INDYCAR Series Aeroscreen Upgrade

This weekend, during the Acura Grand Prix in Long Beach, an updated and lighter version of the aeroscreen will be introduced on all cars. This version is part of the most recent safety updates in the series, developed in collaboration with Red Bull Advanced Technologies since the 2020 season. This safety device, featuring a ballistic windshield from PPG attached to a titanium frame produced by Pankl, was required by INDYCAR for use in all disciplines (ovals, permanent road courses, and temporary street circuits).

The lighter version 2.0 includes improvements such as vents to increase the driver's cooling and a duct at the top that directs air towards the driver's chest. The ducts are 3D printed with rubber to prevent hand injuries in case of an accident. Tino Belli, director of aerodynamic development for the INDYCAR SERIES, explained that the main goal of version 2.0 was to reduce weight, which was achieved along with an improvement in driver ventilation and a more streamlined design.

The new aeroscreen reduces its weight from 18.8 pounds to 14.5 pounds, while the topologically optimized titanium frame, also 3D printed and introduced at the start of the season, reduces its weight by 6.8 pounds. In total, the system's weight reduction is 11.1 pounds. This decrease in weight and improvements in safety also reduce the aerodynamic load by about 35 pounds, according to Belli.

The response from drivers to the original design indicated the need for more cooling, which was taken into account for this new version. During typical series races, a driver's heart rate reaches 85-95% of its capacity, that is, 150-200 beats per minute, and their body temperature can exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit, even with several layers of protective clothing.

An exhaustive evaluation identified the possibility of adding vents without needing a large redesign, taking advantage of the available space to improve air circulation towards the driver's chest. It is also possible to add an optional filter to the honeycomb mesh to filter out cockpit dust.

The introduction of this modified aeroscreen was moved up, as it was initially planned for the Indianapolis Motor Speedway GP in May. With enough units available, INDYCAR officials decided to implement this significant safety update in Long Beach.