7. Event Best Practices
Participating in an autocross event can be an exciting and rewarding experience. To ensure you have the best possible time while staying safe and competitive, it’s important to follow some essential best practices.
Here are some tips to help you make the most of your day at the track:
7.1 Arriving and Preparing
- Arrive Early: Arriving early allows you to familiarize yourself with the venue, register, inspect your car, and walk the course before the driver’s meeting. It also gives you time to acclimate to the environment and minimize any rush.
- Tech Inspection: Before taking to the course, your car will need to undergo a tech inspection. This typically checks the condition of your tires, brakes, battery, safety equipment, and other critical systems. Make sure your car meets all the requirements outlined by the event organizers.
- Also, expect the tech to make a joke about your battery being secured. Every. Time.
- Course Walk: Take the time to walk the course before the event begins. This gives you a chance to visually plan your approach, identify key turns, and understand the layout. Walking the course will help you anticipate technical sections and improve your overall strategy.
7.2 Participating in the Driver’s Meeting
- Listen Carefully: The driver’s meeting is where organizers provide critical information about safety, course details, and event-specific rules. Pay attention to any updates on track conditions, potential hazards, and timing procedures.
- Ask Questions: If you’re new to autocross or have any uncertainties about the event or course, don’t hesitate to ask the organizers or more experienced drivers for advice. The autocross community is generally welcoming, and many are happy to share tips.
- Safety Briefing: Review safety rules for both the car and personal gear. Make sure you understand the flag signals, what to do in case of an emergency, and any other relevant guidelines specific to your event.
7.3 Timing and Strategy
- Timing Systems: Autocross events typically use an electronic timing system to measure lap times, with each driver having multiple runs. Ensure you know how the timing system works and when you need to be ready for your runs.
- Focus on Consistency: Your best time is often the result of a series of consistent runs rather than one perfect lap. Prioritize a key section or two of the course to focus on improving, rather than trying to improve everything all at once. Avoid overdriving—making small adjustments after each run is often more effective than trying to push too hard.
- Plan Your Run: Before each run, mentally prepare by visualizing your approach to each turn, braking zone, and acceleration point. This mental preparation helps you stay focused and improve your execution.
7.4 Practicing Good Pit Etiquette
- Stay Organized: Keep your pit area tidy and organized, both for your convenience and to maintain a safe environment for others. Avoid clutter around your vehicle, and make sure tools or equipment are safely stored when not in use.
- Be Considerate of Others: Autocross events are often held in communal settings, so be mindful of your fellow drivers and volunteers. If you’re working the course, help out efficiently, and always be ready to assist when needed.
- Take Breaks: Autocross can be physically demanding, especially in the heat. Take regular breaks to hydrate and cool down. A rested driver is a safer and more effective driver.
7.5 Working the Course
- Course Work: Many autocross events require participants to “work” the course in between their runs, such as resetting cones or marshaling the course. Treat this time as an opportunity to observe other drivers, learn new techniques, and get a closer look at how others handle different sections.
- Cone Etiquette: When working the course, make sure to follow proper procedures for resetting cones and ensuring the track is clear for the next driver. Understanding the consequences of cone penalties during your own runs will make you more vigilant in managing the course.
7.6 Adjusting to Course Conditions
- Course Variations: Every autocross course is different, with varying surface conditions and layouts. Be prepared to adapt to these variations. Wet or slippery conditions, for example, may require adjusting your tire pressures or driving style.
- Tire Prep: Tire performance can change throughout the day due to heat buildup, especially if you’re running high-performance tires. Monitor tire pressures and temperature as the day progresses, adjusting as needed to maintain consistent grip.
7.7 Post-Run Analysis and Feedback
- Review Your Runs: After each run, take time to reflect on what went well and what could be improved. Look at the telemetry or video footage if available, and analyze your throttle inputs, braking points, and steering inputs.
- Ask for Feedback: If there are more experienced drivers or coaches at the event, ask for feedback. Many drivers enjoy giving tips, especially if they see areas where you can improve.
- Continuous Improvement: Every event is an opportunity to learn. Focus on one or two skills for improvement at each event, and with practice, you’ll gradually increase your performance.
