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IndyCar Series Engine Discussions Moving Forward
- Updated: February 3, 2009
Big Bend, WI (February 3, 2009) – Details and plans are moving forward regarding new engine rules for the IndyCar Series albeit a bit slower due to the current economic situation. Indy Racing League officials confirmed in a conference call that five engine manufacturers, Honda Performance Development, Audi, Fiat Powertrain Technologies, Porsche and Volkswagen are continuing to move forward by their participation in the IndyCar Series Automotive Manufacturers Roundtables.
Participating in today’s conference call were, Brian Barnhart, the president of competition and racing operations for the Indy Racing League. Terry Angstadt, president of the commercial division of the Indy Racing League, and Erik Berkman, president of Honda Performance Development.
The trio discussed plans for introducing the new engine formula which was scheduled for the 2011 season, however Barnhart did admit it may be moved forward, “As much as we’d like 2011, to be honest with you, if I had to say while I mentioned we’re waiting on a manufacturer in the next 60 days, and that is perhaps for 2011, my gut tells me in this economic environment and situation, we’re probably looking more toward 2012 now. I wouldn’t rule out 2011. But it most certainly and likely could be pushed back to 2012.”
It appears that ethanol bio-fuel, remains an option, as ICS officials continue to discuss and refine specifications for the new engine. The press release stated that the aforementioned five automotive manufacturers and with six world-renowned specialty race engine design companies — that are providing ongoing discussion and counsel — in refining engine specifications that are expected to be finalized within the next several months, including:

Steve Zautke, a Milwaukee, WI native, was raised in the sport of auto racing. His father, Bill, was a movie photographer that shot racing footage at tracks such as the Milwaukee Mile and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in the 1960’s and 1970’s Steve’s first professional job in racing was as an Emergency Medical Technician at tracks such as Angell Park and Hales Corners Speedway (1988-1991). Steve has also worked for the Milwaukee Mile as videographer, in media relations and historian (1993-2011). Steve also has worked as a reporter for Racing Information Systems (RIS) and has written features for ‘Vintage Oval Racing’ and ‘Victory Lane’ magazines. Most recently, Steve has written a book on Road America for Arcadia Publishing. ( http://www.amazon.com/Road-America-Nascar-Library-Collection/dp/1467111457 ) Steve co-hosts “Sparky’s Final Inspection” a motorsports-based radio show with hosts, Steve “Sparky” Fifer and “NASCAR Girl” Summer Santana on Sports Radio 1250AM in Milwaukee and is also available on the internet at www.Sportradio1250.com. A member of the National Sprint Car Hall of Fame Induction Committee, Steve follows all types of racing from the dirt tracks to Formula One.