IndyCar announces that it will unveil its highly anticipated hybrid propulsion system during the upcoming race weekend at Mid-Ohio. This marks a significant milestone for the series, as the introduction of the hybrid system has faced numerous delays due to component shortages and necessary design changes. However, after extensive testing by all teams in the series, IndyCar is finally ready to launch the system at the Mid-Ohio Sportscar Course from July 5-7. President Jay Frye expressed his excitement for this new era in IndyCar, stating that the hybrid power unit will bring an exciting element to the series with additional power and overtaking options.
The hybrid components will be integrated into the existing car parts that were introduced earlier in the year. Specifically designed to accommodate these additional pieces, the car will feature 20 supercapacitors mounted inside the steering wheel housing between the internal combustion engine and the gearbox. Energy will be delivered and regenerated through a Motor Generator Unit connected to the clutch shaft. Drivers will have the ability to regenerate energy through braking or manually using the steering wheel paddles. Both regeneration methods have been tested and deemed suitable for track use.
The hybrid power will work in conjunction with the Push to Pass boost system, with limitations on the amount of electrical energy used per lap and a total defined time per race for the Push to Pass system. The combination of enhanced performance from the internal combustion engine and the hybrid components is expected to produce over 800 horsepower, with potential for additional power in the future.
The President of Honda Racing Corporation USA, David Salters, praised his team’s efforts in developing the supercapacitor package and control software for the hybrid system. He expressed pride in the collaboration between Honda and IndyCar and hopes that the new technology will enhance the racing spectacle for fans.
To conclude the testing phase and allow drivers to familiarize themselves with the track, a full field test is scheduled for June 11 at the Milwaukee Mile. This test will serve as the final evaluation of the hybrid units before the race weekend at Mid-Ohio, which will be the first event to feature the new hybrid system in action.
