## What Kind of Engines Are in Indy Cars?
Indy cars are the pinnacle of open-wheel racing. They’re the fastest and most powerful cars on the planet, and they’re powered by some of the most advanced engines in the world.
But what kind of engines are in Indy cars? Let’s take a closer look.
The History of Indy Car Engines
The first Indy cars were powered by four-cylinder engines. These engines were small and lightweight, and they produced around 100 horsepower. Over time, the engines in Indy cars became more powerful. In the 1920s, six-cylinder engines became the norm, and in the 1930s, eight-cylinder engines were introduced.
By the 1950s, Indy cars were powered by some of the most powerful engines in the world. These engines produced over 500 horsepower, and they could propel an Indy car to speeds of over 200 mph.
In the 1960s, turbocharged engines were introduced to Indy cars. These engines produced even more power than naturally aspirated engines, and they helped Indy cars break the 250 mph barrier.
In the 1970s, the turbocharged era came to an end. The engines in Indy cars became smaller and less powerful, but they were also more fuel-efficient. This was due to the oil crisis of the 1970s, which led to a decrease in the availability of gasoline.
In the 1980s, the turbocharged era returned to Indy cars. These engines produced over 800 horsepower, and they helped Indy cars reach speeds of over 270 mph.
In the 1990s, the turbocharged era ended again. The engines in Indy cars became smaller and less powerful, but they were also more fuel-efficient. This was due to the increasing cost of fuel.
In the 2000s, the naturally aspirated era returned to Indy cars. These engines produce less power than turbocharged engines, but they are also more fuel-efficient.
The Current Engines in Indy Cars
The current engines in Indy cars are 2.2-liter, twin-turbocharged V6 engines. These engines produce around 700 horsepower, and they can propel an Indy car to speeds of over 230 mph.
The engines are all built by Chevrolet and Honda. Chevrolet has supplied the engines for Indy cars since 1986, and Honda has supplied the engines since 2003.
The engines are all sealed, which means that they cannot be modified by the teams. This is to ensure that all of the teams are on a level playing field.
The Future of Indy Car Engines
The future of Indy car engines is unclear. Some believe that the engines will become smaller and more fuel-efficient in the future. Others believe that the engines will become more powerful.
Only time will tell what the future holds for Indy car engines. However, one thing is for sure: the engines in Indy cars will continue to be some of the most advanced and powerful engines in the world.
Conclusion
The engines in Indy cars are some of the most advanced and powerful engines in the world. They are constantly being developed and improved, and they play a major role in the performance of Indy cars.
