INDYCAR has announced a freeze on aero kit development for manufacturers Honda and Chevrolet ahead of the 2017 Verizon IndyCar Series season, before introducing universal aero kits for 2018.
Aero kits were first introduced to IndyCar in 2015, with Honda and Chevrolet supplying one specification for road courses, street tracks and short ovals, and a second for superspeedways.
Ahead of this weekend's season finale at Sonoma, INDYCAR confirmed that aero kit development had been frozen with immediate effect after discussions with the series' manufacturers, the hope being the move will spark further interest from OEMs.
"Today's announcement follows an extended dialogue with Chevrolet, Honda, our teams and stakeholders – this decision focused on what is best for the future of the Verizon IndyCar Series," said Jay Frye, INDYCAR president of competition and operations.
"This is an integral component to INDYCAR's long-term plan to continue to produce the highest quality of on-track competition while also positioning ourselves to add additional engine manufacturers.
"The 2018 car is a tremendous opportunity for INDYCAR and the design collaboration is already underway. The goal of the universal car is to be great-looking, less aero dependent, have more potential for mechanical grip/downforce and to incorporate all the latest safety enhancements."
