ICONIC committee member Tony Purnell has challenged the world's leading automotive and aerospace companies to use the next generation of IndyCar chassis to prove their skills.
Purnell was one of seven members of the Indy racing League's ICONIC (Innovative, Competitive, Open-Wheel, New, Industry-Relevant, Cost-Effective) advisory panel that voted for the open aerodynamic regulations for the series' future, based around a spec Dallara chassis to be introduced in 2012, that were announced today in Indianapolis. Constructors and teams will be allowed to create their own aero kits, including front and rear wings, sidepods and engine covers.
"Come on Ford, GM, Lotus, Ferrari. Come on Lockheed Martin, Boeing, General Electric. Come on you engineers working in your garage or in small shops," Purnell said. "We've done our best to provide a framework for all of you to showcase your technical prowess without a need for a major raid on your piggy banks. We want you guys involved, all of you."
Indy 500 winner and current team boss Gil de Ferran was another member of the committee and is confident that the rules will help the series to flourish.
"This unique and groundbreaking concept embraces innovation and competition, very much in keeping with IndyCar traditions, while at the same time achieving the impossible – reducing the cost of entry and competition," said de Ferran. "By the use of standard parts and supply rules, the IndyCar Series ensures the cost is under control and teams have access to the latest and greatest. By encouraging multiple manufacturers to supply bodywork parts and, essentially, brand the cars, IndyCar brings in the innovation and competition many of us were looking for."