The National Hot Rod Diesel Association - The largest and longest-running diesel motorsport organization in the world.
National Hot Rod Diesel Association
At the heart of the diesel performance scene stands the National Hot Rod Diesel Association (NHRDA) — an organization built around raw power, fierce competition, unstoppable community, and the relentless drive to push the limits of diesel-powered motorsports.
OUR MISSION & DNA
Two Decades of Diesel Dominance
Founded in 2003 by Randy and Stacy Cole, NHRDA began as a spark—igniting passion for diesel racing beyond grassroots gatherings. Two decades later, that spark has roared into the largest and longest-running diesel motorsport organization in the world.
Our Mission
Bring together diesel enthusiasts—drivers, builders, and fans—and deliver adrenaline-charged events that celebrate what these machines can do.
- Drag Racing, Sled Pulls, Dyno Competitions & More - for pickups and big rigs alike
- Partnerships with Top Manufacturers - creating a thriving ecosystem that fuels the sport
- National Championship Series - culminating each fall with the World Finals
- NHRA Alternative Sanctioning Organization - recognized from 2014–2019
BY THE NUMBERS
22 Years of Diesel Excellence
22+
YEARS IN
BUSINESS
9
RACING
CLASSES
4
MAJOR EVENTS
ANNUALLY
197
MPH TOP
SPEED RECORD
WHAT WE OFFER
More Than Just Race Day
For competitors and fans alike, NHRDA isn't just race day—it's an experience.
National Championship Series
Culminating each fall with the World Finals, where top performers earn their crowns and chase national records.
Events Across the U.S. & Canada
Classes for every build—from daily-driven street trucks to full-blown race rigs. Everyone has a place to compete.
Records & Standards
The NHRDA National Records list benchmarks like elapsed time (ET) and top speed for premier classes.
Burnout Contests
Spectacular burnout competitions showcasing tire smoke, horsepower, and crowd-pleasing diesel performance.
Truck Shows & Big Rig Light Shows
Show-N-Shines, vendor rows, exhibition rigs—because diesel culture goes way beyond the track.
Dyno Challenges
Put your build to the test with dyno competitions measuring raw horsepower and torque.
WHY IT MATTERS
Diesel Performance, National Stage
For Drivers & Teams
A chance to compete, gain recognition, and chase national records.
For Fans
A spectacle unlike any other—smoke, sound, horsepower, and high-octane fun.
For Manufacturers & Sponsors
Direct access to an audience passionate about diesel performance.
For the Diesel Community
Legitimacy and recognition on the national motorsports stage.
LOOKING AHEAD
We're Not Just Keeping Up—We're Revving Up
NHRDA's future is all about growth, innovation, and reach.
- Expanded event locations
- Enhanced live-stream coverage
- New classes and competition formats
- A push to regain our NHRA sanctioning partnership by 2026
The next chapter of diesel motorsports starts now.
Join the Diesel Movement
Whether you're a seasoned racer or someone who just loves the rumble of a big diesel engine, NHRDA has a place for you.
Because at the end of the day, the National Hot Rod Diesel Association isn't just an organization—it's a movement, a stage, and a celebration of diesel performance culture.