Shell Starship 3.0 to Continue Pioneering Sustainable Transport in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES in 2026
INDYCAR and Shell have announced that the Shell Starship 3.0 will return to the NTT INDYCAR SERIES transportation fleet for the 2026 season, furthering its role as a demonstration of lower-emissions freight technology within motorsports.
Advancing Sustainable Logistics
Powered by a Cummins X15N natural gas engine and utilizing Shell Rotella natural gas engine oil, the Shell Starship 3.0 will serve as the transport vehicle for the INDYCAR Administrative Trailer, accompanying the series to nearly every race on the 2026 calendar.
“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 even as supporting a partner that shares our ambition to advance more sustainable mobility solutions.”
Building on a Successful Debut
The return follows a successful debut season in 2025, where Shell Starship became the first natural gas-powered Class 8 truck to operate within a national racing series fleet in North America, joining the series after the Indianapolis 500. For the 2026 season, plans are in place to increase the utilization of renewable natural gas (RNG) compared to the previous year.
“INDYCAR is continuously evaluating ways to grow on and off the track – including how we move people and equipment,” said J. Douglas Boles, INDYCAR President. “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.”
Enhanced Visibility and Integration
Beyond its logistical role, Shell Starship will be featured in several prominent events throughout the 2026 season, including:
- Leading the truck parade at the Java House Grand Prix of Arlington
- Participating in the 500 Festival Parade leading up to the Indianapolis 500
- Being featured in INDYCAR video game titles for console and PC, produced by iRacing Studios
Part of a Broader Sustainability Commitment
Shell Starship’s return is part of the wider collaboration between Shell and INDYCAR, which includes Shell’s position as the Official Fuel of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES and the introduction of 100% renewable race fuel in 2023.
By continuing to operate within the INDYCAR SERIES, Shell Starship aims to demonstrate how advanced vehicle design, efficient powertrains and renewable fuels can contribute to lower-carbon logistics, both during race weekends and in broader applications.
For more information about Shell Starship and Shell’s work in transport decarbonization, visit shell.com/starship.