This week, INDYCAR has unveiled the design for its all new chassis. In collaboration with Dallara, the IR-28 will debut in the 2028 NTT INDYCAR SERIES championship. This new chassis and powertrain has been built with speed in mind. The design has prioritised safety whilst keeping racing action at its core.
The New IR-28
Dallara’s new IR-28 has been designed to break records in the championship. Being 100lbs lighter than the current DW12 model, the updated power-to-weight ratio will enhance the raceability. Consequently, drivers will be able to push their machines harder, promoting more wheel-to-wheel action.
The brand new model retains the iconic look of INDYCAR whilst being modernised and streamlined. The aerodynamic architecture of the chassis optimises the rear to front wake which will enhance the overtaking capabilities. As well as this, brand new front and rear wings also give road and street courses more aggression whilst also providing maximum downforce for the oval tracks.
A Custom AXIS Inertance Control Suspension System expands the tuning options in the car without increasing the cost. Consequently, optimising the suspension through this system allows for improved mechanical grip. It will become the world’s most advanced suspension system as it permits both front and rear third-element inertance systems.
Aside from what the drivers will feel, fans will gain increased visibility. A digital car position display will allow viewers to see the cars’ position in sessions at anytime. Furthermore, it will have a unique transparent window in the engine cover, highlighting the manufacturers.
INDYCAR’s Updated Powerplant
Alongside the IR-28 chassis, 2028 will see an updated powerplant. Confirming their commitment to the new engines, Chevrolet and Honda will deliver more power, torque, and performance. The new 2.4-liter twin-turbocharged V6 internal combustion engines will produce up to 760 horsepower.
After collaborating with Formula 1 and Formula E, UK-based Helix joins INDYCAR to provide next-generation electric driving systems. As a result, this performance enhancement will feature greater power storage and more deployment options in a lighter engine package.
This era also sees NTT INDYCAR SERIES’ first ever battery-based Energy Storage System (ESS) by BOLD Technology. Delivering 14 times the energy storage capacity of the current model, this will allow the new cars more flexibility over the hybrid unit.
Safety Remains The Priority
Whilst the new IR-28 and powertrain is designed to be faster and lighter, no expenses have been spared when it comes to safety. A sleeker aeroscreen supports the safety of drivers in the cockpit. Wider internal dimensions will allow for a wider range of body types and heights to compete. And enhanced internal airflow and cooling will improve driver comfort, leading to improved performances.
The improved electronically controlled driver adjustable anti-roll bars also clean up the cockpit, which creates a safer driving experience. Alongside this, a redesigned side structure is stronger and more efficient. This creates increased energy absorption during high-impact crashes. Furthermore, the chassis has been designed with improved stability that remains grounded, minimising the risk of ‘nose-up’ spinning incidents.
Drivers and Officials Have Their Say
“Seeing the car for the first time made me even more excited about where INDYCAR is going. The design is super cool and feels like a proper next step for the series while still looking like an INDYCAR SERIES car. I think the fans are going to love it, and as a driver I cannot wait to get behind the wheel.”
~ Álex Palou, No. 10 Chip Ganassi Racing“With initial testing to begin this week, there is still plenty of work to do before 2028, but we are well on our way to showcasing a new era of INDYCAR, which will include enhanced wheel-to-wheel competition, track records, standards in raceability and new benchmarks in safety. We are confident the IR-28 is the ideal package to move INDYCAR forward for our teams, drivers, partners and fans.”
~ INDYCAR President, J. Douglas Boles.“INDYCAR delivers some of the best racing on the planet, and this evolution of the formula creates new opportunities to enhance it—a lighter car, a more powerful hybrid powertrain, an even safer chassis and exciting chassis, and aerodynamic engineering challenges for our Honda associates and teams.”
~ Honda Racing Corporation USA President, David Salters.
A New Era for INDYCAR
2028 will see a new era for INDYCAR as the new car and engine debut. With hopes over faster and more competitive racing, the NTT INDYCAR SERIES could be reborn. In the coming weeks, the new IR-28 will be tested on a range of tracks and officials will continue to work on ensuring it is at top performance.
The advancements see big changes from the current car which has been in play since 2012. Whilst supplies and delays have seen this debut pushed back from 2027, it is back on track to debut soon. Drivers seem excited over the new era, now we have to wait to see how it performs.