IndyCar puts safety at top of priority list entering 2016

IndyCar officials are requiring rear wing beam flaps on the 2016 cars in hopes of creating a safer racing environment.

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — IndyCar officials are requiring rear wing beam flaps on the 2016 cars in hopes of creating a safer racing environment.

It's one of several safety moves Mark Miles, the CEO of IndyCar's parent company, explained Tuesday during the series' annual media day. Miles said the flaps, which are similar to those used in NASCAR, are designed to prevent cars from going airborne when they are going backward—as several did last May in Indianapolis.

Miles said they tests were conducted at Texas A&M's wind tunnel and that there were no mechanical failures at speeds up to 230 mph.

In addition, Miles said an improved fuel probe sensor will prevent cars from pulling out of the pits if the probe is still attached to the car.