<P> Traditionally , the field consists of 33 starters , aligned in a starting grid of eleven rows of three cars apiece . The event is contested by `` Indy cars '' , a formula of professional - level , single - seat , open cockpit , open - wheel , purpose - built race cars . As of 2015 , all entrants utilize 2.2 L V6 , twin - turbocharged engines , tuned to produce a range of 550 -- 700 horsepower ( 410 -- 520 kW ) . Chevrolet and Honda are the current engine manufacturers involved in the sport . Firestone , which has a deep history in the sport , dating back to the first 500 , is the exclusive tire provider . </P>
<P> Traditionally , the field consists of 33 starters , aligned in a starting grid of eleven rows of three cars apiece . The event is contested by `` Indy cars '' , a formula of professional - level , single - seat , open cockpit , open - wheel , purpose - built race cars . As of 2015 , all entrants utilize 2.2 L V6 , twin - turbocharged engines , tuned to produce a range of 550 -- 700 horsepower ( 410 -- 520 kW ) . Chevrolet and Honda are the current engine manufacturers involved in the sport . Firestone , which has a deep history in the sport , dating back to the first 500 , is the exclusive tire provider . </P>
what kind of cars race in the indy 500
what kind of cars race in the indy 500
`` Indy cars '' , a formula of professional - level , single - seat , open cockpit , open - wheel , purpose - built race cars
`` Indy cars '' , a formula of professional - level , single - seat , open cockpit , open - wheel , purpose - built race cars