2011(?) Spec Change Talks Update
By Andrew Cutler
February 5 2009
The Indy Racing League has released an update on the status of the ongoing discussions regarding the engine/chassis specifications changes that they HOPE to implement in time for the 2011 IndyCar season: more on that new wrinkle at the end of this article.
First of all, they have finally offically revealed the identities of the parties who are still taking part in these discussions. The list basically includes all of those companies who's participation had already been speculated at via the "rumor mill". Potential engine suppliers Honda Performance Developement, Prosche, Audi, Volkswagon and Fiat Powertrain Technologies (the rumor had put Alfa Romeo at the table: like Alfa, FPT is part of the FIAT group) are there, as well as chassis desginer Dallara and tire maker Firestone.
To this point, there is a general consensus on the basic outline of the engine package. They are looking at developing a final set of secifications on a four stroke engine of not over 2.0 litres, featuring a dual-overhead cam system with four valves per cylinder and a single turbo-charger. They also note that direct injection systems will be permitted, but not mandated. The IRL is looking for an life of 3750 miles per engine between rebuilds. While they have not singled out ethanol - or any other specific source - they remain committed to using an alternative fuel.
When the final specification details are hashed out, the plan is to set a five year freeze on further engine developement, with the exception of a pre-determined list of annual "updates". As is the case currently, the engines will be made available to the IndyCar teams under a lease agreement, with a fair & reasonable ceiling placed on the annual (or, in the case of part-time squads, per event) cost.
Brain Barnhardt, the IRL's president of operations, has noted that, in light of the current world economic slump, the hoped-for timetable of having a new spec car ready to race in time for the 2011 season may prove to be too much to ask of the potential manufacturers. Thus, the change may have to be delayed until 2012. Whenever it happens, he is hopeful that there will be at least two - and maybe three - engine options for the teams to choose from.