The Verizon IndyCar Series will undergo revised test limits that will see a maximum of 14 test days and no in-season, on-track team activity.
Under the new guidelines, IndyCar will see the re-introduction of open tests before selected races with the rejigged rules kicking in immediately after this weekend’s season-ending race at Fontana and in force until September 20, 2015.
Allowances have been made for the Firestone tyre tests, new or incoming teams and rookie drivers.
The 14 test day limit includes engine manufacturer tests, team tests, open tests and full-size wind tunnel testing.
Teams committed to the full season will be given a limit of 10,000 miles (16,000km) for all on-track activity from the first race or open test of 2015 to the end of the racing season.
“The reason for changing the testing regulations is about trying to contain the costs and fit into our new schedule,” IndyCar president of competition Derrick Walker said.
“Competition drives teams to test as much as they can because they’re trying to win races, but combined with the schedule it’s hard on the team members.
“Now we’re making provisions for race events to have promoter day tests, where the cars will be on the track and hopefully the promoter sees that as an opportunity to open up the stands for fans and sell race tickets.”
Barber Motorsports Park in Alabama will see the first open test booked for March 16-17 next year.
That test will be crucial with the new street and road course aero kits (delivered to teams on March 1) that will generate more downforce set to be seen in competitive action for the first time at St Petersburg season-opening race from March 27-29.
IndyCar will also use the Indy road course, Mid-Ohio Sports Car course and Sonoma for open tests.
“Barber has a lot of fast, sweeping corners – areas where you’ll really see the aero kits perform,” Walker said.
“The teams already have data and familiarity with Barber and Firestone has great tyres for that circuit. The teams can compare and relate to what they’ve done in the past while getting a handle on the aero kit.”
The 2014-15 offseason on-track testing period starts on September 16.
A total of six days of manufacturer aero kit testing with selected teams will be conducted from October 6 to January 18, 2015.
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