The introduction of hybrid engines in the IndyCar series has been delayed – some drivers, including ex-F1 driver Romain Grosjean, are “happy” about it
The American IndyCar Series was supposed to start with the new hybrid engine at the 2024 season opener on March 10 in St. Petersburg (Florida), but the debut will be postponed. Ex-Formula 1 driver Romain Grosjean, who will switch from Andretti to Junco’s Hollinger Racing in 2024, is pleased about this: “I think it was difficult for us,” says the Frenchman.
“When we had the drivers’ meeting at the beginning of December, the guys asked a question about the hybrid drive and I had no idea what they were talking about,” says the 37-year-old, admitting his lack of experience compared to the competition. “I’m definitely glad it was postponed.”
“It also allows us to start with a known concept on the car and go from there and see when the hybrid arrives,” Grosjean says confidently. “And hopefully by then we will have a lot more knowledge.”
The original plans to race with 2.4-liter engines with hybrid technology in the 2024 season were thrown overboard early on. Instead, hybrid technology is to be used in the tried-and-tested 2.2-liter V6 biturbo engine. However, due to reliability issues, the introduction has now been postponed until the second half of the season. This means that the legendary Indy 500 in May 2024 will be run without hybrid technology
Will Power: “There were no problems at all “
However, the drivers who took part in the extensive test drives had no problems with reliability. “I’ve done a few test days where you’ve driven all day, for two days, and there have been no problems,” says Penske driver Will Power. “No problems at all.”
“I think it’s a bit of everything, a bit of a supply problem and so on,” the two-time IndyCar champion suspects. “I think IndyCar wants the car to be absolutely bulletproof when it’s launched, so I think they’ve made the right decision.”
“The tests have gone well. The system has worked really well,” Power reports. “I think the way it’s packaged and everything else is really good. It just needs a bit more time. That’s all. I think they want to introduce it in such a way that there are absolutely no problems, and that’s the right way to go. “
