Some IndyCar teams using Reynard for wind tunnel models

Photo of a car with the old bodykits in the Reynard ARC wind tunnel

Former Champ Car chassis builder Reynard is working with IndyCar teams to help maximize Dallara's universal aerokit, Autosport reports.

"Race teams and engine manufacturers in IndyCar are free to measure and improve the car performance by testing in the wind tunnels, running CFD, or whatever," said Dallara's head of R&D and US business leader, Andrea Toso.

"There are a few details which are subject to optimization like radiator inlet shuttering, ride heights and brake scoop blanking, provided that they use the approved parts. It is normal."

IndyCar moved the series closer to a spec category and that drew criticism from Penske because it was one less are he could outspend the other teams to gain an advantage.

But the universal aerokit can be developed in certain areas, primarily by modifying the set-up of the car, as long as approved parts are used.

The company's founder Adrian Reynard confirmed to Autosport that he is now working with IndyCar teams.

"We're moving back into IndyCar," Reynard told Autosport. "We're testing with various teams who want to benchmark the car.

"They'd like to map the car and they'd like to see if there are any free improvements that they can get.

"It's a restricted formula but you are allowed to change some things."

Reynard added that the development involves aerodynamic testing with a 50% car model in his Auto Research Center windtunnel in Indianapolis.

"Basically, it's about setting up, arriving at the track with the right aerodynamic drag-downforce distribution and understanding how the car reacts at different ride heights and roll angles and pitch angles," he said.

"It's essentially the same one [windtunnel] that Toro Rosso uses in Formula 1, and it's the same one Mercedes used until they inherited that big Honda windtunnel.

"I built it 20 years ago in Indianapolis, and it's still very relevant today."