The IndyCar Series had a chance to hit what I think would have been a home run today. Instead, we’ll call it a double.
The IndyCar Racing League has announced that current sole chassis supplier Dallara will also be the sole supplier when the formula changes in 2012. I had hoped for multiple viable options, because I think that would have been another solid step toward what made this series great 20 to 30 years ago. (Check out the entries here. I think the Delta Wing people were serious.)
The good chassis news is that teams will be permitted to use different aerodynamic components (side pods, front clips, rear wings) around the Dallara tub. So that’s a bit more variability, and it will reduce the unfortunate cookie-cutter effect of all of the cars being identically shaped right now. Also, weight is down a whopping 185 pounds.
Finally, Dallara is going to build a facility in Speedway, Indiana to produce the platforms. So that’s cool too.
The engine variability is back in a big way. The formula, announced last month, specifies:
- Four-stroke engines with reciprocating pistons
- Dual overhead camshafts with four valves per cylinder
- Displacement not to exceed 2.4 liters
- Single turbocharger permitted
- Direct injection permitted
- Ethanol-fueled
The engines are expected to land in the 550-to-700 horsepower range, with variability to allow for road/street courses vs. ovals. (The current Honda 3.5L V8 that all teams use develops about 650 horsepower.) Audi, Fiat, Honda, Porsche, and Volkswagen have each expressed sustained interest in supplying engines to the series. (I have to wonder just how different an Audi engine, a Porsche engine, and a Volkswagen engine would be, but never mind.)
The relatively small maximum displacement will obviously kill the V8 architecture. Everyone expects competitive engines that meet the formula to be inline-4s or V6s. I wish more manufacturers were engaged—wouldn’t it be fun to have Ford to pull for?—but maybe more folks will get on board soon.
I’m optimistic. I really enjoy the racing right now, but that all teams have almost identical cars is easily my least favorite part. I’m pleased to see that changing soon.
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