IndyCar to introduce Red Bull-developped aeroscreen in 2020

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The US IndyCar series will introduce into its series in 2020 an aeroscreen cockpit safety device developed by Red Bull Advanced Technologies.

The device follows the development undertaken by Red Bull for Formula 1 several years ago but which was eventually discarded for the benefit of the halo.

RBAT says the enhanced driver safety technology is designed to reduce the risk of injury from flying debris or other objects striking the cockpit area.

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It consists of a wraparound ballistic screen anchored to the car’s cockpit by a titanium framework.

When fitted, the device’s load-bearing capability is expected to be 150 kiloNewtons, equivalent to that of the Halo device currently used in Formula One.

Additionally, the laminated polycarbonate screen will include an anti-reflective coating on the interior of the screen, an integrated anti-fogging heating element and possibly tear-offs, all of which will be produced by associated third-party companies.

"Since the first prototypes were developed and demonstrated in 2016, the potential of Aeroscreen to improve the safety for drivers in the event of frontal impacts in the cockpit area of cars has been clear," said RBTA CEO and Red Bull racing team boss Christian Horner.

"This new partnership with INDYCAR gives us at Red Bull Advanced Technologies the go-ahead to fully explore that potential, and to deliver a protection system that will help prevent serious injuries and potentially save lives in the US premier single-seater series.

"Over the coming months we’ll be working closely with INDYCAR and its drivers to refine and perfect Aeroscreen and we’re looking forward to seeing the results on the cars in 2020."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.