The final step in the FIA’s Affordable Cross Car project has been completed for the Level 2 category, with design blueprints delivered to the global network of 147 National Sporting Authorities (ASNs).
The Cross Car category was launched by the FIA in 2018 as the base of the off-road pyramid. Already a key element for national competitions in many countries, the Affordable Cross Car project has been designed to further lower the barrier to entry by allowing ASNs to build cross cars using locally-sourced parts and materials, thereby reducing the reliance on international suppliers and avoiding the often significant costs associated with import duties and taxes.
Affordable Cross Car allows ASNs develop motor sport irrespective of their size, structure or geographical location, and can be easily integrated into other grassroots initiatives provided by the FIA such as Motorsport in a Box.
Historically, the Cross Car category has featured senior and junior categories, however the Affordable Cross Car project creates two new classes below the top tiers that have been designed and developed by the FIA. At Level 1, the entry level for young drivers, the cost parameters are approximately €5,000, while the intermediate Level 2, which is aimed at incentive drives and beginner competitions, costs of around €10,000.
The entry Level 1 designs are still under development and will be delivered to clubs at a later date.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem said: “This project is hugely important for the FIA, as we continue to work tirelessly in service of our members to encourage growth and participation in motor sport. This is a very significant moment, and I am proud that we have now delivered the designs to the clubs so that they can begin to bring our vision to life. I strongly encourage our members and our competitors around the world to take the tools that this project provides and help us to make cross car a global success.”
FIA Secretary-General for Sport, Valerio Iachizzi, added: “Growing the base of the off-road pyramid is vital for the long-term health of the sport at every level, and from small clubs who may use the cars together with the Motorsport in a Box initiative to run simple slaloms, to medium and larger clubs who are looking to expand their established disciplines, we really believe that it is going to have a positive impact. I want to thank everyone who has contributed to get the project to this point – we are here to support the clubs for the next steps.”