAR Event Management President John Probst said Dodge has no body panels as of this moment.
## Dodge eligible for Goodyear tests
Dodge is now eligible for Goodyear tire tests and wheel force transducer tests.
## 18-month approval process
Getting a new car approved by NASCAR takes about an 18-month process.
## Body panels production timeline
Once body panels are made, NASCAR will test them in wind tunnels to ensure performance.
## 2027 rules launch date
November 15 is the launch date for the 2027 NASCAR rules.
## Engine uncertainty for Dodge
Dodge may use another OEM’s engine for a year while developing its powerplant.
## Key takeaway

Dodge will race in February 2027 NASCAR Cup Series event despite lacking body panels for its Cup Series entry.