All cars in all rally classes are governed by strict rules to make the competition as fair as possible, while still allowing for personal settings and solutions. The goal, however, is for drivers and teams to compete on as equal terms as possible. Since 2022, today’s international rallies are divided into five classes from Rally1, the top class in WRC, to Rally5. In ERC, Rally2 cars, the same as in WRC2, apply in the main event. This creates a broad starting field with many drivers and teams that can challenge for victory. Both those who are aiming for the entire series and local drivers who participate in individual competitions.
The cars in ERC are factory-built and available for both private drivers and private teams to purchase, but there are also factory or semi-factory teams that compete. The class is Rally2, the same cars that are driven in WRC’s second class, WRC2, previously known as R5.
Rally2 cars are built on an original body shell according to strict guidelines established in the technical regulations, and where manufacturers have classified alternative components such as the engine, drivetrain, suspension, brakes, and more.
Unlike Rally1, Rally2 does not have an electric motor and only uses a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine.
Rally2 has slightly simpler technology than Rally1 but is still a highly advanced rally car.
Many manufacturers build and sell Rally2 cars: Skoda, Ford, Citroën, Hyundai, VW, and recently, Toyota has also presented a new Rally2-Yaris.
ModelAt least 2,500 units of the standard model must have been produced in the last 12 months |
Engine1.6-liter, direct-injected, turbocharged, four-cylinder engine with 32mm valves |
PowerPower is regulated to around 285 horsepower |
Engine BlockEngine block is based on the specifications of the standard car |
ModificationsModifications are allowed for crankshafts, connecting rods, pistons, cylinder liners, valves, and camshafts |
Gearing & DrivePermanent four-wheel drive, five-speed sequential gearbox with paddle shift on the steering wheel |
DiffMechanical front and rear differentials |
Wheels7×15-inch wheels for gravel, 8×18-inch wheels for asphalt |
Brakes300mm diameter brake discs for gravel, 355mm for asphalt |
WeightMinimum 1230kg, 1390kg with driver and co-driver |