In-your-face introduction: Aero kit test at Barber

Chevrolet and Honda have unveiled computer-generated models of their road/street course and short oval aerodynamic bodywork platforms, and the radical packages will spring to life March 16-17 when Verizon IndyCar Series teams convene at Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Ala., for the initial multi-day on-track examination. "It's kind of like taking the SATs; everyone is cramming for the big test, which is St. Pete," said Josef Newgarden, who enters his fourth season in the No. 67 CFH Racing Chevrolet. The season-opening Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg is March 29 (3 p.m. ET, ABC). "There's a lot of work to do to try to figure out how the aero kits work on track. Set-ups will change, driving styles will change a little bit. It's exciting and a new challenge," added Newgarden. The March 16 sessions (10 a.m.-1 p.m. and 2-6 p.m. local) on the 2.38-mile, 17-turn Barber road course are free and open to the public. Live lap timing both days will be available on www.IndyCar.com.

Media Contact: Mike Kitchel mkitchel@indycar.com