Bigger isn’t always better

Bigger isn’t always better

IndyCars break with tradition and “evolve” from V8 to V6

BY MISSY HARRIS

IndyCars run cleaner and longer with V6 turbocharged engines

H.G. Wells said “Adapt or perish, now or ever, is nature’s inexorable imperative.” Confined not only to nature and its varied causes and effects, this imperative applies to the high-stakes world of racing as well. Even though historically IndyCars have employed V8 engines for their power and speed, there is a change afoot for the fastest cars in the world.

For the upcoming race of the year, the Indianapolis 500, engines will be made by Chevrolet and Lotus, as well as Honda, and will be 2.2L V6 turbocharged units, instead of the traditional 3.5-liter. They will be tuned to produce a range of 550–700 horsepower (410–520 kW) with a 12,000 RPM limit (up from the V8’s 10,300 RPMs) and will run a standard E85 fuel. Also, the “push to pass” feature in 2012 will allow a limited horsepower gain up to 100 HP, as opposed to the current “overtake assist” which only provides 10 to 20 HP. Honda went with a single large turbocharger, and Chevrolet and Lotus engines will have dual turbochargers, all to be provided by BorgWarner.

What this means is that even though engines will be smaller, they look to be just as fast. And this change comes with great environmental and commercial benefit. Engines will include energy recovery systems and contain fuel flow restrictions, thus making them run cleaner and longer.

In addition to new-style engines, IndyCars will use an entirely fresh and innovative chassis created by Italian designer Dallara. This chassis incorporates the “IndyCar Safety Cell” with extended foam surrounding the driver, providing additional protection. Also, instead of using the standard foot clutch as in the past, this year’s IndyCar drivers will be using a hand clutch on the steering wheel, perhaps a problem-inducing adjustment for some.

In the super competitive world of IndyCar racing, change is inevitable. In relation to engine size and speed, that’s a good thing.

Want to learn more? Go to http://speed2design.com/ and enter a one-of-a-kind contest (sponsored by Littelfuse) for a chance to win behind-the-scenes access to the engineers and pit crew behind Indy Racing League Champion Tony Kanaan’s #11 car and the KV Racing Team.