P1racenews AI automatic summary:
If you liked the first-time use of push-to-pass during qualifying for an NTT IndyCar Series event at the recent visit to The Thermal Club, something similar is on the way in a few months’ time. For…
The push-to-pass system was successfully tested during the recent NTT IndyCar Series event at The Thermal Club, leading to similar enhancements in the upcoming $1 Million Challenge heats at the venue. This system provides drivers with 40 seconds of extra power, around 50hp, to optimize their lap times. Pietro Fittipaldi of Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing commended the pressure and strategy elements the push-to-pass feature added to qualifying, emphasizing the need for careful planning to maximize its benefits and avoid traffic. The integration of push-to-pass in qualifying marks a departure from its exclusive use on race days at road and street courses, as IndyCar aims to innovate and adjust to upcoming changes in hybridized powertrain technology. The upcoming transition to hybrid powertrains this summer will introduce the use of energy recovery systems, allowing drivers to deploy additional horsepower boosts in qualifying, thereby enhancing the competitive dynamics in the races. The ongoing testing and development of hybrid systems will shape the future regulations governing the use of energy recovery systems in IndyCar competitions, reflecting the sport’s commitment to technological advancement and excitement for both drivers and fans.
