IRL committee to advise on future car

The board is to comprise an IRL representative, a team owner, an engine expert, a promoter and an engineer, and will be primarily responsible for advising on the proposals that have been put forward for the next generation of IndyCar chassis by BAT Engineering, Dallara, DeltaWing, Lola and Swift.

"The search for a new chassis and engine has been about enhancing innovation in our sport and renewing IndyCar as the automotive industry's proving ground," said IRL CEO Randy Bernard.

"As the league moves closer to making a decision regarding our new chassis and engine platform, we need to continue to have an articulate process that sets the criterion in a timely manner, while taking into consideration the core areas of car development in our sport: competition, marketing, engineering, engine development and team ownership.

"Terry Angstadt and Brian Barnhart have done an outstanding job researching and developing the future car for the past two years. Now we would like for the members of the advisory committee to review the research and make a collective recommendation, utilising their respective industry sector's point of view.

"Just as equally important in this process are the drivers and fans. The advisory committee will be encouraged to reach out to the drivers for their feedback and opinions about the engine and chassis. Additionally, we are currently conducting surveys to receive fan input on the new chassis and will look for similar ways to incorporate their voice into the committee's research in the future."

The committee will be chaired by retired United States Air Force general William Looney III, who was responsible for the recruiting, training and education of Air Force personnel. It will report its findings to Bernard, who will make the final decision.

Each full-time IndyCar team will have cast one vote to select the team boss, while Bernard will select the other members. The IRL will announce the committee members next week, with a final recommendation expected by the end of July.

The IRL has held several meetings with car manufacturers and engine builders throughout the last years to discuss the series' future power unit.

"We want a relevant engine platform that is strategically aligned with major automotive manufacturers' existing and future programmes and initiatives, so we can maintain and expand our position in race-bred technology," added Bernard.