IndyCar in Advanced Talks with New Engine Manufacturers for Future Seasons

IndyCar in Advanced Talks with New Engine Manufacturers for Future Seasons

By Michael Harrison

January 8, 2025 at 01:56 AM

IndyCar continues productive discussions with current engine suppliers Chevrolet and Honda, while also engaging potential new manufacturers for future partnerships, according to Penske Entertainment CEO Mark Miles.

IndyCars racing at Miller Motorsports

IndyCars racing at Miller Motorsports

The series, which introduced hybrid technology in July 2024, plans to maintain its combination of internal combustion engines (ICE) and energy recovery systems (ERS) in its next formula, potentially launching as early as 2027. Current manufacturer agreements with Chevrolet and Honda extend through 2026.

Adding a third manufacturer remains a key priority for IndyCar, as it would help reduce the supply burden and costs for existing partners. No additional manufacturer has joined since Lotus's departure after the 2012 season.

"It's very encouraging, both the extension of our existing partners and the possibility of adding one or more new manufacturers," Miles told RACER. He noted that several prospective manufacturers are actively evaluating costs and competitiveness requirements.

The series currently uses a 2.2-liter turbocharged V6 engine formula, implemented in 2012, with a custom ERS package added in 2024. The hybrid system features energy storage and deployment components from Skeleton and Empel, developed in collaboration with Chevrolet and Honda.

Before finalizing any new partnerships, Penske Entertainment must establish concrete specifications for both the ICE and ERS formulas, giving manufacturers the detailed information needed to make long-term commitments to the series.

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