Skeleton Technologies has been awarded the 2025 Louis Schwitzer Award for its key contribution to the development of the hybrid power unit Energy Storage System (ESS) for the NTT IndyCar Series.
The award was presented to Raoul Fernandes, Senior Project Manager at Skeleton, along with other contributors from Honda Racing Corporation, EMPEL, Ilmor Engineering, INDYCAR, and Dana Inc., for their joint work on a groundbreaking technology that is already transforming the landscape of motorsports.
In 2025, the jury highlighted the development of a new hybrid energy storage system — the first of its kind to utilize a low-voltage energy solution based on supercapacitors. The system made its competitive debut in July 2024 at the Mid-Ohio race and is now officially used in all rounds of the IndyCar season, including the upcoming 109th running of the Indy 500, set to take place this Sunday.
Skeleton developed and supplied a critical component of the hybrid platform — the energy storage unit based on proprietary supercapacitor technology. This solution ensures ultra-fast charging and power delivery, which is essential for performance in high-speed racing environments. The technology not only boosts efficiency and responsiveness but also contributes to a more sustainable and environmentally conscious approach to motorsport.
Raoul Fernandes, Senior Project Manager
“It’s a great honor to be part of the team recognized with such a prestigious award. We are proud that Skeleton has become a driving force behind a major technological shift in racing — and we believe this is just the beginning,” commented Raoul Fernandes, Skeleton representative and award recipient.
The Louis Schwitzer Award is one of the most respected honors in automotive engineering. Since 1967, it has been presented annually ahead of the iconic Indy 500, recognizing cutting-edge technical innovations that combine engineering creativity with practical implementation on the racetrack. The award is organized by the Indiana Section of SAE International, with support from Cummins and Valvoline. It is named after Louis Schwitzer — a pioneering engineer, race car driver, and one of the early trailblazers in American motorsport.
Watch the video: Inside the INDYCAR hybrid power unit
