Honda is debuting a striking HRC livery for this weekend's IndyCar race.

      Honda Racing Corporation

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      In 2023, Honda underwent a significant transformation in its global racing operations. Previously split between Honda Racing Company overseas and Honda Performance Development in North America, the traditional HRC and HPD brands merged to streamline operations and compete worldwide under a unified HRC title. Additionally, HRC US aimed to establish a new enterprise focused on delivering track-tested performance parts for Honda and Acura vehicles.

      To promote this initiative, Honda is prominently displaying its striking HRC logo on Alex Palou’s No. 10 Chip Ganassi Racing Honda during this weekend’s IndyCar race at Barber Motorsports Park, and it looks fantastic.

      Honda Racing Corporation

      Although not officially released yet, HRC is developing and showcasing performance parts, which have been previewed on several concept vehicles. The standout is the yellow Acura Integra Type S, which made its debut at last year’s Monterey Car Week. This low-profile hatchback features practical additions like new front and rear fascias, a performance hood, and side splitters, all designed to enhance cooling.

      It also sports a substantial rear wing, along with other performance upgrades inspired by the Integra Type S TCX race car that competes in the SRO TC America championship. Notably, the prototype removes air conditioning and the backseat to accommodate a carbon fiber shelf for carrying track tires. The drivetrain has also been modified for improved performance, though Honda has not disclosed specific specifications.

      You might have noticed I used the term “functional” to describe these parts, and that’s because they are indeed functional. Last November, at a special Honda-organized test I attended in Vegas, I observed Red Bull F1 driver (then VCARB) Yuki Tsunoda thoroughly test the prototype Integra on a racetrack. He was so impressed that he requested HRC US president to build him one to keep in Japan.

      Honda Racing Corporation

      According to a report we shared in January, these performance enhancements are expected to be part of a new high-performance trim that will be positioned above Honda’s existing Type R and Acura’s Type S trims.

      HRC vice president Jon Ikeda explained to The Drive earlier this year, “You have the Type S or Type R for daily driving, and on the other end, you have a race car for the track—this would fit somewhere in between—right at that tipping point where your significant other might not want to ride along.” He emphasized that putting the HRC brand name on it signifies it as the ultimate expression of that model, while also ensuring it remains street legal.

      Other HRC performance components were showcased at last year’s SEMA show in the form of a Honda Pilot HRC Prototype, featuring specialized off-road fenders, performance racks, suspension lift, wheels, tires, rock sliders, and more.

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