Endurance- The endurance test stands as the apex dynamic event of the competition, comprising three rounds, with each round offering a maximum of 150 points. The organizers reserve the authority to establish site-specific procedures governing the execution of the endurance test, thereby confirming reasonable and consistent standards for all participating teams.
Endurance Objective- The Endurance Event is designed to evaluate the overall performance of the vehicle and to test the vehicle’s reliability and robustness.
1- Procedure- Each round of the endurance test is precisely structured to ensure a comprehensive assessment of each kart's performance and endurance capabilities. The test consists of a total of 8 laps, with specific significance assigned to each lap. It's worth noting that one round of endurance can cover a maximum distance of 20 kilometers.
The standing start positions for each round will be allocated based on the ascending order of acceleration scores attained by the participating teams, with the fastest car positioned on the 1st grid position. This practice ensures equitable and competitive starting positions, accurately reflecting each team's performance in the acceleration test.
Formation Lap (1st Lap): This initial lap allows drivers to adapt to the track conditions and prepare for the test ahead. It also serves as an opportunity for officials to verify the safety and readiness of all participating karts.
Formation Lap (2nd to 7th Laps): The subsequent 6 laps are designated for scoring purposes within the endurance test. During these laps, drivers are assessed based on their kart's performance, consistency, and durability under race conditions. The lap time of these laps is considered for scoring with the help of the scoring formula given below.
Completion Lap (8th Lap): The 8th and final lap of each round signifies the conclusion of the endurance test. At the end of this lap, drivers are required to enter the pit lane, signaling the completion of the round.
2- Pit Stop– In alignment with the essence of the endurance test, where the endurance and resilience of each kart are put to the ultimate test, pit stops are not permitted until the completion of the designated laps. Any kart entering the pit lane before completing the required laps will be classified as "Did Not Finish" (DNF) for that round. This regulation underscores the fundamental aspect of endurance racing, emphasizing the necessity for karts to demonstrate consistent performance and durability throughout the entirety of the test.
3- Vehicle Starting/Restarting- The vehicle must have the capability to start or restart without requiring external assistance once the heat has commenced. In the event of a stall on the track, the stalled vehicle will be granted one lap by the following car or a maximum of two minutes (whichever comes first) to restart. Failure to restart within the specified timeframe will result in the vehicle being considered disabled and scored as DNF for the heat. If this issue occurs again after the leader has finished the course, the vehicle will be classified as DNF.
4- Vehicle Breakdown and Stalls- If a vehicle experiences a breakdown and is deemed unfit or unsafe to continue by the marshal, it will be classified as DNF. The vehicle will be promptly pushed off the track and will not be permitted to re-enter or re-start. In the event of a stall or incidental occurrence, such as crushing a cone (obviously not crashing into the boundary), the vehicle will be allowed to restart and re-enter the course from where it went off track. However, no mechanical work may be conducted on the vehicle during this time.
If a vehicle is observed with components falling off the kart during the endurance test, it will be immediately stopped and thoroughly checked for conformance and safety. If found to be unfit or unsafe, the vehicle will be disqualified from the respective round of endurance.
5- Endurance Minimum Speed Requirement- If a car is unable to maintain lap times within 133% of the fastest lap time for the course, and then it must exit immediately. Disqualification for failure to maintain the minimum speed will be made at the discretion of the Chief of Dynamic Events.
6- Endurance Lap Timing- Each lap of the endurance event will be individually timed electronically with the help of transponder.
7- Communication with Driver- To ensure safe driving, drivers are allowed to communicate with their pit crew using either the radio system or cellular network. However, the driver must not operate any device for establishing communication, such as making phone call while driving, as this can divert their attention and lead to serious accidents on the track. It is important for drivers to remain focused on the track at all times and only communicate with their pit crew with insignificant efforts.
Penalties-
Off the Course : 20 seconds
Failure to obey a flag : 1 minute
Reckless or Aggressive Driving : Disqualified
Vehicle to Vehicle contact : Disqualified
Mechanical Problem : No additional penalty other than the time lost to ensure that the car is safe to continue.
Inexperienced Driver : The Chief of Dynamic Events may disqualify a driver if the driver is too slow, too aggressive, or driving in a manner that, in the sole opinion of the event, officials, demonstrates an inability to properly control their car resulting in a DNF.
Endurance Scoring Formula-
Endurance score = 115x [(Tlongest–Tyours)/ (Tlongest–Tshortest)] + 35
Where:
Tmax is maximum time taken by any team to complete the test
Tyours is time taken by the team being scored to complete the test
Tmin is minimum time taken by any team to complete the test