7.8 Closing the Day
- Thank Volunteers and Officials: Autocross events rely on volunteers, so take a moment at the end of the day to thank them for their hard work. Their efforts make the event run smoothly, and expressing gratitude goes a long way in building a positive motorsport community.
- Pack Up Carefully: After the event, make sure to properly pack your gear, tools, and any other items you brought. Leave your pit area clean and organized, respecting the venue and other participants.
By following these event best practices, you’ll be able to maximize your enjoyment and performance while building positive relationships with your fellow drivers and the autocross community. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced racer, a thoughtful approach to each event will help you improve and make the most of every race day.
8. Resources
Whether you’re new to autocross or looking to level up your EV racing game, there is a wealth of resources available to help you improve your skills, understand vehicle setup, and stay connected with the EV motorsports community. Here’s a curated list of useful tools, websites, books, and organizations to guide you on your journey.
8.1 EV Autocross Community and Forums
- Electric Racers (This community!): The online community you’re building is an invaluable resource for sharing knowledge, discussing setups, exchanging experiences, and networking with fellow EV autocross enthusiasts. Engage with other members to learn from their experiences and offer your own insights.
- r/Autocross (Reddit): A popular subreddit where autocrossers of all levels exchange tips, event schedules, and experiences. While not EV-specific, it’s a great place to ask for advice and connect with a large community of autocross racers.
- EV Forum Communities (e.g., Tesla Motors Club, Nissan Leaf Forums): Some electric vehicle-specific forums have sub-forums for motorsports enthusiasts. These can be a goldmine for information on how to optimize your EV for autocross events, including battery management, performance tuning, and tire choices.
8.2 Autocross Event and Racing Organizations
- SCCA (Sports Car Club of America): The SCCA is one of the largest and most recognized organizations in the U.S. for autocross events. Their website provides event schedules, rules, and membership information, as well as helpful resources for new and experienced racers alike.
- PCA (Porsche Club of America): Many regional PCA organizations host autocross events for Porsche owners, providing a welcoming environment to test driving skills, enjoy friendly competition, and connect with fellow enthusiasts. Some even extend events to non-Porsche participants.
- Summit Racing DriveAutoX Series: A national autocross series open to all vehicle types, offering a fun, high-energy competition with diverse course designs and a focus on driver skill development. Check out Autocross Week, too.
- MotorSport UK: The national membership organisation and governing body for four-wheel motorsport in the UK, representing competitors, volunteers, clubs and fans.
- CACC (The Confederation of Autosport Car Clubs): CACC’s Autoslalom format offers a structured and competitive autocross experience in Western Canada, welcoming drivers of all skill levels to test their abilities on technical cone courses.
- CASC (Canadian Auto Sport Committee): CASC organizes autoslalom events across Ontario, providing a competitive and inclusive platform for drivers to develop their skills and enjoy motorsports in a safe, controlled environment.
- EASC (European Autoslalom Championship): The EASC is a premier competition showcasing precision driving across Europe, featuring challenging autoslalom courses designed to test skill, strategy, and vehicle handling.
- Ultimate Street Car Association: The USCA hosts a unique series that combines autocross, road course racing, and other driving challenges, emphasizing versatility and skill in both the driver and vehicle.
8.3 Educational Resources and Books
- Beyond Seat Time (BeST): “The Complete Autocrosser’s Manual” by Vivek Goel: One of my current go-to resources, Goel’s online coursework provides an online multimedia guide to mastering autocross, covering everything from car setup and driving techniques to advanced strategies for improving consistency and speed.
- “Speed Secrets: Winning Autocross Techniques” by Ross Bentley: Bentley’s autocross-focused book offers practical advice and proven strategies to help drivers improve their autocross skills, including car control, course reading, and mental preparation for peak performance. This book was my first step into improving my autocross driving knowledge and skills.
- “Secrets of Solo Racing” by Henry A. Watts: A detailed book on autocross techniques, focusing on improving your driving skills. It’s full of advice on tire management, braking techniques, and navigating autocross courses.
- Driving Courses and Schools (e.g., Skip Barber Racing School, ProFormance Racing School): These schools offer online and in-person driving courses that can help hone your skills for autocross and other forms of racing. While not EV-specific, they provide invaluable knowledge that can be applied to EV autocross.
