A motorsport format using cones to define a course on a parking lot or airfield. Drivers compete one at a time for fastest lap.
Autocross (also called Solo, autoslalom, or autotest) is a motorsport format where drivers compete on a course defined by traffic cones, typically set up in large parking lots or unused airfields. Cars run one at a time on the same course. Each driver typically gets multiple runs and the fastest single time counts. Penalties (typically 2 seconds) are added for cone hits or off-course excursions.
Autocross emphasizes precise driving technique over outright speed. Course design typically includes tight slaloms, sharp corners, and short straights. Top speeds rarely exceed 60-70 mph but the demand on car control, weight transfer management, and braking precision is significant. Successful autocross cars are typically light, well-balanced, and have responsive steering rather than high power output.
SCCA (Sports Car Club of America) Solo events are the dominant autocross series in the United States, running national and regional championships. The events welcome stock cars and modified cars in different classes. Common autocross cars include the Mazda MX-5 Miata, Subaru WRX STI, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Honda Civic Type R, and Chevrolet Corvette across various class configurations.