IndyCar has announced plans for a more powerful engine for the 2021 season, which it estimates will produce "more than 900 horsepower".
The series will move to a 2.4-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine, which it hopes will produce an additional 100hp compared to the current spec which has a capacity of 2.2 litres. They will continue to turn at a maximum 12,000 RPM.
The new formula will be in place for six years, providing stability to the series and ensuring it remains affordable.
"Our drivers have been asking for more horsepower and thanks to the hard work of Chevrolet, Honda and the INDYCAR engine group, they’re going to get it," commented Jay Frye, president of competition and operations.
Executives from engine suppliers Chevrolet and Honda welcomed the change.
"The 2.4-litre, twin-turbo V6 engine formula that will be introduced for the 2021 season will continue to showcase relevant technologies that we incorporate in our production engines," said Jim Campbell, U.S. vice president of performance vehicles and motorsports for General Motors.
"The opportunity to transfer learnings in performance, reliability and efficiency between the racetrack and the showroom is very important to Chevrolet."
Honda's president of performance development, Art St. Cyr, added: "The new INDYCAR engine formula should be exciting for the fans and an interesting technical challenge for Honda Performance Development.
"While the overall architecture remains similar to the current engine, the increased displacement will bring many changes, including a notable increase in power that should please all fans of the sport. In addition, it provides our designers and engineers with an opportunity for significant development, which is a challenge we welcome at Honda."
Frye is hopeful the changes could attract new manufacturers, having involved them in discussions over the new platform.
"We’ve talked with a lot of key executives and asked for their opinions, and they’ve all said this is a very relevant platform to what they’re doing.No announcements of additional manufacturers are imminent, but it feels like we’re on a good path."
