IndyCar Embarks on New Era with Hybrid Technology at Mid-Ohio
The Hybrid Era Begins
As the IndyCar 2023 season heats up, North America’s premier open-wheel championship is gearing up for a significant change. The current 2.2-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, a staple of the series since 2012, will be paired with hybrid technology, marking a new era for the sport. The first race to feature this innovative combination will take place at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course from July 5-7.
“I have two emotions,” Rossi said. “I mean, I’m sad because it’s the end of an era. We grew up falling in love with this sport with kind of the framework of what it is now. At the same time, if you look at where the world is going, where manufacturers are going, you got to evolve. It’s an exciting time for the series to take that step towards the future.”
The New Hybrid System
The new hybrid unit, developed in collaboration with Chevrolet, Honda, and IndyCar, is a low-voltage (48V) system comprising a Motor Generator Unit (MGU) and Energy Storage System (ESS). The system, which fits inside the bellhousing between the engine and gearbox, consists of 20 ultracapacitors. In addition to the existing push-to-pass system, drivers will now have access to hybrid assist, providing a combined 120 additional horsepower, bringing the total to over 800 horsepower – a mark not seen in IndyCar in over two decades.
During the regeneration process, the MGU builds up power stored in the ESS, which can be deployed through the same motor generator on driver demand. Drivers have options for regeneration, including automatic via braking or throttle position, and manual selection through steering wheel paddles and buttons. The stored energy will be deployed manually through a latching button, similar to push-to-pass.
Hybrid Deployment and Impact
The hybrid deployment will be available on road courses and street circuits, with different rules applying to the two systems. Unlike push-to-pass, the hybrid power unit will limit the amount of energy deployed per lap based on track length. The two systems can be used simultaneously, for maximum horsepower usage, and the hybrid deployment will also be used on ovals.
“I don’t know how much of a difference it will make,” Herta said. “It’s a short burst of energy. If you have a run going, it might give you the edge to pass somebody. I don’t think it will create the opportunity to pass. I think it’s going to be more of a factor of how much push to pass you have.”
One of the unique advantages of the hybrid unit is the ability for drivers to self-start and continue on when stalled, minimizing the need for the AMR Safety Team to intervene.
The IndyCar series is set to kick off this new era at the 2.258-mile, 13-turn natural terrain road course in Lexington, Ohio, next weekend. Stay tuned for the latest IndyCar news, IndyCar schedule, and IndyCar results as the sport embarks on this exciting new chapter.
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