AutoSolo vs AutoTest: Which is Right for You?

Unveiling the Thrills of AutoSolo and AutoTest

For motorsport enthusiasts looking for an accessible entry point into the world of competitive driving, AutoSolo and AutoTest events offer an exciting and engaging experience. These disciplines, part of the Motorsport UK (MSUK) Streetcar initiative, are designed to encourage newcomers to the sport. While both involve navigating a timed course marked by cones, there are distinct differences that cater to varying skill levels and preferences. Whether you're a seasoned driver or a complete beginner, understanding these nuances is key to choosing the right event for you.

What Exactly Are AutoSolo and AutoTest?

At their core, both AutoSolo and AutoTest are timed competitions that test a driver's precision, car control, and ability to memorise and execute a course. They are typically held in large, open areas like car parks, airfields, or grass fields. The courses are laid out using plastic cones, pylons, or markers, often referred to as 'gates', which competitors must drive through or around as quickly as possible. A crucial element in both is the need to bring the car to a halt within a designated 'box' at the end of each run. Penalties are applied for striking cones or taking incorrect routes, adding a layer of strategic thinking to the raw speed.

The skills honed in these events are invaluable, even for those who may progress to other forms of motorsport. As rally legend Paddy Hopkirk once noted, AutoTests provide an excellent foundation in car control that is transferable to many disciplines.

Key Differences: AutoSolo vs. AutoTest

While sharing a common goal, AutoSolo and AutoTest diverge in several important aspects:

AutoSolo

• Surface: Exclusively held on sealed tarmac.
• Gear Usage: All forward motion only. Reverse gear is not permitted.
• Vehicle Requirements: Road legal cars with valid MOT, insurance, and tax are mandatory. The car must be driven to the event.
• Driver Age: Minimum age of 14.
• Passenger: Mandatory. If the driver does not hold a full RTA license, the passenger must have one and possess AutoTest experience. If the driver holds an RTA license, the passenger can be 12 (closed car) or 15 (open car).
• Car Sharing: Allowed, with each driver marked separately.
• Engine Capacity: Maximum 2000cc (including forced induction) if the driver does not hold an RTA license. Turbocharged or supercharged engines have a 1.3 modifier applied to their capacity for class calculation.
• Tyres: Must be normal road tyres, not from specific MSUK listed categories (1b or 1c).
• Silencing: Cars must be adequately silenced, with organisers potentially conducting sound tests.

AutoTest

• Surface: Can be held on various surfaces including grass, sand, or sealed tarmac.
• Gear Usage: Can be designated as 'All Forward Motion' or 'With Reversing'. Events 'With Reversing' may include navigating coned 'garage areas' that require reverse gear.
• Vehicle Requirements: MOT and Tax are only mandatory if stipulated in the Supplementary Regulations (SRs).
• Driver Age: Minimum age of 16.
• Passenger: Not allowed.
• Car Sharing: Allowed, with each driver marked separately.
• Engine Capacity: Maximum 1400cc if the driver does not hold an RTA license. Forced induction is not permitted in this category.
• Tyres: Must be normal road tyres, not from specific MSUK listed categories (1b or 1c).
• Silencing: Cars must be adequately silenced, with organisers potentially conducting sound tests.

Production Car Autotest (PCA)

A variation of AutoTest, PCA events share many similarities but have specific requirements:

• Surface: Grass or sealed tarmac.
• Gear Usage: Can be 'All Forward Motion' or 'With Reversing' (maximum of 4 reversing engagements).
• Vehicle Requirements: MOT and Tax are only mandatory if stipulated in the SRs.
• Driver Age: Minimum age of 14.
• Passenger: Mandatory. Similar rules to AutoSolo regarding passenger licenses and experience apply.
• Car Sharing: Allowed, with each driver marked separately.
• Engine Capacity: Maximum 2000cc (including forced induction) if the driver does not hold an RTA license. Turbocharged or supercharged engines have a 1.3 modifier applied.
• Tyres: Must be normal road tyres, not from specific MSUK listed categories (1b or 1c).
• Silencing: Cars must be adequately silenced, with organisers potentially conducting sound tests.
• Special Feature: Unlike standard AutoTests, PCA events require a passenger, adding a collaborative element and often allowing for shared driving duties.

Classes and Car Eligibility

Both AutoSolo and AutoTest events typically feature a range of classes to ensure fair competition. These often include:

• Unmodified touring cars (under and over 1400cc)
• Modified touring cars (under and over 1400cc)
• Non-mass production or special cars

Additional classes may exist for larger engine capacities (e.g., 1800cc, 2000cc) and historic cars. When it comes to modifications, 'unmodified' cars must retain their complete exterior and interior, including rear seats. A sump guard and rollover cage are usually permitted. 'Modified' cars allow for engine upgrades, suspension and brake improvements, stripped interiors, and lighter exterior components, as long as the car retains a resemblance to a road-going vehicle.

