IndyCar Considers Transition to Aluminum Wheels

IndyCar is considering a significant shift in its wheel materials by 2026 or 2027, moving away from the magnesium wheels that have been a staple of the series for decades. Known for their lightweight properties, magnesium wheels have long been a preferred choice for racing. However, sourcing the large castings required for these specialized wheels has become increasingly challenging, prompting the series to explore alternatives.

A New Era for IndyCar Wheels

The NTT IndyCar Series is reportedly in discussions with teams about transitioning to aluminum wheels after the 2025 season. Aluminum, a more readily available and commonly used material, can be cast or forged in high volumes, making it a practical solution to the current scarcity of magnesium.

This potential switch would bring several advantages. Aluminum wheels could closely replicate the performance of magnesium wheels while addressing the growing issues of age-related corrosion that have plagued older magnesium units. Many IndyCar teams have relied on stockpiles of these “aero” wheels, designed with a front-wheel lip to enhance airflow. However, the corrosion problem has rendered many unusable over time.

Collaboration with O.Z. Racing

O.Z. Racing, the leading supplier of magnesium wheels for IndyCar, is in talks with the series to produce aluminum wheels in the same size and design as the current magnesium models. Maintaining a comparable weight to the magnesium wheels is a top priority in the development process to ensure that performance on the track remains unaffected.

Cost Benefits of Aluminum

Switching to aluminum could also lead to significant cost savings for teams. Currently, a single magnesium wheel costs $1,650, or $6,600 for a complete set of four. By adopting aluminum wheels, teams could see a price reduction of approximately $750 or more per set. This cost-efficiency is a major incentive for the change, given the high volume of wheels required for a full season.

Impact on Teams

With 27 full-time entries in the IndyCar series, teams typically start the season with 10–12 sets of wheels per car, equating to 40–48 wheels. Throughout the season, teams must replace wheels damaged in crashes or worn down by competition, maintaining at least 10 sets per car. The transition to aluminum could ease the financial and logistical burden of maintaining these extensive inventories.

Looking Ahead

While final specifications for the aluminum wheels have not yet been determined, the move signals IndyCar’s commitment to staying ahead of challenges in supply chains and materials. If approved, this transition could mark the beginning of a new era for the series, balancing tradition with innovation.