INDYCAR: Brake vendor change explored at test

Verizon IndyCar Series teams could have a new brake vendor to work with in the near future. The most heavily criticized component on the Dallara DW12 chassis was subject to a blind test at Road America where multiple drivers were asked to evaluate three carbon braking systems.

Current vendor Brembo, longtime IndyCar brake supplier PFC and Carlisle Brake & Friction, the parent company of recent Team Penske sponsor Hawk Performance, had their products tested by Chip Ganassi Racing's Tony Kanaan, among others, and the 19-year IndyCar veteran says one package stood out from the others.

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"We tried three different manufacturers, Brembo and another two, and I found something I was really happy with and consistent that was up to the standard IndyCar was looking for," the 2013 Indy 500 winner told RACER. "Hopefully they will go that direction."

Based on feedback from multiple sources, it's believed PFC's braking solution provided the performance and consistency that IndyCar drivers have been seeking since the DW12's introduction. The brake vendor evaluation was part of a larger agenda by IndyCar that includes possible changes to the use of aero kits, added cockpit safety measures and other technical developments that would carry the series into the next decade.

According to IndyCar competition president Jay Frye, the blind brake test was a success and generated the feedback the series needed to make an informed decision on whether Brembo or another company will outfit the field.

"The best part is that we have three companies that want to be part of IndyCar's future," Frye said. "The braking piece is part of the overall equation and will be part of what we unveil in a few weeks. The test matrix we did was blind, the drivers weren't told what was going on the car, and there was definitely an enthusiasm for one more than the others."

It's also believed that with numerous sole-supply contracts coming up for renewal, the current brake vendor agreement would need to be completed before an extension or switch is possible.

"We're sorting through going that direction to see if we can make something happen or not," Frye added. "It was great to see the enthusiasm of those companies and all three want to help us to improve in this area."