World RX reveals 14-car field for inaugural season of new electric era.

PHOTO CREDIT: FIA World RX Media

The FIA World Rallycross Championship has formally confirmed the first stage of an exciting new era as the series goes fully electric in 2022.

"Since its inception in 2014, World RX has always been the absolute pinnacle of international rallycross, and there is tremendous prestige in being crowned an FIA World Champion – only five drivers receive that honour every year," Arne Dirks, Executive Director, Rallycross Promoter GmbH, said.

"Moving forward, we want to ensure that World RX remains the series that brings together the best drivers, the best teams, the best circuits and the best racing, and we have analysed and assessed every single aspect to ensure that ‘Generation Alpha’ rallycross is the very best version of the sport it can possibly be."

The electrification of rallycross is set to change the sport with interest on the steady incline. The new RX1e car has the capability to launch from 0-100km/h in just 1.8 seconds – faster even than Formula 1 cars.

The car has been developed and produced by Austrian firm Kreisel Electric, in close collaboration with Rallycross Promoter GmbH and governing body, the FIA. 

Fourteen kits have been reserved by new and existing teams, whose identities will be revealed in due course. While bodywork designs and liveries will be different, all cars will use the same electric powertrain. 

The 500kW delivered to the twin motors is the equivalent of 680bhp and is complemented by 880Nm of instant torque, while the battery has been specifically designed for optimum weight distribution.

GCK Energy will manage green energy recharging via a bespoke solution comprised of containers and mobile charging points. The containers will arrive at each event fully charged, having collected 900kWh back at base in France through a combination of solar panels and the local green energy network.

"We are delighted to be heading full-speed into 2022 with an electrified World RX. As promoter, we have a responsibility to nurture and grow this wonderful sport to ensure it continues to thrive for many generations to come – and teams and drivers have been enthusiastic in their support for our exciting new electric, more sustainable era. We are additionally in positive discussions with a number of manufacturers, who share our vision and our commitment to fully embrace the key pillars of sustainability – from economic to environmental and social," Dirks adds.

"Not only that but rallycross’ short, sharp races lend themselves perfectly to electric propulsion. With no need for energy conservation, drivers will have more power at their disposal than ever before and they can exploit it to the max at every moment. I’ve been lucky enough to go for a ride in the RX1 car myself and I can confirm, it is an absolute rocket!"

The race format is also under review by the promoter together with the FIA, World RX teams, and event organizers, with the aim of generating increased overtaking opportunities and even closer racing – all with the emphasis on providing competitors and fans with an electrifying experience.

Indeed, the whole concept of events has been re-evaluated, and over the coming years, Rallycross Promoter plans to engage with and entertain spectators both on and off-site like never before, preserving rallycross’ rich history and DNA while exploring new opportunities and diversifying in every area.