IndyCar announces new testing rules
Full-season IndyCar Series teams will have a total of 18 test days to be used in any combination of engine manufacturer tests, team tests, Open Tests, straight line and full-sized wind tunnel tests through the 2014 season finale at Auto Club Speedway.
"Our objective was to structure the testing rules so that everybody had equal opportunity and an equal number of days," said Derrick Walker, president, competition and operations, INDYCAR. "Rather than INDYCAR designating specific numbers for each category of testing, the onus is on teams to utilize days as they feel is best for their individual program."
Additionally, IndyCar Series teams can receive two bonus days by testing a current Indy Lights driver. Teams will have two additional days for testing rookie drivers and any new entrant will have four additional offseason team test days in addition to its allotment of 18 days.
Open Tests will be held at three venues that host 2014 IndyCar Series events:
• Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Ala., will be the site of spring training on Monday, March 17, and Tuesday, March 18, for the second consecutive year. Spring training is mandatory for all Leaders Circle entrants.
• The newly modified Indianapolis Motor Speedway road course will host an Open Test on Wednesday, April 30, in advance of the inaugural Grand Prix of Indianapolis.
• The 2-mile Auto Club Speedway oval will host an Open Test on Wednesday, Aug. 27, in advance of the 500-mile season finale under the lights.
Engine manufacturers Chevrolet and Honda have five on-track test days. Mileage amassed while using a manufacturer development engine does not count against a team's maximum of 10,000 miles during team tests, Open Tests and race events in a calendar year.