IndyCar aero kit decision on the horizon
INDYCAR has received deposits from three prospective manufacturers/suppliers and two others have requested an extension of the deadline to commit to the program for 2013 and 2014. INDYCAR released final regulations to interested companies May 14.
The aero kit concept was announced along with the introduction of the 2012 Dallara chassis in July 2010 to allow visible bodywork diversity.
"It's exciting. It's something we've worked very hard on," Bernard said. "It's all about economics for the team owners, and the one thing is we have data to look at that we didn't a month ago was the Indy 500. The cars raced really well. That's something we're going to weigh — the raceability of this car.
"The series has to continue to stay focused on its long term. If this car hadn't raced well, I guarantee there would have been aero kits. It has raced so well this year is that aero kit that important?"
Cars would be differentiated by styling of components provided in the regulations, with the car name incorporating the supplier for brand identity. Approved suppliers will design and develop the aero kits, and, upon INDYCAR approval, may charge teams a maximum of $75,000 per complete kit. Dallara officials had previously said it will not make an aero kit.
“Some companies may see this as exciting training for their engineers or as a means to showcase their hardware for aerodynamic development," INDYCAR vice president of technology Will Phillips said. "Others, such as automotive companies, may see this as a way to enhance their North American brand presence." IndyCar.com