IndyCar Makes Progress in Talks with Current and New Engine Manufacturers
IndyCar continues positive discussions with current engine partners Chevrolet and Honda while exploring opportunities with potential new manufacturers for its next-generation powertrain formula.
IndyCars racing at Miller Motorsports
Penske Entertainment CEO Mark Miles reports encouraging progress in talks with both existing partners and potential newcomers. The series aims to maintain its hybrid powertrain approach, which combines internal combustion engines (ICE) with energy recovery systems (ERS), for the next formula targeted for 2027.
The current engine supply agreements with Chevrolet and Honda extend through 2026. Adding a third manufacturer would help reduce the supply burden and financial commitments for existing partners, addressing a gap left since Lotus's departure after 2012.
Miles emphasized that both current and prospective manufacturers are conducting thorough evaluations of costs and competitive viability. The series needs to finalize its technical specifications for both ICE and ERS components before manufacturers can make formal commitments.
IndyCar currently uses 2.2-liter turbocharged V6 engines, introduced in 2012, with a hybrid ERS package added in July 2024. The hybrid system features energy storage and deployment components from Skeleton and Empel, developed in collaboration with Chevrolet and Honda.