NHRA introduces Ultra E.T. category and updated E.T. conversions for 2027
Nov. 4th, 2026
NHRA will introduce a new Ultra E.T. category and updated quarter-mile to eighth-mile elapsed-time conversions for the 2027 season, giving Sportsman competitors and NHRA Member Tracks a defined rules structure for quicker vehicles and updated performance equivalents that reflect today’s modern combinations.
As vehicle performance continues to advance, Ultra E.T. will establish a defined rules structure for vehicles running quicker than 6.00 seconds in the quarter-mile, or quicker than 3.80 seconds in the eighth-mile. The new category will provide competitors and Member Tracks with consistent technical and safety requirements for these quicker vehicles while allowing racers to continue developing and advancing their combinations.
As part of the same restructuring, NHRA is updating the relationship between quarter-mile and eighth-mile E.T. benchmarks throughout the Rulebook. The revised conversions are based on performance data gathered from thousands of runs and are intended to better reflect the relationship between quarter-mile and eighth-mile performance in modern drag racing.
A key part of the change is the transition point between traditional E.T. competition and Advanced E.T. For 2027, the quarter-mile threshold for Advanced E.T. will move from 7.50 seconds to 7.25 seconds, while the existing 4.50-second eighth-mile threshold will remain unchanged.
Other revised E.T. benchmarks will be incorporated throughout the NHRA Rulebook for requirements such as licensing, chassis, driver equipment, and other safety-related standards. Examples of the updated quarter-mile/eighth-mile relationships include:
11.60 seconds: 7.10 seconds in the eighth-mile
10.00 seconds: 6.15 seconds in the eighth-mile
7.25 seconds: 4.50 seconds in the eighth-mile
Both initiatives reflect NHRA’s continued commitment to Sportsman competitors and Member Tracks, providing practical guidance as racers and facilities prepare for the 2027 season.
Competitors and Member Tracks should review the complete 2027 Ultra E.T. requirements and revised E.T. conversions in the 2027 Rulebook. Questions about vehicle requirements should be directed to the appropriate NHRA Division office or NHRA Technical Services.
