Solo Overview

Photo Credit: Jon Krolewicz
Solo, which is more commonly known as autocross, is an automotive competition that emphasizes driver’s skill and precise vehicle handling. The events are usually held in large parking lots or airstrips, and courses are laid out using traffic cones and chalk. To keep things fair for everyone, the SCCA has created vehicle classing to cover anything from family sedans to open wheel formula cars. That way, every competitor is up against drivers in similarly prepped vehicles. Participants navigate the course, one at a time, trying to outrun their competitors, usually by very small margins.
While Solo may not be as common as other motorsports, the participation and excitement in the sport is incredible. In 2010 alone, over 1,200 SCCA sanctioned Solo events were held throughout the United States. On any given weekend in the southeast, you can probably find an event within just a few hours of your home.
So, why is this sport so popular? We could probably list 100 reasons and still not cover everything that drives thousands of enthusiasts keep their alarm clocks set on Saturday.
Our top 3:
- Easy and Affordable – Most local events cost $30 to $40 to enter, and all you need to get started is a car and a driver’s license.
- Fair and Competitive – 0 to 60 times, 1/4 mile times, and lateral G’ are numbers for magazines. Autocrossers make their own decisions on who has the best car and driver!
- Safe – While never exceeding typical highway speeds, courses are also laid out so that the only damage will likely be to your ego.
Ready to try Solo? Click our Getting Started link for more information on preparing for your first of many events!