Electric vs Petrol: 5 Nations Rallycross Clash

The world of motorsport is evolving rapidly, and few events capture this shift better than the 2021 British Rallycross Championship’s 5 Nations Trophy. This innovative series brought together electric vehicles (EVs) and petrol-powered cars on the same track, competing under identical rules for the first time in UK history. Drawing from the STARD ERX powertrain, previously tested in global rallycross, these EVs delivered power outputs matching top Supercars while promising lower operational costs and instant torque advantages.

The Dawn of Mixed-Powertrain Racing in Britain

Rallycross has always thrived on close-quarters combat, gravel traps, and tarmac sprints, making it an ideal testing ground for new technologies. In 2021, Motorsport UK greenlit the inclusion of all-electric entries in the 5 Nations Trophy, marking a historic milestone. This wasn’t just an exhibition; EVs raced wheel-to-wheel with internal combustion engine (ICE) machines, sharing the same starting grids and finishing lines.

The STARD ERX system, developed by Stohl Advanced Research & Development, powers these electric challengers with approximately 600 horsepower—on par with the dominant Supercars class. Kits allow teams to convert existing petrol chassis to electric, easing the transition for established competitors. STARD CEO Michael Sakowicz highlighted the format’s suitability, noting that short race bursts align perfectly with battery capabilities, enabling around 15 laps per charge.

Technical Breakdown: EV Powertrains Meet Supercar Might

At the heart of the electric entries lies the STARD ERX powertrain, a battle-tested unit from the World Rallycross Championship’s Projekt E division. These systems boast instant torque delivery, propelling cars from 0-60 mph in as little as seven seconds and reaching top speeds of 85 mph. The four-wheel-drive setup ensures optimal traction on rallycross’s slippery surfaces.

This table illustrates the balanced competition: EVs offer relentless acceleration without gear shifts, while petrol cars leverage higher top speeds and endurance. Conversion kits make entry accessible, with ERX Supercars cheaper to purchase outright compared to ICE equivalents.

A Multi-Nation Circuit Adventure

The 5 Nations Trophy lived up to its name, spanning circuits across the UK and beyond. Teams battled at iconic venues, each offering unique challenges from tight hairpins to high-speed jumps.

• Lydden Hill, England (May 29 & 31, Nov 6-7): The spiritual home of British rallycross, with its infamous chicane and gravel sections. Round 1 and 2 saw electric finals unfold here.
• Mondello Park, Ireland (July 10-11): Fast sweeps and technical corners tested powertrain reliability.
• Pembrey, Wales (Aug 29-30): Coastal circuit with elevation changes demanding precise handling.
• Knockhill, Scotland (Sept 25-26): Narrow, undulating track favoring agile machines.
• Spa-Francorchamps, Belgium (Dec 4-5): A grand finale on the famous World Endurance track, adapted for rallycross.

This diverse calendar ensured broad appeal, uniting fans from England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, and even continental Europe.

Key Players and Pioneering Runs

STARD president Manfred Stohl, a former top Austrian rally driver, proved the concept’s viability by defeating petrol cars in a Hungarian event with an electric Ford Fiesta. In the UK series, drivers like Kevin Morris from STARD showcased the EVs’ potential in early rounds at Lydden Hill.

5 Nations BRX Coordinator Hannah Rynston emphasized rallycross’s innovative spirit: “Rallycross was innovative from the outset and lends itself so well to the next era of motor sport.” Her team worked diligently to integrate EVs seamlessly, targeting a strong grid presence from the season opener.

Performance Insights from the Tracks

Early races highlighted EVs’ strengths in acceleration bursts. Videos from Lydden Hill’s Round 2 electric final capture the silent fury of these machines launching off the line, their torque overwhelming gravel. Petrol cars countered with superior heat management over longer heats, but STARD’s battery tech held up admirably for the format’s demands.

Cost savings were a game-changer: ERX vehicles ran at 60% lower expense than ICE rivals, factoring in energy, maintenance, and tires. This affordability drew new teams, broadening the field and intensifying competition.

Challenges and Innovations Overcome

Integrating EVs wasn’t without hurdles. Battery charging between heats required precise logistics, but the short sprint nature—typically 4-6 laps—mitigated range anxiety. Safety protocols evolved too, with high-voltage systems demanding specialized training.

Motorsport UK’s approval process ensured parity: EVs received no handicaps, racing purely on merit. This level playing field showcased electric tech’s readiness for high-stakes combat, influencing future series like the RX2e support class.

Environmental and Economic Impacts

Beyond the roar (or lack thereof), the series underscored sustainability. EVs slashed emissions during races, aligning with global motorsport’s green push. Economically, lower costs democratized access, potentially growing the sport’s talent pool.

STARD’s vision extends further: their powertrains pave the way for hybrid formats and full-electric championships, as seen in evolving World Rallycross plans.

Lessons for the Future of Rallycross

The 2021 5 Nations Trophy proved mixed-powertrain racing viable and exhilarating. EVs didn’t dominate but held their own, trading blows with petrol legends. This experiment informed subsequent seasons, where electric classes expanded.

Fans witnessed a pivotal moment: motorsport’s bridge from combustion to electrification, without sacrificing the raw excitement of rallycross.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What made the 2021 5 Nations Trophy unique?

It was the first UK series to race EVs against petrol cars on equal terms, using STARD ERX tech.

How powerful were the electric rallycross cars?

Approximately 600 bhp, matching Supercars, with 0-60 in 7 seconds.

Where were the races held?

Across Lydden Hill (England), Mondello Park (Ireland), Pembrey (Wales), Knockhill (Scotland), and Spa (Belgium).

Are electric rallycross cars cheaper to run?

Yes, about 60% less than petrol equivalents.

Can teams convert petrol cars to electric?

Yes, STARD offers conversion kits for existing chassis.