Exciting changes are on the horizon for NASCAR fans as the sport gears up for a major technological upgrade in 2026. One of the most anticipated developments will be the introduction of a cutting-edge digital dash display—which will make its debut in the NASCAR Cup Series.
As part of a broader collaboration with McLaren Applied, this new package promises to reshape the way teams and drivers interact with race data, boosting performance, safety, and efficiency in the process. According to them, teams will have access to the most advanced technology ever seen in NASCAR, giving drivers, engineers, and crew chiefs the tools they need to push the limits of performance. Say hello to the PCU-510.
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The ‘PCU-510’ is not just a simple upgrade; it’s a substantial leap forward in the technology NASCAR teams rely on. The new digital dash will feature a 12.3-inch screen—similar in size to the current PCU-500N unit—but with a higher resolution of 1920×720. The difference in screen quality is immediately noticeable. While the current PCU-500N uses a TFT (Thin Film Transistor) display, the PCU-510 will utilize IPS (In-Plane Switching) technology, offering a wider viewing angle and brighter colors.
What does all this mean for teams? Essentially, clearer, more precise information is delivered to drivers with higher fidelity, making it easier to track performance in real time and adjust strategies mid-race. But it’s not just about resolution. The PCU-510 will also offer composite video input for rearview cameras, providing drivers with a clearer, live view of what’s happening behind them—a key feature for improving safety and awareness on the track.
This is the new PCU-510 digital dash that is scheduled to debut in the NASCAR Cup Series in 2026.
12.3-inch like the current PCU-500N unit but with a higher resolution of 1920×720.
PCU-500N is TFT while PCU-510 will be IPS.
Will offer composite video input for rearview camera. https://t.co/JG6Im3tP3d pic.twitter.com/D4R2uUvims
— Bozi Tatarevic (@BoziTatarevic) January 4, 2025
The announcement of the PCU-510 is just one part of a broader strategy as McLaren Applied takes on an increasingly crucial role in NASCAR. The 2025 season will mark the 13th season of McLaren’s involvement with the series, and they’ve been busy behind the scenes helping shape the future of NASCAR’s electronic systems.
Since the introduction of electronic fuel injection (EFI) in 2012, NASCAR has been using the TAG-400N, a unit that’s racked up more than 4 million miles of racing without a single failure. McLaren has proven itself as a reliable partner, but now, the focus is on even greater precision and adaptability.
As part of the push toward 2026, McLaren will roll out a whole new electronic control platform that includes the TAG-510 and EIU-510. These new systems will serve as the engine and chassis controllers, as well as the central data-logging unit. The TAG-510 is a significant upgrade from the TAG-400N, using modern, high-performance components to improve engine tuning and data analysis.
The TAG-510 is planned for testing in NASCAR this season with a full debut in 2026.
It will bring a whole new package to NASCAR that will include the lighter weight PCU-510 digital dash that integrates a rear view camera monitor. pic.twitter.com/e1L4nC10d7
— Bozi Tatarevic (@BoziTatarevic) January 4, 2025
With greater logging memory and the ability to process more data, the TAG-510 will help teams get even closer to unlocking every ounce of performance from their engines.
The Future of Racing SystemsIt’s not just about the PCU-510 digital dash. McLaren Applied is introducing the TAG-GT package, a comprehensive suite of racing electronics designed to handle everything from vehicle control and data acquisition to engine management. This package includes the TAG-510 for chassis control, the EIU-510 for engine management, and ATLAS GT, a data analysis tool that will help teams get the most out of every race.
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The TAG-GT package is built with future-proofing in mind, and McLaren Applied bringing this technology to NASCAR shows how serious they are about advancing the sport. This new system, which will be in action starting in 2026, is set to change the way teams interact with their cars. With high-fidelity data streaming in real-time, the ability to make quicker adjustments and optimize performance on the fly will be a game-changer.
And McLaren Applied is pumped to have this opportunity with NASCAR. Skylar Stamey, VP of Motorsport in a press release had said, “We are grateful that NASCAR has given us the opportunity to become an official Competition Partner to further this mission. This partnership represents a badge of all-in commitment as we embark on the second major phase of providing competitors hardware, software, and support through 2030 and beyond.”
As McLaren continues to refine and enhance its offerings, the future of NASCAR looks bright. Fans can expect faster, safer, and more thrilling races as this new era of technology takes root. NASCAR is clearly gearing up for something big in 2026, and the PCU-510 digital dash is just the tip of the iceberg.
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However, not all potential changes of 2026 have gotten a good response. What do you think about this system? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.
Source : EssentiallySports