Honda's new Civic Type R pace car for Indycar events has received specific tuning from the Honda Performance Development (HPD) team. It features a lengthened wheelbase and widened wheel track to enhance straight-line stability, along with retuned dual-axis strut front and multilink rear suspension. Additionally, the car is equipped with an HPD brake package that includes competition rotors, racing pads, and stainless steel brake lines, which allow the brakes to work harder without overheating.
The pace car also includes an exclusive lighting system and specific Honda graphics, making it instantly recognizable on the track. However, it is important to note that the Civic Type R pace car is not one of the fully race-ready cars that Honda makes available. Instead, it uses parts from the line of products available from HPD through the Honda Racing Line program.
Honda Unveils New Civic Type R Pace Car
The Honda Racing Line program has been supporting Acura and Honda race cars since 2009. It provides access to HPD racing parts and factory engineer support, and covers various types of racing, including touring car racing, karting, quarter-midget, and open-wheel racing.
The new pace car will lead the field to the green flag at the season-opening Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg on the Florida Gulf Coast this weekend, before peeling off for the rolling start of the race. This season's race features 27 cars, which is the largest field for a season opener since 2001.
Source: Honda
