It was about 40 degrees Fahrenheit when Scott Dixon and Josef Newgarden climbed into their electric Honda and Chevrolet, respectively the Dallara IndyCar machines on Monday and again on Tuesday when Newgarden was under embargo Spirit. All Drivers attended the 2024 engine test at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway to see what the new 2.4-liter engine could do. Not only are these engines meant to deliver more power, but they’re also more efficient than the upcoming 2.2-liter V6s.
The test was originally intended to last only two days, but because the weather was so cold, neither team could be sure that their Firestone Firehawk tires were properly warmed. Since that Wednesday was set to see the weather in the mid-70s, Honda and Chevrolet agreed that the IndyCar should Extend testing for best effect. After all, Monday’s run was postponed until afternoon because the track temperature that morning was too cold.
The next-generation engine specification aims to combine a hybrid system for additional energy and efficiency, but the Mahle-built units were not ready in time due to supply chain shortages. Without the hybrid system, both cars are forced to run a 2022 generator on the 2024 engine to maintain a battery charge. The new engine is bigger, more powerful and, judging by video footage taken from the track, is louder than the 2.2-liter engine it replaces, which has been used in the IndyCar competition since 2012.
IndyCar’s supercharged V6 specs have always been a bit noticeable when zoomed in at speed. Fans can expect the 2024 engine to be a bit brighter, but note largely remains the same. In this case, louder sound would probably be better, as it would provide a more engaging experience for fans and TV viewers.
David Salters, HPD’s president and chief technical officer, said in a statement Monday: “This is an important step for HPD, Honda, and IndyCar as the series transitions into the era of electrification, and that’s it. a successful day. But there are more steps to be taken before the full hybrid power unit launches in 2024. The 2.4-liter engine is a completely new design, fully developed, tested and manufactured by the great men and women at HPD. There’s still a very, very long list of things that need to be done before the electrics can be tested in the competition, but this is definitely an important milestone for everyone at Honda and HPD. ”
G/O Media may receive a commission
39% Off
Flybold Whiskey Decanter Set
Fancy
Comes with a globe-style decanter with a sailing ship on it, two etched drinking glasses, a metal pour funnel, and a wooden tray to hold it all.
IndyCar is making a lot of great moves lately, and the racing has been off the charts awesome. Here’s hoping that this continues into the next generation of racing, because I’d hate for the series to lose any of its magic in an effort to appear more green. There have been many races I’ve watched where hybrid-powered cars put on a great show, but I question how well a spec hybrid unit can be put to best effect in IndyCar, or indeed in IMSA where a similar system will be employed starting next season. Do teams need the complexity and expense of low-power electrification? What does this prove, and to whom?
