The current IndyCar is known for being one of the most physically demanding single-seaters to drive, notably because it does not have power steering: this feature could change in 2028.
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For now, the new Dallara IR-28 single-seater (photo above) is designed without power steering, but IndyCar plans to test an electric assistance system similar to those used in endurance racing.
Mike O’Gara, IndyCar’s vice president, explains that several tests will be conducted to determine if this assistance is really necessary and, if so, on which types of circuits. The assistance could thus be used only on road or street circuits, where steering effort is the greatest.
For better safety
Felix Rosenqvist acknowledges that the absence of power steering is part of IndyCar’s DNA and contributes to its demanding nature. When he arrived in the series, he was actually surprised by the physical effort required, particularly difficult to anticipate for drivers coming from lower categories.
The Swede nevertheless believes that driver safety must now be taken into account. Several competitors, including Mick Schumacher, Alexander Rossi, and Romain Grosjean, have suffered hand or wrist injuries in recent years following accidents.
According to him, an adjustable power steering system, allowing gradual adaptation of the assistance level according to circuits or drivers’ preferences, would represent a good compromise between preserving the physical character of the series and reducing the risk of injuries.
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Rosenqvist also points out that spectators would probably notice no difference on screen, while the benefits for drivers could be significant, both in terms of comfort and safety.
A striking design
Beyond this possible evolution, the driver is very enthusiastic about the new IR-28. He believes the project meets many requests made over several years, with improvements regarding safety, cooling, driving position, and ease of work for the teams.
He also praises the car’s design, which he finds more successful in reality than in the initial renders. According to him, every element of the bodywork was designed with a specific goal: to improve aerodynamic efficiency, reduce turbulence to allow cars to follow each other more closely, and offer even more spectacular races.
For Rosenqvist, winner of this year’s Indy 500 and whose future transfer to McLaren covers the next two seasons, IndyCar has clearly prioritized the quality of the spectacle while developing a faster, safer, and more enjoyable single-seater to drive.
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