IndyCar reveals new 2028 car: lighter and faster to break historic records By Janderson Luiz
4 min read
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IndyCar has announced the launch of its next-generation vehicle, the IR-28, which will make its competitive debut at the start of the 2028 season. This new chassis, accompanied by an updated engine package, promises faster lap times, improved safety and more competitive head-to-head racing across all track configurations. The innovation represents a significant step forward for single-seater motorsport, seeking to redefine competition standards globally.
Developed in collaboration with long-standing chassis supplier Dallara, the IR-28 is the result of a complete redesign, conceived from the ground up. The aim is to establish new heights for motorsport competition, whilst maintaining the series’ distinctive identity. The initiative aims to not only modernize the fleet, but also boost the growth of the sport and the experience of fans, who will be able to witness more exciting races and historic records being broken.
New model promises to break historical marks on tracks
The IR-28 is designed to surpass current lap times and aim for long-standing track records across North America. Among the targets are the historic Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS) speed records, set in 1996 by two-time Indianapolis 500 champion Arie Luyendyk. This ambition reflects the category’s commitment to raising the level of competition and challenging the limits of engineering and performance.
To reach these speeds and improve racing ability, the new car underwent a significant weight reduction, with direct implications:
- Total weight loss:The IR-28 will weigh about 45 kilograms (100 pounds) less than the current race car.
- Power-to-weight ratio:The lighter structure will significantly improve acceleration and braking performance, allowing drivers to follow more closely and push harder in head-to-head contests. This change is crucial for more competitive and visually exciting racing.
Aerodynamic and design improvements elevate performance
Maintaining IndyCar’s iconic styling elements, every part of the IR-28’s bodywork has been redesigned with a focus on efficiency and racing dynamics. The main new feature is an aerodynamic wake architecture built specifically to optimize airflow behind the vehicle, an advancement that could revolutionize overtaking. This will reduce turbulence and encourage fairer racing, a long-standing desire of drivers and fans.
The configurations of the new front and rear wings provide an aggressive stance on street and mixed circuits, essential to the series’ versatility. For superspeedways, including IMS, a high downforce, low drag package will be used, with a more stable front wing. These changes are designed to balance top speed with stability in high-speed corners, allowing drivers greater confidence.
Safety advances and cockpit innovations
Safety is a fundamental pillar of the new design, with the protective aeroscreen integrated directly into the chassis architecture. This integration results in a lighter, more elegant and aerodynamic profile, giving the car a distinctive “jet fighter” appearance. The measure not only improves aesthetics and aerodynamic efficiency, but, above all, increases the protection of pilots in the event of accidents.
The cockpit also received important innovations, aiming to optimize ergonomics and responsiveness. The mechanical stabilizer bar buttons and handles have been replaced with electronically rider-adjustable stabilizer bars. This frees up space in the cockpit, increasing safety and improving responsiveness in car setup during the race, giving drivers unprecedented control.
Advanced suspension system for greater competitiveness
The IR-28 incorporates a custom AXIS inertia suspension system built around a shared, lightweight damping architecture. The AXIS platform offers multi-mode tuning options for springs, shock absorbers and inertia dampers without significantly increasing costs. It is important to note that IndyCar will remain the only major motorsport championship to allow third-element inertia systems at both the front and rear of the vehicle, an important technical difference.
This technology allows teams to fine-tune the car’s behavior, adapting it to different track conditions and driving styles in a strategic way. The ability to customize the suspension in such a granular way can be a crucial differentiator in racing strategies, contributing to the unpredictability and excitement of races throughout the season.
What is expected for the future of IndyCar with the new model
J. Douglas Boles, president of IndyCar, expressed excitement about the new chassis, noting that a project of this magnitude requires remarkable planning, collaboration and execution. He thanked partners such as Dallara, Chevrolet, Honda, Firestone and Shell, who worked tirelessly to create a package that promises to enhance IndyCar’s already incredible competition and its growth in the sports scene.
With initial testing set to begin soon, there is still a significant amount of work until 2028 to refine the vehicle. However, the series is confident that the IR-28 is the ideal package to propel IndyCar into a new era, delivering enhanced wheel-to-wheel competition, track records and new safety standards for teams, drivers, partners and fans around the world.
Stefano dePonti, CEO of Dallara USA, highlighted the company’s honor in being chosen again by IndyCar after more than a decade of partnership. He stated that the category’s continued confidence is the greatest recognition of his team’s efforts. The new car reflects Dallara’s commitment to investing in innovation and education, sharing the knowledge developed in motorsport with academia and beyond, solidifying its leadership position.
