The NTT IndyCar Series is introducing self-starting functionality for hybrid powertrains on pit lane, starting with the 2025 season opener at St. Petersburg on February 28.

Previously, self-starting was only allowed trackside at road and street courses after the hybrid system's introduction at Mid-Ohio last summer. This feature helped prevent caution periods when cars stalled, as drivers could restart without requiring AMR Safety Team assistance.

Teams now have two options for starting their cars in pit lane:

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

Important notes about the new self-starting rules:

• Teams can choose either starting method
• Self-starting remains prohibited on ovals for safety reasons
• AMR Safety Team will continue managing all oval restart situations

The rule change comes after a testing period during the second half of last season, where pit lane self-starting was banned to allow teams to familiarize themselves with the hybrid systems. The only penalty for illegal self-starting in 2024 was issued to Andretti Global's Colton Herta, who received a "Yield 1 Track Position" penalty for using self-start on pit lane before it was permitted.

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