The NTT IndyCar Series will move forward with a new cockpit protection device it has named the ‘Advanced Frontal Protection’ (AFP) device. The three-inch tall, 0.750-inch wide titanium piece replaces the windscreen unit tested by the series at Phoenix International Raceway and Indianapolis Motor Speedway last year.
Manufactured by Dallara, the AFP will be used for the first time by all teams during the April 24 test at IMS, and will make its formal debut once practice starts in May for the 103rd Indianapolis 500. Once the Indy 500 is complete, the AFPs will remain in place as mandatory items fitted for every remaining race in 2019.
It’s believed the AFP is a short-term solution for the upcoming season, and could be replaced by a new cockpit protection device as early as 2020.