8.4 Tools for Data Analysis and Vehicle Tuning
- Petrel Data Systems SoloStorm: A powerful data-logging and analysis app tailored for autocross enthusiasts, SoloStorm records telemetry like speed, GPS position, and throttle input while integrating with video to provide detailed insights into your runs. Its side-by-side comparison features and customizable metrics make it an excellent tool for refining EV performance on the course.
- Apex Pro: Apex Pro is a versatile driving performance tool combining hardware and app-based software to deliver real-time feedback and post-run data analysis. With features like adaptive LED feedback, detailed telemetry, and video integration, it helps autocross drivers, including EV enthusiasts, optimize their lines, braking points, and overall performance on the course.
- RaceCapture/Track by Autosport Labs: This data acquisition system allows you to monitor telemetry, including lap times, vehicle speed, G-forces, and more. It can help you analyze your driving performance and improve your lap times over time.
- TrackAddict (App for Data Logging): This app offers lap timing, data logging, and video integration, allowing you to capture detailed telemetry and compare performance across different runs and events.
8.6 EV-Specific Performance Parts and Vendors
Note: This list is admittedly North American and Tesla-focused. Please recommend some manufacturers for other popular makes and regions.
- Mountain Pass Performance: Specializing in high-performance upgrades for EVs, Mountain Pass Performance offers suspension kits, braking systems, and other components designed to enhance handling and track capabilities.
- Unplugged Performance: A leading provider of performance and aesthetic upgrades for Tesla vehicles, Unplugged Performance offers products ranging from suspension tuning to aero enhancements and track-ready modifications.
- Redwood Motorsports: Focused on EV motorsports, Redwood Motorsports provides high-quality components and expertise to help enthusiasts optimize their electric vehicles for competitive driving and track use.
8.8 Miscellaneous Resources
YouTube Channels
YouTube is a great platform for both learning and sharing your autocross journey. Channels focused on racing techniques, EV performance, and car reviews often feature tips and tricks for improving your skills and vehicle setup.
- Grassroots Motorsports: A YouTube channel and companion to the magazine, offering a wealth of DIY tips, car builds, and event coverage tailored to amateur racers, including autocross enthusiasts.
- Warhorse Racing: A channel showcasing the journey of an amateur racer with detailed autocross runs, build updates, and insights into improving performance on the course.
- Evolution Autocrosser: Focused on improving driving skills, this channel provides instructional videos, course walkthroughs, and in-car footage to help autocrossers of all levels.
- AutoXandTrack: A blend of autocross and track content, this channel features event recaps, driving tips, and car builds aimed at helping enthusiasts improve their on-track and on-course performance.
- Speed Secrets: Hosted by Ross Bentley, this channel dives into advanced driving techniques, mental strategies, and practical advice for mastering autocross and other motorsports disciplines.
Podcasts
Motorsports podcasts are an excellent way to stay up-to-date with the latest in the racing world. Some podcasts also feature interviews with professional drivers, engineers, and enthusiasts, offering valuable insights into the racing scene.
- Autocross Talk Podcast with Kinch Reindl: A podcast featuring interviews with top autocross drivers and industry experts, sharing tips, stories, and insights to help enthusiasts excel in the sport.
- PAX Attack: A podcast exploring the nuances of autocross competition, with discussions on car setups, driving strategies, and the intricacies of the PAX indexing system.
These resources are designed to help you grow as a driver, stay informed about new technologies, and connect with like-minded individuals in the EV motorsports community. By tapping into these tools and communities, you’ll be well-equipped to enhance your autocross performance and immerse yourself further into the exciting world of EV racing.
9. Help Us Improve This Megathread
This megathread is a collaborative effort, and your input is invaluable! If you have suggestions, additional insights, or resources that could enhance this guide, please drop them in a comment here.
- Spotted Something Missing? Let us know if there’s a topic or resource we should include.
- Want More Overseas Coverage? We’re seeking boots-on-the-ground experience for autosolo, autoslalom, and autotest resources.
- Have Expertise to Share? Contribute your knowledge or experience to make this thread even more comprehensive.
- Want to Start a Discussion? Share your thoughts or questions in the comments—your ideas could spark valuable conversations for the entire community.
Together, we can make this megathread a living resource that grows and evolves with the needs of EV autocross enthusiasts. Thanks for being part of the journey—let’s keep building this community with every pass! 
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