MOORESVILLE, N.C. — IndyCar may not be getting its 2.4-liter “Beast” of an engine, but it is moving forward with the Hybrid Assist Unit.
The recharging device that can add an extra surge of horsepower will continue to be tested in 2023 with implementation planned for 2024, according to IndyCar.
For the past two years, MAHLE Powertrain has worked with IndyCar to develop an innovative, first-of-its-kind hybrid system for the NTT IndyCar Series to provide on-demand acceleration at the driver’s request.
With several milestones now met by MAHLE Powertrain, IndyCar, in collaboration with Chevrolet and Honda Performance Development, will provide continued development and production of the hybrid system in time for the 2024 NTT IndyCar season.
The new hybrid system is an important extension of the IndyCar’s objective to be the most sustainable motorsports series in the world. In 2023, the series will use 100% renewable race fuel in its race cars, while the teams’ support transporters will use 100% renewable diesel fuel as they move from their race shops to the event circuits. The hybrid system developed by MAHLE Powertrain demonstrates how innovative technology can also help the wider transportation and industrial sectors achieve their decarbonization goals.
“We are delighted to have supported the NTT IndyCar Series to develop the new push-to- pass hybrid system,” said MAHLE Powertrain Managing Director Hugh Blaxill. “We’re particularly appreciative of the expertise and support we have received from IndyCar, HPD and Chevrolet during the system’s development, much of which took place during the significant global supply chain issues that demanded even closer collaboration between ourselves, the entire IndyCar team, and our suppliers to help resolve.
“I would like to thank the MAHLE Powertrain team for their hard work and dedication to reaching this milestone, and we look forward to watching the hybrid system perform on track to deliver the exciting racing that IndyCar fans enjoy.”
“We appreciate the innovative solution initiated by MAHLE Powertrain and their hard work in the development of our new hybrid system,” IndyCar President Jay Frye said. “We are also grateful for Chevrolet and HPD, as well as the IndyCar team, for their close collaboration in this important project and continued work as we proceed toward implementation for the 2024 NTT IndyCar season.”