Newgarden says Aeroscreen will demand different setup and driving style

Josef Newgarden

On the Team Penske IndyCar Conference call Wednesday, Newgarden said that the addition of the Aeroscreen will force drivers to adapt by altering their car setups and driving styles heading into this season.

“I think it brings a bit more comfort to driving the car with the weight moved forward naturally. I think there’s a bit more mechanical stability in the car inherently.

“Also it can have some uncomfortable traits as well depending on how you tune the racecar."

The Aeroscreen frame is made from 3D printed titanium and, combined with the ballistic shield, weighs more than 45 pounds. This weight sits very high on the car, producing the changes in handling that now have to be accounted for.

“I think everyone is going to have a very interesting time trying to figure out what works best for them," continued Newgarden.

“I think you’re going to see people power sliding the car a lot more, being aggressive on the throttle, maybe slide the car a bit more friendly and get away with it.

“That could be quite exciting, especially on a street course. I think you’ll see some guys doing some exciting maneuvers with it."

“As a driver you like change, the opportunity to try and shine at something new.

“Yeah, we just need to make sure we’re on top of it when we get to St. Pete next week."