The late 80s and early 90s EC Strats had a harder V shape neck while the newer models feature a softer V shape. I'm curious what year this changed? Was it when Fender made the switch to VNs in 2001?

It had to be before the 2001 update, I know I have played Lace Sensor-equipped ECs with the softer profile several years prior to the update. It must have happened in the mid-90s - exactly when, I don't know.

The original Blackie had a sharp V profile.

The three signature prototypes Clapton played extensively from 1986 to 1993 featured a softer V backshape similar to that of an early 1930s Martin dreadnought acoustic, which became a standard feature since the introduction of slowhand's namesake guitar in 1988. They're often called "smoker's guitars" for their cigarette holders. Eric stopped smoking cigarettes in late 1993.