The World Rallycross Championship (or World RX) has taken a significant step towards its future with the inclusion of internal combustion engine (ICE) cars in its racing lineup. After two seasons of all-electric competition, the championship held its first mixed powertrain races over the weekend in Höljes, Sweden.
A New Era for Rallycross
Rallycross is an exhilarating form of motorsport that combines elements of traditional point-to-point rally racing with the excitement of circuit racing. The World RX series has been electric-only since 2022, but with a shift towards sustainable and environmentally-friendly racing practices, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) announced its decision to introduce ‘sustainably-fuelled’ ICE cars for a limited period.
The Battle of Technologies
The inclusion of ICE cars in the championship marks a significant change in direction for World RX. The series had faced challenges with low driver sign-ups and an apparent battery fire that damaged two cars before a race last year. In response, the FIA implemented changes to the format, including having drivers compete for points rather than completing laps.
The Lineup: Electric vs. Internal Combustion
This weekend’s races in Höljes saw six EVs and four ICE cars take part. The lineup featured a mix of familiar faces from previous seasons, including Johan Kristoffersson, the reigning champion who had dominated the electric-only era with his Volkswagen Polo KMS 601 RX.
Provisional Championship Standings: Who’s Leading?
The first weekend of racing saw some impressive performances from both EV and ICE drivers. As it stands, the provisional championship standings show three EV racers in the top five spots. However, Johan Kristoffersson’s Volkswagen Polo KMS 601 RX took the win on both days, propelling him to the top of the standings.
The Future of Rallycross: What’s Next?
As the World RX series embarks on this new era of mixed powertrain racing, questions arise about its future direction. Will the introduction of ICE cars prove a success, or will the electric-only format return in some capacity? The FIA’s decision to allow ‘sustainably-fuelled’ ICE cars is an interesting compromise that aims to strike a balance between tradition and innovation.
Rallycross: A Brief History
For those new to the sport, rallycross has its roots in traditional point-to-point rally racing. However, it differs significantly from more conventional forms of motorsport due to its unique combination of circuit racing and off-road driving on dirt and gravel surfaces. The series has undergone significant changes over the years, adapting to technological advancements and shifting societal attitudes towards sustainability.
The Electric Era: A Short-Lived Success Story?
Since 2022, World RX had been an all-electric series, with drivers competing in specially modified electric cars. While it was an innovative step forward for motorsport, the low driver sign-ups and apparent battery fire highlighted the challenges associated with this format.
Mixed Powertrain Racing: A New Era Unfolds
The inclusion of ICE cars marks a significant shift towards more traditional racing practices. However, as the FIA emphasizes the importance of sustainability in motorsport, it remains to be seen whether electric-only formats will return or if mixed powertrain racing becomes a permanent feature.
Driver Reactions: Support and Skepticism
The drivers themselves have been vocal about their reactions to the changes in the series. While some welcome the introduction of ICE cars as a refreshing change, others express concerns about the potential impact on electric-only formats and driver participation.
Johan Kristoffersson’s Dominance Continues
As we head into the next phase of World RX, one question remains: will Johan Kristoffersson continue his dominance in the mixed powertrain era? With two consecutive titles won in electric cars, he faces stiff competition from both EV and ICE drivers.
The Future is Uncertain, But Exciting
The introduction of ICE cars marks a new chapter for World RX. As the series embarks on this uncharted territory, it’s clear that mixed powertrain racing will bring its own set of challenges and opportunities. With a focus on sustainability and innovation, the championship is poised to continue pushing the boundaries of motorsport.
Changes to the Format: Points Rather Than Laps
In response to driver sign-up issues and apparent safety concerns, the FIA made significant changes to the format. Drivers now compete for points rather than completing laps, which may alter the dynamics of racing strategies and tactics.
The Road Ahead: What’s Next for World RX?
As we look towards the future, one thing is certain: the World RX series will continue evolving in response to changing circumstances. With a focus on sustainability, innovation, and driver participation, the championship is poised to remain at the forefront of motorsport.
Conclusion
The introduction of ICE cars in the World RX series marks an exciting new chapter for rallycross. As drivers adapt to this mixed powertrain era, one thing remains clear: the future of motorsport is uncertain but full of possibilities.
