IndyCar: how the hybrid arrived and the end of the DW12 approaches in 2028

Understand the evolution of IndyCar technology: 2.2 L V6 turbo engine and hybrid with supercapacitors, focusing on the 2028 package.

The 2026 IndyCar season kicks off in St. Petersburg, and the grid technology carries an impressive legacy. The car in use today is already linked to a history dating back to 2012, with updates that have kept it relevant, including the introduction of the aero screen in 2019.

Engine, power, and overtaking rules

• Engine: 2.2 L twin turbo V6, supplied by Honda or Chevrolet
• Power: between 550 hp and 750 hp, adjustable according to the type of circuit

With fixed aerodynamics and no DRS, overtakes demand additional resources such as push to pass, activated by a button on the steering wheel with rules for duration per lap and total use per race.

The next step: hybrid

To keep up with evolution, a hybrid system was incorporated that can add up to 100 hp in short bursts. Energy is recharged during braking, in a style similar to KERS, and the driver controls everything via the steering wheel.

The technical challenge was fitting the MGU, power electronics, and energy storage into the already compact space of the car. The DW12 chassis, about 10 years old, did not have tank space for storage, and there was no free area for the MGU around the engine/transmission.

Thus, the system was installed in the bell housing space between the engine and the transmission, resulting in a compact layout that accommodated the hybrid unit.

Initially, the hybrid package was to be supplied by an external partner, but during the project, Honda and Chevrolet began sharing development — an unusual partnership between rivals.

How it works in practice

• Energy powers the MGU, which can restart the engine or move the car in electric mode
• Supercapacitors provide fast power but do not retain energy for long periods
• Electronics distribute energy to the MGU, to the 12V system, and to the ignition/injection systems

The system recovers energy under braking and returns it as immediate torque, offering an advantage coming out of corners. Although it met its objectives, there were criticisms regarding mass balance, with a tendency for increased weight at the rear.

IndyCar keeps the hybrid package and plans a new package for the entire car in 2028, ending the DW12 era after 16 years of service — a remarkable run.

Summary and future outlook

In summary, IndyCar's technological advancement combines a powerful engine, an additional overtaking resource with push to pass, and a compact hybrid system, which divides opinions on mass balance but remains central to future planning.

Which aspect of IndyCar's technological evolution do you consider most revolutionary: the hybrid with supercapacitors or the push to pass system? Leave your opinion in the comments.