Inside IndyCar's IR-28: New images of 2028 chassis

IndyCar unveiled its next-generation IR-28 chassis on Friday, ahead of a significant milestone for the series. The new car, set to debut on the Indianapolis Motor Speedway road course, is a clean-sheet design created in partnership with Dallara, marking the first time IndyCar has moved away from its long-serving DW12 platform. The IR-28 is scheduled to complete its first on-track laps this weekend during initial testing, with Alexander Rossi from Ed Carpenter Racing driving on Saturday and Alex Palou from Chip Ganassi Racing taking the wheel on Sunday.

The development strategy involves a crawl, walk, run approach, with the initial test car using an off-the-shelf engine for chassis evaluations. Key advancements include increased horsepower from a new 2.4-liter engine, a 100-pound weight reduction, and a hybrid unit with 14 times the energy-storage capacity. The car's design aims to break track records across various circuit types, enhance raceability, and improve safety.

Aerodynamic features such as tire wake conditioners and anti-lift safety elements are integrated into the bodywork to facilitate deeper passing, particularly on high-speed ovals. The chassis also prioritizes ergonomics, cockpit safety, and driver comfort, featuring adjustable pedals and steering columns to ensure optimal helmet positioning and enhanced cooling systems.

The IR-28 is expected to enter full-scale production following testing, with engine manufacturers receiving development cars in late 2026 or early 2027, and hybrid systems introduced in the second quarter of 2027.