IRL explores its engine options

0 Comments | USA TODAY, June, 2008 | by Travis Braun

The IRL IndyCar Series will likely look and sound different by 2011, based on what emerged Tuesday from the circuit's first of several roundtable discussions with at least six potential engine manufacturers at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

Brian Barnhart, IRL president of competition and operations, expects up to four engine manufacturers with the series by 2011. Honda, which provides engines now and extended its contract for five years in May, would have its first rival since 2005.

Honda's IndyCar experience, though, could deter some manufacturers. Dan Davis, director of Ford Racing Technology, said this month he has no desire to take on the Japanese behemoth. But Barnhart expects changing engine specifications will weaken most of Honda's advantage.

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