While there have been some big technological and safety enhancements over the years, the NTT IndyCar has been using the same cars for nearly fifteen years.
But in 2028, the series’ cars are finally getting a long-awaited refresh with the IR-28 chassis, which was unveiled on Tuesday.
And it’s a beaut, Clark.
While the IndyCar DNA is still very apparent — which is what we all want — this chassis takes some steps into the future compared to the current DW12, which debuted in 2012.
Twenty. Twelve.
That’s an eternity in motorsports. For comparison, the NASCAR Cup Series refreshed its cars twice in that span, Formula 1 has done it three times, and Formula E (which only debuted in 2014) is slated to introduce four cars later this year.
So, yeah, it’s time.
This chassis is the first to be designed with two big IndyCar additions — the Aeroscreen and hybrid powertrains — in mind, and is expected to be around 100 pounds lighter than its predecessor.
The IR-28 features new front and rear wings for both superspeedways and road and street courses, with the new aero package being designed to allow for closer racing.
The engine cover will give some real estate to the engine manufacturers, and the overall body design allows for more sponsorship space.
Speaking of engines, Honda and Chevrolet will continue on as engine suppliers under the new formula, which will introduce 2.4-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engines that can produce up to 760 horsepower.
The series will introduce a new hybrid system that uses a battery-based Energy Storage System (ESS) with an estimated 14 times the storage capacity of the current system.
It sounds like a solid recipe, and reigning four-time series champion Alex Palou concurs.
“Seeing the car for the first time made me even more excited about where IndyCar is going,” Palou said. “The design is super cool and feels like a proper next step for the series while still looking like an IndyCar Series car.”
While there’s a lot of excitement for the future, drivers still have to focus on this season, including a busy final stretch of the season.
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The series heads to Portland International Raceway on August 9, then the Streets of Markham, Ontario on August 16.
The Freedom 250 Grand Prix of Washington, DC will take place on August 23, followed by a doubleheader at the Milwaukee Mile on August 29 and 30. The season finale will be on September 6 at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca.
All of these races will air on Fox.
