The IndyCar series has unveiled a revolutionary new car strategy for the 2012 season and beyond.
Manufacturers invited to produce bodywork for rolling chassis
The IndyCar series has unveiled a revolutionary new car strategy for the 2012 season and beyond.
It features a rolling chassis with an enhanced safety cell produced by long-time series partner Dallara. However, that will now be covered in changeable bodywork created by manufacturers.
The idea was unveiled in Indianapolis on Wednesday and is based on a recommendation from the series' ICONIC (Innovative, Competitive, Open-Wheel, New, Industry-Relevant, Cost-Effective) Advisory Committee.
In June, ICONIC also recommended a new ethanol-fuelled 2.4-litre turbocharged engine with a maximum of six cylinders and overtake assist system.
Cost effective
Besides improving attributes such as safety, raceability and efficiency, committee member Gil de Ferran said cost-effectiveness was also an aim of the strategy.
The rolling chassis will cost $349,000, with a complete car costing $385,000 - a 45 per cent decrease on the cost of the current model.
Each team can race two different aero kits from any manufacturer during the season, with a maximum price of $70,000 for each kit.
"This unique and groundbreaking concept embraces innovation and competition, very much in keeping with IndyCar traditions, while at the same time achieving the impossible, reducing the cost of entry and competition," IndyCar team owner and 2003 Indianapolis 500 winner De Ferran said.
"By encouraging multiple manufacturers to supply bodywork parts and, essentially, brand the cars, the IZOD IndyCar Series brings in the innovation and competition many of us were looking for."
Prowess
ICONIC Advisory Committee member Tony Purnell said that the new formula would not be limited "to traditional racing manufacturers".
He added: "Come on Ford, GM, Lotus, Ferrari. Come on Lockheed Martin, Boeing, General Electric. Come on you engineers working in your garage or in small shops.
"We've done our best to provide a framework for all of you to showcase your technical prowess without a need for a major raid on your piggy banks. We want you guys involved, all of you."
