Kaulig Racing Reportedly Making Bold Move With Dodge in New Engine Program

For years, Kaulig Racing has been the scrappy underdog in NASCAR — the team punching above its weight, making the most of limited resources. But recent signals from team leadership suggest the underdog mindset is evolving. In a recent radio interview, CEO Chris Rice laid out a blueprint that’s less about getting by, and more about building something meant to last.

Rice didn’t hide the growing pains. He acknowledged 2026 could be rough — more “work in progress” than polished machine — but framed that as the cost of a grander scheme. The goal isn’t next year. It’s the decade after that. That timeline isn’t random. NASCAR is expected to shift engine platforms, hybrids may enter the mix, and there’s chatter a fourth manufacturer could join before 2027. And by chatter, we mean Dodge.

Rice admitted Kaulig has fallen behind in areas like body-work (“body hanging”), said the shop would be working straight through December to fix that, and revealed a push to hire more engineers. Then he dropped what lit up the internet: the team is seriously looking at an in-house engine program. He didn’t say “Dodge,” but the conversation carried enough weight for fans and insiders to read between the lines.

What This Could Mean for the Future of a Factory-Level Kaulig –

• Real OEM Support Potential — By uniting Ram, Dodge, and Kaulig under the same corporate roof, Kaulig could be laying the groundwork for full factory backing — not just in Trucks, but eventually Cup or Xfinity.

• Control Over Performance — An in-house engine program would reduce reliance on outside suppliers or alliances; Kaulig could build, test, and refine their own powertrains, tailoring packages to tracks, drivers, and long-term development.

• Attracting Talent — On and Off Track — Ambitious engineers, crew chiefs, and drivers may be more willing to invest if they believe in a decade-long build. For drivers, that could mean stable rides and a chance to grow into a competitive program.

• Risk and Growing Pains, But With a Blueprint — 2026 may be rough, but the plan isn’t about instant glory. It’s a bet on infrastructure, commitment, and positioning.

The Bottom Line –

Kaulig Racing has stopped fighting for scraps. They’re aiming to build their own table. The whispers about Dodge, engines, and factory-level backing aren’t wishful thinking — they’re part of a carefully laid-out strategy rooted in timing, growth, and ambition. If all the pieces fall into place, Kaulig could shift from mid-tier underdog to full-fledged manufacturer contender.

Only time will tell.

Source: Essentially Sports