The no-prep racing world is buzzing with a hot debate surrounding Speed Promotions and their approach to race starts for the 2025 season. With No Prep Kings (NPK) continuing to evolve, one of the biggest discussions right now is whether they will primarily use the Pro Tree or Instant Green start system. According to recent information, it looks like there will be a mix of both formats, which is stirring plenty of conversation among racers and fans alike.
Photo by LUTZ RACE CARS
The Breakdown: Instant Green vs. Pro Tree
Instant Green is a start system that eliminates any guesswork from the racers’ reaction time. The moment the light flashes green, the race is on—no yellow countdown, no staging anticipation. This method prevents slower cars from "cutting the tree" or guessing when the light will change, which can sometimes allow a less powerful car to pull off an upset against a faster competitor. The idea is simple: if you jump early, you red light, and you're out.
On the other hand, the Pro Tree is the traditional format used in many major drag racing events, including Pro Mod and radial races. The Pro Tree flashes all three yellow bulbs simultaneously before turning green after a set interval. This format rewards reaction time and driver skill, making it a true test of both car performance and driver ability.
Photo by Mallory Elizabeth Photography
Why the Debate?
The controversy comes down to the competitive nature of no-prep racing. Some racers feel Instant Green levels the playing field by removing the ability to guess the tree, making it all about who has the better car and driver combination. Others argue that Pro Tree racing is the fairest system because it rewards the best reaction time and race execution rather than relying on luck.
In NPK, where the stakes are high and the competition fierce, some of the top racers with the fastest, most expensive cars prefer the Pro Tree. This system ensures that races are determined by actual driving skill rather than a well-timed guess. However, Instant Green has been known to create dramatic moments, unexpected upsets, and, let’s be honest, a little bit of the drama that makes for great TV.
A Mixed Approach: The Best of Both Worlds?
It appears Speed Promotions is looking to incorporate both styles in the 2025 season—some races will be run on Instant Green while others will use the Pro Tree. This hybrid approach could add an extra layer of strategy to the series, forcing racers to adapt to different formats and proving who is truly the best across both styles of racing.
Photo by Stat Guy
By including Instant Green in some events, we could see more unpredictable results and exciting moments that keep fans on the edge of their seats. Meanwhile, the Pro Tree races will showcase pure reaction-time battles, highlighting the skill of the racers behind the wheel.
What It Means for the 2025 Season
One of the most significant changes coming to the 2025 season is the relaxed rule set—36-inch tires are allowed, and outside of requiring a steel roof and quarter panels, there are virtually no limitations on car builds. This means we could see some of the wildest no-prep racing yet, with insanely fast cars pushing the limits.
With a mix of Instant Green and Pro Tree races, every event will have a unique challenge, and the best racers will need to prove they can win under both conditions. The combination of high-powered cars and varied start systems is sure to make for one of the most exciting seasons yet.
Stay tuned to Street Outlaws Talks for all the latest updates on Speed Promotions, NPK, and everything happening in the no-prep racing world. This season is shaping up to be one for the history books, and we can’t wait to see how it all unfolds!
Comments