P1racenews AI automatic summary:
The combination of higher cornering speeds due to the recent repaving of Iowa Speedway and the recent addition of 105 lbs of weight with the NTT IndyCar Series’ new energy recovery systems has led …
Due to the recent repaving of Iowa Speedway and the addition of 105 lbs of weight with the NTT IndyCar Series’ new energy recovery systems, downforce has been reduced for this weekend’s Hy-Vee doubleheader on the 0.875-mile oval. The rear wing level has been limited to hole three of six with a wicker, resulting in 10 percent less downforce, approximately 450 lbs less. The downforce adjustments were made in 10-percent increments, with the optional wicker further decreasing downforce if desired. Data from last week’s test at Iowa and electronic load sensors on the cars guided the decision to reduce loading by 450 lbs for safety reasons. Despite having a significant amount of downforce available, the reduction could lead to more lifting in corners and potentially extend tire life for drivers. This event at Iowa also marks IndyCar’s first hybrid oval race, with a per-lap limit of 105 kilojoules of hybrid energy expenditure set for teams, factorizing in the 60 added horsepower for a performance boost during laps within a 17-second range.
