INDYCAR has updated aerodynamic specifications for the July 7 Pocono INDYCAR 400 Fueled by Sunoco following feedback from drivers, engineers and teams on various configurations during testing at the 2.5-mile tri-oval.
INDYCAR officials updated Rule 14.6.5.5 as listed in the 2013 IZOD IndyCar Series rulebook, adding the underwing strake to the list of optional parts for the Pocono aerodynamic specification to create more downforce.
The aero platform works in conjunction with Firestone Firehawk tires provided for practice, qualifying and the 160-lap race (noon ET on ABC).
The Pocono tire specification features the same left-side tire specification used at Indianapolis in May, combined with the same right-side tire spec run at Texas in June. This is a change in specification from what was run at the June 25 manufacturer/team test at Pocono. Following analysis of data from the testing, it was decided a more durable right-side tire specification is necessary for the race weekend.
Each entrant will receive four sets of tires for the July 4 Open Test (9 a.m.-5 p.m. ET; free and open to the public) and 12 sets for the race weekend.
“I am proud of the way everyone at Firestone Racing reacted so quickly to make this change of tire specification," Firestone Racing chief engineer Dale Harrigle said. "The decision was made to provide our best tires possible to adapt to the track and conditions expected on race weekend. The Pocono Open Test this week will give teams an opportunity to try out the race set-up, so that they are familiar with its performance characteristics before the official event weekend commences.”