IndyCar officials have released an updated image of the universal aerodynamic bodywork kit that will be used by all competitors in the 2018 campaign.
Concept images were published in January and this has now been refined; once again, there will be two configurations: one for superspeedway ovals, and another for road/street courses/short ovals.
IndyCar is hopeful that the new bodywork kits, which will cover the Dallara IR-12 chassis used since 2012, will be available for testing from the summer.
“While this remains a work in progress, we are encouraged with where the development of the 2018 car stands,” said Jay Frye, INDYCAR president of competition and operations.
“The look of the car is bold, the performance data from simulations is meeting targeted goals and safety enhancements built into the design will be substantial.”
Among the changes for the 2018-specification car will be lower engine covers, while the rear wing and front wing main plane are smaller, with the rear wing for the road course/short oval package lower and wider.
“We’ve been working on the aerodynamics to suit the look, rather than the other way around,” said IndyCar Director of Aerodynamic Development Tino Belli.
A key component of the new car is for it to generate most of its downforce from underneath instead of on top. This will improve racing and passing opportunities by decreasing the turbulent air that the Indy car leaves in its wake.
“We’re working on creating more of the downforce from the underwing. The hole in the floor (of the undertray on this year’s car) will be sealed for the road courses and short ovals, but will still be open for the superspeedways.”
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