2009 Cardboard Car Derby; AKA EcoFest Grand Prix (Formula EGP)

The goal is to have a FUN, safe, inventive and team building event…come join the fun in this inaugural Derby…Power or not! All levels are welcome!

NOTE:  If this is something you are interested in, but may need some tips on getting started, or even on how to build one, construction tips will be available online soon; or, please contact Joe at joe.lamb@thecabin.net.

• Click to download printable brochure
• Click to download printable PDF version of rules and regulations and application OR
• Click here for online application
 

Rules and Regulations

1. Intent.

• The intent of this race is to promote engineering skill and alternative energy as well as demonstrate the intrinsic worth of discarded materials.

2. Principles.

• The concept of "something built from nothing" is to be the guiding principle of this race. In keeping with this principle the monetary outlay for any vehicle should not exceed $100.

3. Chassis.

• The chassis shall be constructed of materials readily identifiable as paper products (all types of cardboard being the logical choice due to its structural properties).
• Formula EGP vehicles are to be constructed as single-seat machines. There shall be no provisions for a passenger or co-driver. There are no restrictions as to chassis dimensions, number of wheels, or method of construction.
• All vehicles must have operable, effective braking systems for the wheel or wheels at the front of the vehicle. Brakes for the rear wheel or wheels are suggested but not required.
• Aerodynamic chassis features are not limited or restricted.

4. Suspension/steering/braking systems.

• Suspension members shall be made from materials readily identifiable as paper products.
• Metal and wood may be used in bearings, motor/braking equipment mounting points and associated steering mechanisms. In keeping with the principle of the event metal components should be as inconspicuous as possible. Wood should be used in favor of metal wherever possible. It is strongly encouraged that discarded metal or wood be used.
• Any braking components engineered for use in bicycles are permitted, provided that they are discarded or are otherwise disused.
• Wheels shall be made of plastic (no rubber)- A limited supply of 10” plastic wheels are available for purchase (first come, first serve basis) ($4 each)by calling Debbie at 327-2105.
• NOTE: Cars will need a turning radius of about 10 feet. It will be a combination of slalom and tight and sweeping turns in the fashion of a SCCA autocross ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7V-bBgNWXfI ) ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TXAgbXAbC5A

       5. Fasteners/adhesives.

•       Tape, string and glue may be used for paper product-to-paper product bonding. There are no restrictions on adhesives. No fiberglass may be used in the construction of the chassis, drivetrain or suspension.
• Epoxy-impregnated or otherwise chemically reinforced paper products may only be used in the vehicle's suspension, drivetrain, or steering components .  
  

6. Propulsion.

• Internal-combustion engines are not permitted.
• Metal gears, chains and cranks engineered for bicycles may be used in the vehicle’s drivetrain.
• Only sealed 12-volt lead-acid batteries designed and intended for automobile use are permitted in vehicles utilizing electric power for propulsion. Vehicles with leaking or otherwise faulty batteries will not be allowed to operate at Formula EGP events.
• There are no restrictions on the type, number or amperage of electric motors, provided that the motors are discarded or otherwise disused.


7. Driver/Spectator Safety.

• All drivers must wear a DOT certified helmet during Formula EGP practice and race sessions.
• Elbow pads and abrasion-resistant clothing are strongly recommended, but not required.
• Drivers allowing their vehicles to travel beyond 20 feet of the racing course during practice sessions or in the race itself will be disqualified without possibility of appeal and their eligibility to participate in future Formula EGP races will be reviewed by Formula EGP stewards.
• Reckless or irresponsible driving at or associated with any EcoFest event will not be tolerated. Drivers or teams found to be operating any vehicles in such fashion will be disqualified without possibility of appeal and their eligibility to participate in future Formula EGP races will be reviewed by Formula EGP stewards.


8. Scoring.

• The vehicle which completes three laps of the course in the least amount of time shall be deemed the winner, with subsequent positions determined in an order based on increasing time taken to complete the course. Timing will be the sole responsibility of a Formula EGP steward designated as timekeeper.
• One second shall be deducted for each cone overturned or moved by the vehicle outside of its designated area.
• Vehicles found to be in violation of the construction guidelines shall be penalized four seconds for each infraction.
• An open practice session will be held prior to the event at a time to be determined by Ecofest and Formula EGP organizers.


9. Other.

• Teams will be asked for a “photo Album,” documentation, of how it was built
• Vehicles using components donated from local businesses or enterprises shall bear the name or logo of said entity conspicuously and prominently on the chassis.
• All decisions as to vehicle eligibility and event timekeeping and penalties are to be made swiftly through three-quarters majority by Formula EGP stewards. Should the decisions of Formula EGP stewards be appealed, the final decision must be reached within 30 minutes.
• Where conflicts within the Formula EGP rules arise or in cases where Formula EGP stewards are "deadlocked" in a decision, the opinion, belief or whim our guest judge will be observed and effected without discussion.

10. Application, Registration, and Liability Waiver.

•   The main sponsor or individual must go through the regular application process set forth for the Conway EcoFest. Click here to apply or visit www.ConwayEcoFest.com, or call 327-2105.
• All participants will be required to sign a waiver of liability.