New IndyCar engine to be delayed

Today IRL President Brian Barnhart said that although 2011 is still a possibility for the league to introduce their new IndyCar engine, it's looking increasingly likely that it will be 2012. The new engine will be smaller, lighter, yet more powerful and the goal is still a turbo inline 4 or V6 configuration. They are looking for similar performance at Indy, increased performance on the street and road courses, and reduced performance on the high-banked ovals.

Series officials revealed Tuesday that Honda, Audi, Fiat, Porsche and Volkswagen remained in negotiations about building a new engine. Brian Barnhart, the IRL's president of competition, says one manufacturer would be seeking approval for competing in IndyCar from its board within the next 60 days.