The NTT IndyCar Series' latest advancement in driver protection the 'Advanced Frontal Protection' system will be implemented ahead of schedule for the next race, the IndyCar Grand Prix.
The debris deflector was set to be introduced ahead of the 103rd running of the Indianapolis on May 26, however, the series' sole-chassis supplier Dallara worked hard to get the system in place two weeks earlier than planned.
The AFP device is bolted onto the nose of the Dallara IR-18 chassis centreline directly ahead of the cockpit, it's main aim is to push flying debris away from the driver's head.
Including the brackets and monocoque reinforcement to accommodate the AFP, it weighs just over two kilograms and has passed the same load testing as the IndyCar roll hoop.
All of the drivers who took part in the open test last at Indianapolis last week had the device on their cars. IndyCar President Jay Frye has since given the go-ahead for the device to be used in competition.
"Thanks to a phenomenal effort by Dallara and all of the IndyCar teams, we are ahead of schedule in making this happen," Frye told IndyCar.com.
Arrow Schmidt Peterson Motorsports' James Hinchcliffe was pleased with the results of the AFP and heaped praise on the governing body for the continued push on driver safety.
"It’s great to see that IndyCar is always pushing safety," added the Canadian. "Obviously, this is just Step 1 in an evolution of head protection. But having been hit by a piece of debris that would’ve been prevented with this device, I’m all for it.
"It’s also comforting to know that behind the scenes we are still working hard on a more comprehensive solution."
Frye also confirmed the AFP is just 'Phase 1' in the series' efforts to improve cockpit safety, More details on the next stage is set to be released in May.
The next race is the Indy Grand Prix which will take place on May 9-11.
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