Reigning IndyCar champion Scott Dixon will test the new Dallara IL-15 Indy Lights car next month to assist in developing the chassis ahead of its race debut next year.
Dixon, who won the Lights title in 2000, will be joined by James Hinchcliffe for a two-day test on the IMS road course on September 5 and 6 as work continues to finalise the car’s specifications ahead of full-scale production.
“I’m excited to see the new car and the direction the series is taking,” said Dixon. “It’s a very important stepping-stone on the road to the IndyCar Series.
“I look forward to driving the new car at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway road course and hope to help with the ongoing development.”
Hinchcliffe, who won three Lights races on his way to second in the 2010 championship, said that he is excited to be involved with developing the new-generation car.
“Helping to develop this race car is a cool opportunity,” he said. “I am a big believer in the Lights series; racing in Indy Lights made me the driver I am and prepared me to step up to IndyCar.
“I think this new car is a big step in revitalising the series. Being in on the ground level and helping to push the series in this direction is something I am looking forward to.”
The IL-15 was track-tested for the first time by Tristan Vautier at Mid-Ohio two weeks ago, with Vautier and Conor Daly then sharing the driving duties for its first oval test at Indianapolis a few days later.
Five additional days of testing are scheduled before Dixon and Hinchcliffe take the wheel, with a four-day outing on the IMS road course set to begin on August 18, followed by a day at the Milwaukee Mile on August 27.
“Conor and Tristan are doing a fantastic job but it’s always good to get other drivers’ perspectives for both the good and the bad,” said Tony Cotman, who oversaw the design process of the new car.
“Hopefully any bugs will be worked out by then and [Dixon and Hinchcliffe] can get in and drive the hell out of it.”
