Indianapolis Motor Speedway played host to a test track session as IndyCar pushes hybrid testing. Giving insights into the new technology and potential impact of the new hybrid cars for the upcoming season. Reigning series champion Alex Palou, along with three other drivers, took to the 2.5 mile brickyard in race cars equipped with unique hybrid features.
The reviews of the hybrid cars were mixed. Alexander Rossi, the 2016 Indianapolis 500 winner, commented “the new cars were not particularly fast and required further testing”. While Rossi had previous experience with hybrid cars during his time in Formula One, these IndyCar hybrids have their own distinct features.
The hybrid parts are fitted between the engine and gearbox, functioning similarly to IndyCar’s push to pass feature. However, there are noticeable differences, including additional weight, reduced speed, and added tasks for the driver.
Another driver, Will Power, who won the Indy 500 in 2018, has also been testing the hybrid cars at different venues. He stressed the importance of assessing the car’s performance in traffic situations, as this is where it will truly matter. Power acknowledged the straightforward operation of the hybrid system but highlighted the added responsibility for drivers to manage another tool in the cockpit.
Currently, only four cars are available for testing. Six more will be ready so each team has one for the upcoming December test.
Series officials are reviewing guidelines for the technology, in relation to road and street courses with multiple turns and braking zones.
Reliability is also a concern, particularly in the demanding conditions of the long and usually hot Indianapolis race. IndyCar President Jay Frye noted Chevrolet and Honda have been collaborating to develop a spec hybrid system. However, it may not be fully understood how the hybrid cars will perform in the Indy 500, given that there are no ovals on the schedule until May.
Honda Hybrid project leader Matt Niles expressed their interest in looking into sustainable technologies. Honda want to test their hybrid systems under extreme racing conditions. The introduction of hybrid cars could will lead different race strategies during races. Drivers needing to consider when and how to regenerate and deploy energy to gain an advantage.
In terms of speed, Power believes that it will gradually improve but not within the next two years. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing reliability before increasing the power deployment capacity of the hybrid cars.
Overall, the test track session at Indianapolis Motor Speedway provided valuable insights into the potential impact and challenges ahead.
IndyCar pushes hybrid testing and the ongoing experiments between car makers and series officials. However, drivers are crucial in optimizing the performance and reliability of these unique vehicles.