The NTT IndyCar Series has delayed the introduction of its new hybrid powertrain one year, moving the change to the 2024 season.
The change is a result of ongoing supply chain and component shortages, which had already delayed the first on-track testing of the new systems by a couple months.
“We are pleased with the pace of the technical development of the 2.4-liter, twin-turbocharged V-6 hybrid as we prepare it for competition,” said INDYCAR President Jay Frye.
“We are very encouraged by the progress our team and our partners have made, but an immediate decision needed to be made to ensure we are prepared for the 2023 season utilizing our current 2.2-liter engine package.
“Thanks to our great partners at Honda and Chevrolet for working through this challenging supply chain situation. We are going full speed ahead with the 2.4-liter hybrid engine and cannot wait to have it on track in 2024.”
The new engines will give IndyCars nearly 900 horsepower when the combustion engine and electric motors are combined, and will add more weight to a chassis that has already had to burden numerous weight gains since its introduction.
Multiple drivers who have tested cars with added weight to simulate the new configuration have voiced concerns about how heavy the cars will become with the new engine.
The current 2.2-liter engine formula will be used for the 2023 season, extending its life one year longer than originally planned and continuing IndyCar’s stable regulation period.
The first on-track test of the new powertrain is now scheduled for March 30-31 at Sebring International Raceway.
Some good news for a change.
So why do Indy need Hybrids anyway when they are running Ethanol a bio fuel made from corn .
Seems they are greener than F1 already or am I missing something ?