Five Manufacturers Still in IRL Engine Talks

Today, I shall, for the first time ever, simply relay actual news instead of write an opinion piece.

IndyCar.com is reporting that five manufacturers—Honda, Audi, Fiat, Volkswagen, and Porsche—are still involved in talks over being involved as future IRL engine suppliers. The site reports that they are in a refinement stage, stating that they will be deciding on the following specifications:

● 4-stroke engines with reciprocating pistons
● Engine capacity not to exceed 2.0 liters
● Dual-overhead cam shaft with 4 valves per cylinder
● Single turbo charger systems will be permitted
● Direct injection systems will be permitted
● Continue the league's leadership position with the use of alternative fuels
● Engine life between rebuilds of 3,750 miles
● Five-year sealed engine homologation process that will define areas with possible annual updates
● Cost containment engine lease ceiling that is applicable to all participants

OK. I lied, I've got a few opinionated things to say about this:

First off, the article as-written appears to imply that all of these manufacturers have agreed in principle to supply engines to a specification at least close to the above, should financial circumstances in 2011 allow it.

If nothing else, this means there's a 90 percent chance we'll have at least two suppliers come 2011, probably more. I can't see both Audi and Volkswagen in the show at the same time for obvious reasons, but I see no reason they can't all come into the picture.

The manufacturer I see as least likely to come through in 2011 is Fiat, as I'm not convinced they're as dedicated to the U.S. market as they've indicated. They've been saying for ten years that Alfa was coming back to the U.S., but they kept delaying it. Unless the engines are to be Ferrari badged, I can't see Fiat bothering.

Secondly, as a mechanic who's worked on many different engines, let me assure you that the specs provided are EXCEPTIONALLY good. Two-liter engine capacity is right on the money for a good turbo engine—it's not too big, it's not too small, and it'll hold together under the pressure plenty well enough.

Although there's no agreement indicated on number of pistons, a two-liter engine will work great for either four or six-cylinder, and I get the feeling that they may be planning to leave this aspect open for each manufacturer.

This is good for Audi, as it's believed they want to bring diesel into the picture and a four-cylinder turbo-diesel might be a little weak for a racing engine.

All in all, things are looking much brighter for the 2011 IndyCar specs. Good news like this is what will generate interest in the series leading up to 2011, and hopefully keep the series alive until then.

You can read the full article on IndyCar.com at this link.