Indianapolis, IN – Shell and INDYCAR have announced the return of the Shell Starship, a Class 8 natural gas-powered truck, to the NTT INDYCAR SERIES transportation fleet for the 2026 season. The vehicle will transport the INDYCAR Administrative Trailer to races throughout the calendar year, continuing a program initially launched in 2025.
Powered by a Cummins X15N natural gas engine and lubricated with Shell Rotella natural gas engine oil, the Shell Starship debuted mid-season in 2025, following the Indianapolis 500, becoming the first of its kind to operate within a national racing series fleet in North America. According to Shell, the program is designed to demonstrate the viability of advanced, lower-emissions freight technology.
“Shell Starship is more than a concept; it’s a working demonstration of what’s possible when advanced vehicle design, efficient powertrains and renewable fuels come together,” said Thomas Mueller, general manager of Commercial Road Transport at Shell. “Returning to the NTT INDYCAR SERIES in 2026 allows us to continue learning in real-world conditions while supporting a partner that shares our ambition to advance more sustainable mobility solutions.”
For the 2026 season, Shell anticipates increasing the leverage of renewable natural gas (RNG) in the Starship’s operations compared to its 2025 deployment. INDYCAR President J. Douglas Boles stated the program allows the series to evaluate advanced technologies and renewable fuel solutions, supporting its sustainability goals. “The Shell Starship program helps us assess advanced vehicle technologies and renewable fuel solutions in a meaningful way and support our sustainability goals, demonstrating solutions that can scale beyond racing,” Boles said.
Beyond its logistical function, the Shell Starship is slated for several high-profile appearances during the 2026 season. These include leading the truck parade at the Java House Grand Prix of Arlington and participating in the 500 Festival Parade preceding the Indianapolis 500. The vehicle will also be featured in upcoming INDYCAR video game titles developed by iRacing Studios.
The return of the Shell Starship builds upon an existing collaboration between Shell and INDYCAR, which includes Shell’s role as the Official Fuel of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES and the introduction of 100% renewable race fuel in 2023. Shell’s involvement extends beyond fuel, encompassing lubricants and technology innovation within the series.
