Dixon and Honda Push for Driver-Controlled 2024 IndyCar Hybrid System

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Scott Dixon has been rigorously testing the supercapacitor-based hybrid system alongside Honda and his Chip Ganassi Racing team. Developed in partnership with Chevrolet and Team Penske, this hybrid system is designed to be compatible across multiple powertrains.

Boasting up to 150 horsepower, the hybrid unit aligns closely with the existing push-to-pass engine boost system, a familiar feature on road and street circuits in the IndyCar series.

Both Dixon and Will Power from Team Penske recently trialed the hybrid system at Sebring International Raceway, experimenting with both manual and automated controls. The final implementation for the next racing season is still under deliberation by IndyCar executives.

David Salters, the president of Honda Performance Development, told F1 Flow.com, “The technology itself is a challenge to perfect. Our ongoing discussions with IndyCar are centered around maximizing this technology to enhance the racing experience. IndyCar racing is all about tight competition and giving everyone a fighting chance to win. With this hybrid system, can we offer the drivers additional strategic options to make overtaking maneuvers more skill-based?”

Salters emphasized that the focus should be on “magnifying the driver’s prowess.”

Additional Reads:

  • Most Effective Use of IndyCar’s 2024 Hybrid System Could Be on Oval Tracks
  • Indycar Hybrid System Tested at Sebring

![Photo by: IndyCar]

Following his back-to-back victory in the St Louis race, Scott Dixon made a plea to IndyCar to prioritize driver interaction in the hybrid system’s operation.

“The technology they’re developing is fascinating,” Dixon said. “It’s not just a replica of systems we’ve seen in other racing leagues like IMSA. I really hope they steer clear of fully automated systems and keep it driver-centric. That could really add another layer of excitement to our races.”

Dixon believes the technology is moving in a positive direction but concedes that it’s a complicated endeavor. “We’ll have to see how things progress as we get closer to launch. Both Honda and IndyCar are pouring a lot of resources into this, and it’s exciting to see the advanced technology they’re bringing into play.”

![Photo by: Honda Racing]

Dixon also pointed out that the development timeline has been pushed back from its initial 2023 launch date, primarily due to supply chain constraints and issues discovered during earlier tests.

“Development is still ongoing,” Dixon continued. “The last round of tests at Sebring showed significant improvements. This technology has enormous implications not just for IndyCar but also for our manufacturers like Honda, who are looking at this as a global initiative.”

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about IndyCar Hybrid System

What is the new hybrid system being tested for the 2024 IndyCar season?

The new hybrid system being developed for the 2024 IndyCar season is a supercapacitor-based system that adds up to 150 horsepower to the car. This technology is designed to be compatible across multiple powertrains and is being developed in partnership with Honda, Chevrolet, Chip Ganassi Racing, and Team Penske.

Who has been involved in the testing of this new hybrid system?

Scott Dixon and Will Power have been actively involved in testing the system. Dixon has been testing it alongside his Chip Ganassi Racing team, while Power is affiliated with Team Penske.

Where have the tests been conducted?

The system has been tested extensively at the Sebring International Raceway.

What is Scott Dixon’s stance on how the system should operate?

Scott Dixon is advocating for the system to be driver-controlled, as opposed to fully automated. He believes that keeping the driver at the center of the technology will add an extra layer of excitement and skill to the races.

What challenges have impacted the system’s implementation timeline?

The original timeline for rolling out the system in 2023 had to be postponed. This delay is attributed to supply chain issues and technical challenges encountered during initial tests.

How does the new hybrid system compare to existing systems in other racing leagues?

The hybrid system in development for the IndyCar series is unique and not just a replica of systems used in other leagues like IMSA. It aligns closely with the existing push-to-pass engine boost system used in the IndyCar series, offering up to 150 horsepower.

What is the perspective of Honda Performance Development on this hybrid system?

David Salters, the president of Honda Performance Development, has expressed that the system is still a work in progress but holds immense potential. The company is engaged in discussions with IndyCar to figure out how best to use the technology to enhance the competitiveness and excitement of the races.

How could the new hybrid system impact the competitiveness of the races?

The system aims to offer drivers more strategic options for overtaking, potentially making the races more skill-based and competitive. It could magnify the driver’s role in the outcome of the race.

Are there any plans to implement the hybrid system on oval tracks?

While the focus has largely been on road and street courses, there is speculation that the system could also be most effective on oval tracks, but this has not been confirmed.

What is the overall goal of implementing this hybrid system in IndyCar?

The overarching goal is to modernize the sport by introducing advanced technology, while still keeping the emphasis on driver skill and strategy. It aims to make the races more engaging for both the drivers and the fans.

More about IndyCar Hybrid System

  • Scott Dixon’s Racing Career
  • Chip Ganassi Racing Team Profile
  • An In-Depth Look at IndyCar’s Push-to-Pass System
  • Sebring International Raceway: A Testing Ground for Innovation
  • Honda’s Journey in Motorsports
  • The Evolution of Hybrid Systems in Racing
  • Team Penske’s Role in Motorsports Innovation
  • Future of IndyCar: A 2024 Outlook
  • Supply Chain Issues in Motorsports
  • How Automotive Technology Influences Racing

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8 comments

IndyFanatic August 29, 2023 - 9:19 am

Hybrid tech in IndyCar? Yesss, about time! But also, gotta say, keeping it driver-controlled is the right way. More strategy, more thrill!

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GreenGearhead August 29, 2023 - 4:22 pm

Good to see motorsports embracing more sustainable tech. Wonder how it’ll perform in actual races. Also, props to Honda for being at the forefront of this.

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PitCrewPaul August 29, 2023 - 5:51 pm

So its delayed till 2024 huh. Supply chain’s messin up everything these days. Hope they get it right, tho.

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WheelWatcher August 29, 2023 - 7:26 pm

Dixon and Power testing it means it’s serious business. When champions put their weight behind something, you know it’s worth it.

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TechJunkie88 August 29, 2023 - 8:00 pm

Hybrid in IndyCar, finally! Looks like we’re catching up with the times. I mean, F1 has been at it for a while now. Kudos to Honda and Dixon for pushing the tech boundaries.

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SophiaTurns August 29, 2023 - 9:01 pm

I’m here for the tech and staying for the drama. If this thing works, its gonna flip the whole championship on its head. Who needs soap operas when you’ve got IndyCar?

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SpeedsterMike August 30, 2023 - 12:00 am

Driver-controlled, now that’s what I’m talkin about. Automated systems are cool n all, but cmon, we wanna see some real skill. No shortcuts to glory!

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RacingFan101 August 30, 2023 - 12:26 am

Woah, 150 horsepower from a hybrid system? That’s legit game-changing! can’t wait to see how this shakes up the season. Go Dixon!

Reply

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