Some answers to Frequently Asked Questions

What is Autotesting
Getting Started
Cars used
Modifying your car
Do I need a special licence
What age can I start at
Can I use someone else’s car
Where can I get help and advice
What can I do if I don’t want to compete

What is Autotesting

Autotesting is a fun and cheap form of motorsport. It is one of the oldest forms of motorsport, and has had many famous names pass through the sport over the years. Colin McRae started his motorsport career in autotesting. Autotesting is one of the cheapest forms of motorsport, yet is one of the best ways to hone your driving skills.

Autotesting comes in several different forms. It is essentially a test of car control, against the clock. Events are usually held in large car parks or industrial sites. The organisers will set up a series of routes, which will consist of a number of manoeuvres. Competitors are required to complete the course as quickly as they can, with penalties incurred for striking marker posts, or not completing any part of the course correctly. Each route would usually take between 1 and 2 minute to complete. Each competitor will usually get 3 attempts at each route, with the best 2 times counting towards your final result.

As I mentioned, there are several different forms of Autotesting. Traditionally, the routes would involve a combination of forward and reverse manoeuvres. The course is designed such that you can drive around at a gentle pace, but making use of hand brake turns and reverse spins will dramatically improve your times. While there continue to be many traditional style autotest events taking place, there is also an increasing trend towards ‘All Forwards Autotests’. As the name suggests, there is no reversing involved in these events. Such events are proving to be popular, especially for the new comer, as the routes are easier to memorize and the driving is easier to get started with. Once the all forwards format has been mastered, the traditional style of event can offer a more involving and thrilling driving challenge. Very occasionally, there are also ‘Solo Autotests’, which are essentially all forwards autotests, but are a little more open, and faster.

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Photography

Dumfries 26th Feb
Dumfries 29th Jan
Johnstone 3rd Dec
Hamilton 30th Nov
Knockhill 27th Nov