2018 IndyCar aerokit concepts unveiled

Jay Frye, IndyCar president of competition and operations, has unveiled a series of initial concept drawings for how the car might look at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS).

Without revealing specific details regarding the cars’ appearance, Frye has revealed the basic direction of next year’s kit, hot on the heels of him also announcing Dallara's chassis contract extension.

The most striking aspect, besides the car's overall resemblance to an updated and larger version of Dallara's IL15 Indy Lights car, is the removal of the air trumpet over the driver's head, which has allowed a low engine cover and sleeker rear bodywork.

An IndyCar statement revealed that there will be further updates at the 2017 preseason test in Phoenix, Feb. 10-11.

Currently the aim is to have a display car on show at the Indianapolis 500 in May, and for testing to begin in the summer months.

2017 marks the third and final season of IndyCar’s manufacturer-produced aerokits, which have brought mixed reviews from Honda and Chevrolet, team owners, drivers and fans. While the aerokits were developed from 2015 to the 2016 season, IndyCar has placed a blanket ban on development of the kits for 2017.

The 2018 universal aerokit, although spec, will allow development by the teams in strictly controlled areas, with various “boxes” being opened from year to year.