IndyCar has published the first official photos of its new-for-2018 universal aero kit, previously only seen in computer generated renders.
The new look has been described as "bolder, safer and more thrilling" but remains based on the Dallara IR-12 introduced in 2012.
Although the new kits, an oval-specific kit and a road and temporary street circuit kit, are less complex in terms of aerodynamics, the amount of downforce generated by the underside of the car has been increased by 19 per cent, meaning 66 per cent of the cars downforce comes from the floor.
It's hoped that will allow for closer racing without impacting cornerning and top speeds. In fact, a simulation done by IndyCar expects an increase in the top speed at many ovals due to the cars being lighter than before.
A number of safety improvements have also been included. The car features reduced front and rear-wing main planes as well as a reduction in winglets and the such, decreasing the potential for debris.
Increased side-impact protection has been added, which is now eight to ten inches wider at the driver's hips. The design has also allowed for a cockpit windscreen application, when one has been developed.
The kits will be standard amongst all Honda and Chevrolet-powered cars.
"The [design] process started a year ago in April, and we took the input of our fans, drivers, teams, manufacturers, partners – everyone shares in this," said Jay Frye, president, INDYCAR competition and operations.
"There is a historical component to this design, and it comes with a very forward look and all the latest components. Although the design looked good on paper it looks even better in person. We couldn’t be more excited to get this car on the track."
The kits will undergo testing on Tuesday and Wednesday of this week at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, followed by two further tests in August (Mid-Ohio and Iowa) and then one in September (Sebring).
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