IndyCar looking to extend life of DW12?

Barring anything unforeseen, or any radical changes such as the X1 Series proposal, AR1 is hearing that INDYCAR is looking at ways of extending the life of the Dallara DW12 in the coming years. In fact, senior series officials held discussions with former F1 engineering talent late this summer and discussed ways in which the car could be modified. How formal or informal those discussions were, we don't know for sure.

However, the premise of the discussion seemed to be based on the notion that it would be more cost-effective to adapt the current platform than mothball the car in exchange for a new model. We also know that amongst the topics discussed were the aesthetics of the car, the removal of winglets and other costly parts, getting more air to flow under rather than over, and less aerodynamic grip in the hopes of making the cars more difficult to drive.

What will happen? It's too early to say. And we also still believe that a radical, big-picture makeover concept like X1 is the best way to re-engage fans and make the sport relevant again. However, if the costs of changing out cars can be avoided, and the current car adapted to create a more compelling formula, and return that 'spectacle' to the sport, we'd be all for it.

AR1 Staff Report