IndyCar drops new engine for 2024, will still become hybrid

IndyCar has decided not to introduce its planned new 2.4-litre engine for 2024, and has elected to add the new hybrid unit to the current 2.2-litre engine instead.

The introduction of the 2.4-litre engine had already been delayed from 2023 due to “ongoing global supply chain challenges” back in March this year, and today’s news is the latest blow for the series’ new regulations.

The 2.2-litre unit will continue in use, having been introduced along with the series’ current chassis in 2012.

IndyCar and the manufacturers have not publicised the reason for the change.

Paddock rumour has indicated that the cost of the project or production delays – potentially both – meant the manufacturers had to choose between moving forwards with hybrid technology or the new 2.4 litre engine, and not both.

Although the press release from IndyCar did say the engine plan had been paused rather than stopped entirely, there is now no timeframe for its introduction.

“The 2.2-litre IndyCar engines supplied by Honda and Chevrolet have provided the most competitive racing in the world,” said series president Jay Frye.

“The 2024 hybrid engine package will provide even more excitement with horsepower increases over the current engine.”

The 2.4-litre and hybrid package was supposed to take horsepower over 900bhp for the current car.