IndyCar 101: The IndyCar

The upcoming section of the IndyCar 101 Series focuses on the anatomy of an IndyCar. We will examine the chassis, engines, and tires and how these components can vary depending on the track.

Indy 101: The DW12 Chassis

All IndyCar teams use the same Dallara-brand chassis, which many fans know as the DW12 after the late Dan Wheldon, who helped test the design. The DW12 debuted in 2012 and has had several major updates including the 2018 universal Aerokit and the 2020 addition of the Aeroscreen.

IndyCar standardizes the aerodynamic elements of their cars using universal aero kits. This development has reduced expenses for the teams. It also contributed to an even greater level of competitiveness within the already closely matched IndyCar series.

While the major components are the same, IndyCar is not a spec series. There are many places for team development and innovation. Things like shock absorbers wing angles and other aero setups, tire pressure, and ride height are up to the teams to decide which setup works for the type of track it will drive on.

The chassis regulations can change based on track type. 

Weight: Approximately 1,785 pounds (road/street Courses). 1,775 pounds (short ovals configuration). 1,635 pounds (speedways configuration) which doesn’t include fuel, driver, drink bottle, and contents or driver equivalency weight.

Width: Front: 76.75 inches maximum, 75.75 inches minimum. 75.91 inches minimum and 76.91 inches maximum for ovals. Rear: 76.66 inches maximum, 75.66 inches minimum. 75.75 inches minimum and 76.91 inches maximum for ovals.

The Engine: Honda vs Chevrolet

For the 2025 season, IndyCar will have 11 full-time teams, with the newest addition of Prema. Teams are split between two engine manufacturers: Honda, and Chevrolet.

Each IndyCar has a 2.2-liter V-6 twin-turbocharged with hybrid technology. The technology, developed collaboratively with Chevrolet and Honda, was introduced last season at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course.

This hybrid system consists of the Motor Generator Unit (MGU) and the Energy Storage System (ESS). They are located in the bellhousing between the engine and the gearbox. The power unit creates and transfers energy via the MGU, storing it in the supercapacitor ESS. The additional horsepower is utilized through the same motor generator.