Behind the scenes, teams, manufacturers and Dallara engineers are already deep into simulator work, wind tunnel testing and mule chassis development for the next generation car. On track, that process is expected to move from private evaluations to structured test days in the coming seasons, with controlled outings at select circuits where series officials can gather data and TV cameras can offer fans a first look. It is the same pattern that marked the run up to the original DW12 introduction, where the future quietly shared the track with the present in dedicated test windows before taking over the grid.
The current package, introduced in 2012 and updated with aeroscreen safety and hybrid hardware in stages, has delivered some of the closest competition in open wheel racing. But the pressure to modernise on efficiency, safety and styling has grown, especially as rival series roll out fresh designs. IndyCar’s next car is expected to build on lessons from the aeroscreen, integrate hybrid systems more cleanly, and sharpen the visual identity of the series, all while keeping costs in line for the largely independent team base. Early tests will be critical to proving that balance, and they will also be the first chance for fans to assess whether the future looks and sounds like the IndyCar they love.
For now, the DW12 and 2.2 liter hybrids still have titles to decide and Indianapolis 500s to contest. But somewhere in the paddock, covered by tarps and surrounded by engineers, the next generation is almost ready to roll. When those cars finally break cover in test sessions, it will mark the moment the series’ future stops being a concept sketch and starts becoming a reality at 230 miles an hour.