Car Examples: A wide variety of vehicles are seen at these events, including popular choices like the Audi A1, Citroen C2, Fiat Panda, Ford Fiesta, Mazda MX5, Mini, Peugeot 107, Renault Clio, Toyota Yaris, Vauxhall Corsa, and VW Polo. Kit cars like the GBS Zero and Caterham are also frequent competitors, often in their own classes.

Getting Started: Your First Event

Embarking on your motorsport journey is simpler than you might think:

1. Join a Club: Become a member of a motor club that organises these events. Many clubs welcome spectators to their events before you commit to joining.
2. Find a Car: Ensure your car is road legal and has a valid MOT, insurance, and tax (especially crucial for AutoSolo).
3. Get Your License: Apply for a free MSUK RS Clubman Competition license. Visit the MSUK website for the application portal.
4. Study the Rules: Visit the organising club's website, download the Supplementary Regulations (SRs), and read them carefully.
5. Enter the Event: Complete the event entry form and pay the fee. Some clubs offer discounts for junior drivers or first-time attendees.

Preparing Your Car

A few essential checks before you head out:

• Check all fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid).
• Ensure the battery is securely mounted.
• Verify all lights and electrics are functioning correctly.
• Perform a brake test to ensure optimal performance.

On the Day: What to Expect

Arrive at the venue with all necessary documentation: proof of MOT, insurance, tax (if applicable), your MSUK license, RTA license (if you have one), and club membership card. Pack a small toolkit, tyre pressure gauge, pump, a helmet (if required by the organisers), waterproofs, and a basic first-aid kit.

Upon arrival, you'll sign on, receive your competition number, and may be given a course diagram. Attach your number to your car. It's vital to check tyre pressures according to manufacturer recommendations. Ensure the car's interior is free of loose objects that could become hazards. Your car will undergo a scrutineering check to ensure it meets safety and noise regulations.

Before the competition starts, take the time to walk the course. Familiarise yourself with the layout, the direction of travel through the gates, and the location of the stop box. A driver's briefing will usually cover safety procedures and any specific event instructions.

The Competition: Timed Runs and Penalties

Drivers will complete multiple runs on the course, typically between 3 to 6, depending on the event's regulations. The fastest valid run, including any time penalties, determines the final score. Penalties are common for:

• Striking cones (usually 5 or 10 seconds per strike)
• Failing to stop within the designated box
• Taking an incorrect route

Many events operate with multiple cars on the course simultaneously, with marshals managing the start and finish lines. Timing usually starts the moment a car crosses the start line. If a car stops or encounters an issue, a red flag is shown, and drivers behind must stop or slow down, often being granted a replacement run.

Who Wins AutoSolo?

The winner of an AutoSolo or AutoTest event is the driver who completes the course in the lowest possible time after all penalties have been applied. Awards are typically given for the fastest times in each class, as well as an overall winner. Runner-up awards are also common, depending on the number of competitors in each class.

A Typical Event Day: An Example

Consider an event organised by Farnborough and District Motor Club (FDMC). Drivers arrive early, sign on, and have their cars scrutineered. The day begins with a driver's briefing, followed by the competition. Competitors are usually divided into groups and complete several runs on a course. After each set of runs, the course is often altered, requiring drivers to re-familiarise themselves with the new layout. Marshals, often drawn from the competing drivers themselves, play a crucial role in running the event safely. The day concludes with a prize-giving ceremony, celebrating the fastest times and best performances.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the main difference between AutoSolo and AutoTest?
The primary differences lie in the permitted use of reverse gear (allowed in AutoTest with reversing, not in AutoSolo) and the surface (AutoSolo is tarmac only, AutoTest can be on various surfaces). AutoSolo also mandates a passenger, while standard AutoTest does not.

Q2: Do I need a special car to compete?
No, you can start with a standard road-legal car. While modified cars exist, unmodified touring cars are very common and competitive, especially in the lower capacity classes.

Q3: How do I get a Motorsport UK license?
You can apply for a free RS Clubman Competition license directly through the Motorsport UK website. This is the entry-level license required for these events.

Q4: Can I compete if I'm under 18?
Yes, the minimum age for AutoTest is 16, and for AutoSolo and PCA, it's 14. Specific rules apply regarding passenger age if you are under 18 and have an RTA license.

Q5: What happens if I hit a cone?
Hitting a cone typically incurs a time penalty, usually 5 or 10 seconds, added to your run time. Failing to complete the course correctly or missing gates also results in penalties or disqualification.

Conclusion: Your Motorsport Adventure Awaits

AutoSolo and AutoTest provide an accessible, affordable, and incredibly fun introduction to motorsport. They demand skill, precision, and a good understanding of your vehicle. With minimal requirements to get started, there's no better way to experience the thrill of competitive driving and develop your car control skills. So, find your local club, get your license, and prepare for an exciting day out on the course!

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