autocross

A Mini Cooper participating in an autocross event. The HS stands for H Stock.

Autocross is a form of motorsports that emphasizes safe competition and active participation. An autocross is a timed competition where drivers navigate one at a time through a defined course on either sealed or unsealed surfaces. Autocross differs from road racing or oval racing in that generally there is only one car on the track racing against the clock rather than other cars. As an entry level motorsport it provides a stepping stone for drivers looking to move into other more competitive and possibly expensive forms of motorsport including rally and circuit racing.

Autocross courses are typically 1 to 2 kilometres in length and tend to place more emphasis on car handling and driver skill rather than on sheer horsepower. Courses may be temporary and marked by traffic cones or be permanent tracks with approval by a motorsport body.

Events typically have many classes which allow almost any vehicle, from economy sedans to purpose-built vehicles, to compete. Due to the nature of a typical track, speeds can be slower in absolute terms when compared to other forms of motorsports, usually not exceeding highway speeds, but the activity level (measured in discrete turns per minute) can be higher than even Formula One due to the large number of elements packed into each course.^[1]

Australian Autocross

A Swift GTI participating in an Australian Autocross event.

Australian Autocross is type of motorsport sanctioned by the Confederation of Australian Motor Sport (CAMS) and defined as a speed event on dirt and less than 2 km in length. Eligible vehicles can range from standard road going vehicles, purpose built buggies through to Full Race and Rally prepared vehicles. Drivers may begin competing at the age of 14 and must hold a recognised racing license which is usually obtainable on the day through the hosting club^[2]

American Autocross

American Autocross is a form of autocross practiced in the United States of America sanctioned by Sports Car Club of America and National Auto Sport Association. Events are typically held on flat sealed surfaces such as large carparks and have a new course for each event generally marked out by traffic cones.

British Autocross

British Autocross

References