“Victoria Presents Private EV Hillclimb Gathering This Sunday at Rob Roy!”
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Victoria Set to Host Exclusive EV Hillclimb Event This Sunday at Rob Roy!
This weekend, electric vehicle (EV) aficionados and motorsport lovers have something special in store as Victoria’s historic Rob Roy Hillclimb prepares for a unique EV event. The Rob Roy All Electric Hillclimb & EV Carshow is scheduled for Sunday, 27th October 2024, from 10 am to 3 pm at 375 Clintons Road, Smiths Gully, VIC. This thrilling event will showcase electric vehicles from prominent manufacturers such as Tesla, MG, BYD, KIA, Polestar, along with custom EV conversions, all vying for position in an exhilarating hillclimb atmosphere.
Quick Overview
- Date and Time: Sunday, 27th October 2024, 10 am to 3 pm.
- Venue: Rob Roy Hillclimb, Smiths Gully, Victoria (49 km from Melbourne CBD).
- Showcased Brands: Tesla, MG, BYD, KIA, Polestar, and custom EV conversions.
- Entry Fee: A$150 for both timed and non-timed participation.
- Spectator Advantage: Experience the performance of state-of-the-art electric vehicles in a demanding motorsport environment.
- Fundraising: Proceeds from the event will aid sustainability efforts at Rob Roy.
- Improvements: The Rob Roy track underwent significant enhancements in 2023, elevating the racing experience.
What is the Rob Roy Hillclimb?
Rob Roy Hillclimb is a motorsport venue located in Smiths Gully, Victoria, roughly 49 kilometers from Melbourne’s central business district. This location holds substantial historical significance in the Australian motorsport landscape, having been constructed in the 1930s by local pioneers. Some of Australia’s most iconic drivers, including triple F1 champion Jack Brabham, Norm Beechey, and Bob Jane, have raced at Rob Roy.
Following a devastating bushfire in the 1960s, the track was left abandoned. However, revival efforts by the MG Car Club Victoria in the 1990s took place after the closure of another local hillclimb venue, Templestowe. Over the years, the track has benefited from numerous upgrades, most recently in 2022, when government funding facilitated the resurfacing of the track and enhancements to spectator facilities.
Why Host an All-Electric Hillclimb?
This EV-exclusive hillclimb event marks a significant advancement for electric motorsport in Australia. While other nations have already embraced EVs across various motorsport formats, Australia has been slower to follow suit, mainly due to its smaller population and fewer EVs in circulation.
Nevertheless, with a rise in popularity of high-performance electric vehicles like the Tesla Model 3 Performance and the MG4 X-Power, this event presents an excellent chance for EV owners to explore the full potential of their vehicles in a safe, regulated setting. The Rob Roy track’s relatively short distance (about 0.7 km) makes it a perfect location for an EV event, allowing for competitive runs without interruptions from slower traffic.
What to Anticipate at the EV Hillclimb
The event is set to deliver spirited competition, with classes structured based on vehicle specifications such as weight, power, and motor type. This arrangement ensures that all competitors are up against similarly configured vehicles, creating a level playing field. Once all vehicle entries are finalized, the organizers will determine specific classes to foster a fair and competitive environment.
How to Participate in the Event
Participation fees are A$150, applicable for both timed and non-timed events. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, you can sign up for the “Come and Try” category, where your run will not be timed. However, for those seeking a competitive edge, the timed event offers official results.
Requirements to Compete
- Membership in a Motorsport Australia (MA) affiliated club, such as the Tesla Owners Club or MG Car Club.
- A helmet that complies with MA regulations.
- A Motorsport Australia Speed License.
- Protective clothing covering from wrist to ankle, made of cotton or wool for fire safety.
- A securely mounted 2kg fire extinguisher readily available to the driver (according to MA rules).
- Race numbers (issued on the day).
- Your vehicle must undergo a safety scrutineering check (e.g., working brakes, tires in good condition).
- Modern vehicles must be in stock condition unless they have a logbook.
- Classic EV restorations must have road registration.
- Unregistered EVs are evaluated case-by-case, though uncertified home-built EVs are generally not accepted.
Charging Facilities for EV Participants
While the Rob Roy Hillclimb website currently lists nearby petrol stations, it’s vital to emphasize that charging infrastructure is essential for EV participants. Here are some nearby charging alternatives to consider if you plan to enter the event:
Conclusion
The Rob Roy All Electric Hillclimb & EV Carshow represents a distinctive opportunity to observe or take part in one of Australia’s inaugural dedicated EV hillclimb events. Featuring a combination of high-performance electric vehicles, a historic racing venue, and a commitment to sustainability, this occasion signifies an important milestone for electric motorsport in Australia. Whether you are a competitor or a spectator, this is an event you won’t want to miss!
Q: What is the Rob Roy Hillclimb event?
A: The Rob Roy Hillclimb is a motorsport event taking place at the historic Rob Roy track in Smiths Gully, Victoria. The 2024 event focuses solely on electric vehicles, offering a timed hillclimb competition and an EV car show.
Q: How much does it cost to participate in the EV hillclimb?
A: The participation fee is A$150 for both timed and non-timed events. If you are seeking a more casual experience, you can choose the “Come and Try” category, where your run will not be timed.
Q: What types of EVs will be involved in the event?
A: The event invites a diverse array of electric vehicles, featuring models from Tesla, MG, BYD, KIA, Polestar, and custom EV conversions. Participants will be grouped into classes based on specifications such as weight and power.
Q: What do I need to compete in the event?
A: To take part, you must be a member of a Motorsport Australia (MA) affiliated club, hold an MA Speed License, wear compliant safety gear (helmet, non-flammable clothing), and ensure your vehicle meets safety standards following a scrutineering check.
Q: What is the length of the Rob Roy track?
A: The Rob Roy track spans approximately 0.7 km, featuring several challenging corners. It is a short yet engaging course, perfect for assessing the capabilities of electric vehicles in a managed setting.
Q: Is there charging infrastructure available near the event?
A: Yes, while the Rob Roy Hillclimb website lists nearby petrol stations, we have outlined various charging options in the area to cater to EV participants.
Q: What are the perks for spectators?
A: Spectators will have the chance to see some of the latest and most innovative electric vehicles tackle the historic and demanding Rob Roy track. Additionally, proceeds from the event will support sustainability efforts at the venue.
