IndyCar VP of technology predicts speed records for 2013

Track records might be coming to IndyCar after all, although it might not be until aerodynamic kit options are available in 2013, according to Will Phillips, the Izod IndyCar Series' vice president of technology.

The Dallara DW12 that began full testing this week at Sebring (Fla.) International Raceway delivered encouraging results during a recent wind-tunnel test at the Windshear facility in North Carolina. The results showed that the car can and should meet 2011 speeds at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

IndyCar, however, might have to harness speeds in 2013.

“As we look at aero kits for 2013, the car could be exceeding expectations as they reduce drag further," Phillips said. “But it's not always about aerodynamics. You have to mechanically set the car up to drive it, so it's always a balance.

“Aerodynamically, we've proven that it can happen but we haven't proven mechanically that we can set up the car to go that speed yet." AutoWeek