IndyCar Outlines New Chassis for 2028 Season
At Road America, IndyCar provided team owners with an update on the development of the new Dallara chassis set to debut in the 2028 season. The design aims to attract a new generation of fans while retaining familiar IndyCar styling elements.
IndyCar President Doug Boles emphasized the necessity for a new chassis, stating, “The time has come for a new NTT IndyCar Series chassis. The DW12 has served us well, but recent updates necessitate a complete redesign.” Boles highlighted the collaboration between IndyCar engineers and Dallara in crafting a vehicle that prioritizes competition, powertrain development, and safety.
Key features of the new chassis include:
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Competition Enhancement: The chassis is engineered for optimal performance across the various circuit types, including superspeedways, short ovals, street courses, and permanent road tracks, utilizing advanced simulation technologies.
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Weight Reduction: The design targets an 85-100 pound reduction in weight compared to the DW12.
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Powertrain: The introduction of a 2.4-liter twin-turbocharged V6 should provide increased torque and power over the existing engine framework. Xtrac will continue supplying transmissions, aiming for a 25-pound reduction in gearbox weight and greater compatibility with the future INDY NXT by Firestone gearbox.
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Hybrid Technology: The new car will further develop low-voltage hybrid engine technology, enhancing the duration and effectiveness of hybrid deployment for improved overall performance.
- Safety Features: The updated chassis will feature an ergonomic cockpit, integrated aeroscreen, and a new roll hoop to enhance driver safety, following the previous retrofitting of aeroscreens in 2020.
Performance Friction Corporation (PFC) will remain the exclusive brake system components supplier. Full design renderings and additional technical specifications are expected to be released in the future as development progresses.
