Hybrid engine postponed to 2023, Chevrolet and Honda still involved

Expected for 2022, the hybrid engines IndyCar new generation, built around a 6L twin-turbo V2,4 architecture, will be finally introduced in the American series in 2023.

A confirmation underlying the respective press releases published this Saturday from Chevrolet and Honda, current engine manufacturers of the discipline, and who have extended their contract with Penske Corporation, at the head of IndyCar, for several years.

A postponement mainly due to the coronavirus pandemic which has largely affected the various programs competing around the planet, and led to several changes to the schedule for introducing new regulations, as was the case in F1.

“Honda America and HPD are proud of our ongoing and mutually beneficial relationship with IndyCar in North America, points out Dave Gardner, executive vice president of national operations for Honda America.

Motorsport and racing help define who we are as a company. IndyCar's transition to an electrified formula aligns with our business focus in this region. We look forward to this exciting new era. »

An extension of commitment for the Japanese firm, even though the F1 program will be purely and simply stopped at the end of 2021, as announced yesterday.

“We are excited to move forward with IndyCar as it is the perfect showcase for our engine technology, in a high-tech, growing series that Roger Penske and his team are taking to the next level. » comments Mark Reuss, president of GM, parent company of Chevrolet.

On the technical side, the future hybrid engine should offer an additional 100 hp, to reach almost 900 hp. The powertrain will also offer a system different from manual starters, allowing drivers to quickly restart the car in the event of a stall on the track.

Let us also remember that IndyCar has never hidden its desire to attract new engine manufacturers, such a postponement potentially providing more latitude for an interested brand.