Racing simulator lands real tax break for two-seaters

As far as IndyCar is concerned, the two-seaters the Indy Racing Experience uses to zip paying passengers around the track are the real deal.

The cars use an IndyCar-approved engine, a Dallara chassis, and they’re piloted by Izod IndyCar drivers. The Indy Racing Experience even has team credentials. The one thing the company lacked was a sales-tax exemption that saves professional racing teams thousands of dollars on new-car and parts purchases.

State legislation passed this year made two-seat race cars eligible for the tax break, too. The exemption, retroactive to Jan. 1, applies to the chassis, engine, parts and accessories but not tires, according to the Indiana Department of Revenue.

The Indy Racing Experience will save upwards of $10,000 a year, depending on the number of engine rebuilds and parts the company goes through, co-owner Scott Jasek said. The savings could grow, as the company plans to add two more cars to its stable of four two-seaters.