In early 2005, Honda Performance Development (HPD) moved into a spacious 123,000 square-foot, facility in Santa Clarita, Calif. The two-story structure houses comprehensive engine research and development operations, including design, prototype and production parts manufacturing; engine preparation; materials analysis; four state-of-the-art, transient-style engine test dynamometers and many other departments. HPD is American Honda's technical operations center for Honda's U.S. auto racing programs and is currently focused on American Honda's involvement in the IRL IndyCar series.
From this facility comes the all-conquering HI5R Series Indy V8. Honda engines won 12 out of the 17 races during the 2005 IRL season. Honda's success in 2005 allowed it to capture its second consecutive "Triple Crown", winning the Manufacturers' Championship, Drivers' Championship (Dan Wheldon, Andretti Green Racing) and Rookie of the Year (Danica Patrick, Rahal Letterman Racing). Honda, with Dan Wheldon, also took home the checkered flag at the Indy 500.