Honda has announced a multi-year agreement to continue supplying engines for the NTT INDYCAR SERIES through the 2027 season and beyond, solidifying its ongoing commitment to American open wheel racing. This partnership, managed by Honda Racing Corporation USA (HRC US), leverages over three decades of Honda’s racing experience in North America.
The deal also includes plans for the 2028 season, when a new V6 engine developed by HRC will power the updated Dallara INDYCAR chassis. This 2.4-liter twin-turbocharged engine will be complemented by a standardized low-voltage hybrid system, which will be uniform across all competing teams regardless of their engine supplier.
Transition to New Engines and Chassis in 2028
In 2027, IndyCar will maintain the existing engine and chassis specifications before introducing a new package the following year. The current setup, featuring the Dallara DW12 chassis and a 2.2-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, has been in place since 2012 and was enhanced in 2024 with a hybrid unit. The upcoming change will bring a fresh V6 engine and chassis design as the series aims to evolve its technology and performance standards.
Additionally, for the first time in IndyCar history, Honda and Chevrolet will be granted team ‘charters’ starting in 2028. This initiative will enable Honda Racing Corporation USA to enter a full-season team under the Honda banner, fostering further development of engineering talent and technology within the sport.
Honda’s Legacy of Success in American Open Wheel Racing
Honda’s involvement in American open wheel racing dates to 1994 with its participation in Championship Auto Racing Teams (CART). Just two years later, the company secured its first manufacturers’ and drivers’ championships. Since then, Honda has established itself as a dominant force in IndyCar, earning 298 victories out of 543 races, alongside 21 drivers’ titles, 11 manufacturers’ championships, and 16 wins at the Indianapolis 500.
The 2025 INDYCAR season was a standout year for Honda, as the manufacturer claimed victory in 10 consecutive races and won 12 of the 17 total events. This success led to Honda sweeping the drivers’, manufacturers’, and Rookie of the Year titles, capped by triumph at the prestigious Indianapolis 500 race.
Comments from Key Figures on the Extended Partnership
David Salters, President of Honda Racing Corporation USA, expressed enthusiasm about the renewed commitment:
“To our esteemed Honda fans, customers, and associates, we are thrilled to announce our ongoing participation in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES. With a deep respect for the history and competitive spirit of IndyCar racing, we are proud to continue our involvement after more than 30 years. This long-standing commitment strengthens our ability to allow us to further develop our people and technology at the pinnacle of open-wheel racing in North America.”
“The partnership between INDYCAR and FOX continues to grow bringing outstanding race coverage and elevating the experience for fans everywhere. The future of IndyCar looks incredibly bright, and we at Honda are honored to play a critical role in its continued success,”
Salters added.
NTT INDYCAR SERIES President Doug Boles highlighted the significance of this agreement:
“This is a monumental day for INDYCAR, fueled by a massive and historic commitment from two of our best and most trusted partners. Chevrolet and Honda have worked tirelessly with us over the last 12 months to get to this point and both have made it very clear that they are fully committed to this sport and invested in continuing the positive momentum the series generated in 2025.”
Implications for IndyCar’s Future Engine Development and Competition
The extension of Honda’s role as an engine supplier guarantees continued innovation and competition between OEMs in IndyCar racing. With the upcoming introduction of a new generation engine and chassis, the series is poised to enhance performance, reliability, and hybrid efficiency. Honda’s active role in fielding a full-season team from 2028 forward also underscores its dedication to developing racing talent and advancing technology within North America’s premier open wheel competition.
This multi-year deal offers optimism for fans and stakeholders alike, as it promises to sustain the series’ growth and excitement well into the new decade. Both Honda and Chevrolet’s deeper investments signal a stable and competitive landscape, likely driving advancements that extend beyond the track.
