The NTT IndyCar Series will introduce self-starting functionality on pit lane for its hybrid powertrains when the 2025 season begins at St. Petersburg on February 28.

This expansion builds on the hybrid system's successful implementation at Mid-Ohio last summer, where trackside self-starting significantly reduced caution periods during stalls at road and street courses.

Teams now have two options for starting their vehicles on pit lane:

• Traditional method: Using a crew member with a battery-powered external starter
• New hybrid method: Drivers activating the motor generator units (MGU) from the cockpit

The series initially restricted pit lane self-starting to allow teams time to familiarize themselves with the hybrid technology. This cautious approach proved beneficial, with only one penalty issued in 2024 when Colton Herta of Andretti Global used unauthorized self-starting, resulting in a "Yield 1 Track Position" penalty.

For safety reasons, oval track regulations remain unchanged - the AMR Safety Team will continue managing all restart procedures at these venues.

This development marks another step in IndyCar's successful integration of hybrid technology, streamlining pit lane operations while maintaining necessary safety protocols.

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