The NTT INDYCAR SERIES along with chassis manufacturer Dallara announced on Wednesday that a new strengthened rear-wheel wheel bearing retaining nut will be distributed to all entries for this weekend’s Iowa double-header.
The introduction of the new piece comes in light of Kyle Kirkwood’s accident at the 107th running of the Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge in May.
Speaking about the new component, President of INDYCAR Jay Frye said:
Dallara continues to be a tremendous partner of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES. “Their thorough review process of the incident between the No. 6 and the No. 27 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway began immediately and included an extensive recreation at their headquarters in Italy.
“INDYCAR takes safety very seriously. This update is an important step in making sure an incident like this does not happen again.”
Previously, it was determined that the wheel tether system, using high-performance Zylon material, did not fail in the May 28 incident.
INDYCAR was the first sanctioning body in the United States to require its use.
Dallara CEO Stefano dePonti commented saying:
It is Dallara’s mission, along with INDYCAR and all of the racing series we work with, to maintain and continuously improve safety based upon the highest standards.
After completing a detailed analysis of the accident during this year’s Indy 500, together with INDYCAR we have reached the conclusion that the outcome was the consequence of an unusual and never experienced set of circumstances.
“Nevertheless, we have developed and produced new components that will increase the strength of the corner in case the unlikely sequence of events repeats itself.”