Alexander Rossi Tests the New IndyCar IR28 Chassis at IMS
Alexander Rossi becomes the first IndyCar driver to test the new IR28 chassis, praising its improved cockpit and smooth ride.
Key Takeaways
- Alexander Rossi is the first IndyCar driver to test the new IR28 chassis.
- The IR28 features a more spacious and ergonomic cockpit compared to the IR18.
- Rossi reports a remarkably smooth ride with minimal vibrations at speed.
- The new chassis is still in the early stages of development, with more testing needed to fine-tune its performance.
- IndyCar’s Vice President of Competition and Race Engineering, Mike O’Gara, is pleased with the car’s initial performance and is using the tests to identify areas for improvement.
What’s New in the IR28 Chassis?
The IR28 chassis is the first new IndyCar chassis since 2012, and it boasts several improvements over its predecessor, the IR18. One of the most noticeable differences is the more spacious and ergonomic cockpit, which offers better integration of cooling systems and improved driver comfort.
According to Rossi, the cockpit feels substantially different from the IR18, with more room for the driver and better ergonomics. He also praised the build quality of the car, noting that it feels smooth and vibration-free at speed.
While the IR28 may not feel drastically different from the IR18 in terms of performance, Rossi notes that it’s still early days for the new chassis, and more testing is needed to fine-tune its performance.
How Does the IR28 Handle on the Track?
Rossi reports that the IR28 handles remarkably well on the track, with a smooth ride and minimal vibrations at speed. He notes that the car feels like the IR18 in terms of braking and cornering, but with a more refined and comfortable driving experience.
Despite the rainy conditions during the test, Rossi was able to feel the car’s potential in the high-speed corners, noting that there was a good amount of load and grip.
What Are the Next Steps for the IR28 Chassis?
According to Mike O’Gara, IndyCar’s Vice President of Competition and Race Engineering, the next steps for the IR28 chassis involve continued testing and development to identify areas for improvement. The team is using the tests to flush out any issues with the car’s plumbing system and to identify areas where wires and hoses may chafe or vibrate.
O’Gara notes that it’s rare for a new race car to run smoothly from the start, but the IR28 has already shown promise in its initial tests.
How Does the IR28 Compare to the IR18?
While the IR28 may not feel drastically different from the IR18 in terms of performance, it boasts several improvements over its predecessor. The new chassis features a more spacious and ergonomic cockpit, improved cooling systems, and a smoother ride.
Rossi notes that the IR28 feels like the IR18 in terms of braking and cornering, but with a more refined and comfortable driving experience.
What Does the Future Hold for the IR28 Chassis?
The IR28 chassis is set to replace the IR18 in the season after next, and IndyCar is confident that it will be a successful and competitive car. With continued testing and development, the IR28 is poised to become a top contender in the IndyCar series.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who was the first IndyCar driver to test the new IR28 chassis?
Alexander Rossi was the first IndyCar driver to test the new IR28 chassis.
Q: What are some of the key improvements in the IR28 chassis compared to the IR18?
The IR28 features a more spacious and ergonomic cockpit, improved cooling systems, and a smoother ride.
Q: How did the IR28 handle on the track during the test?
The IR28 handled remarkably well on the track, with a smooth ride and minimal vibrations at speed.
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Cockpit Space | More spacious and ergonomic compared to IR18 |
| Cooling Systems | Improved integration of cooling systems |
| Ride Quality | Smooth ride with minimal vibrations at speed |
