Shell and INDYCAR confirmed on February 27 that the Shell Starship will rejoin the NTT INDYCAR SERIES transportation lineup for the 2026 season, serving as the dedicated transporter for the INDYCAR Administrative Trailer. This return highlights Shell’s ongoing commitment to showcasing advanced, lower-emission freight technologies within the realm of high-profile motorsports.
Features and Technology Behind the Shell Starship
The Shell Starship operates as an energy-efficient Class 8 truck powered by a Cummins X15N natural gas engine and runs on Shell Rotella natural gas engine oil. Its design prioritizes reduced environmental impact, transporting essential INDYCAR equipment to nearly all events on the 2026 racing calendar, positioning itself as a pioneer in sustainable motorsport logistics.
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.
Building on a Successful Inaugural Season
After debuting in 2025 following the Indianapolis 500, the Shell Starship made history as the first natural gas-powered Class 8 truck in a national racing series fleet across North America. For 2026, Shell plans to increase the usage of renewable natural gas (RNG) in the truck’s operations, further advancing its sustainability goals and reducing carbon emissions in line with evolving industry standards.
INDYCAR is continuously evaluating ways to grow on and off the track – including how we move people and equipment,
said INDYCAR President J. Douglas Boles.
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. Judging by how many times Shell Starship is photographed in the paddock, it is clear our fans enjoy the program, as well.
Notable Appearances and Integration in INDYCAR Events
Beyond its logistical function, the Shell Starship will be prominently featured during the 2026 season at multiple events, including leading the truck parade at the Java House Grand Prix of Arlington and participating in the 500 Festival Parade leading up to the Indianapolis 500. Additionally, it will appear in official INDYCAR video game titles for consoles and PC, developed by iRacing Studios, boosting its visibility among fans and gamers alike.
Strengthening the Partnership Between Shell and INDYCAR
Shell Starship’s return reinforces the ongoing collaboration between Shell and INDYCAR, building upon Shell’s role as the Official Fuel provider for the NTT INDYCAR SERIES and the launch of 100% renewable race fuel introduced in 2023. Through this partnership, Shell continues to demonstrate how integrating renewable fuels with advanced vehicle technologies can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of motorsport operations, extending benefits well beyond race day logistics.
