Nitrocross will utilize the new FC2 platform as the sole vehicle for its Nitrocross NEXT support class from next season.
Currently, the car for the main development category for the rallycross-like series is the SuperCar Lites machine built by Olsbergs MSE in Sweden. The car has a long history developing talent in the U.S., having previously been used for Global Rallycross and Americas Rallycross’ second-tier competitions since 2013.
Following the announcement that OMSE — under the guise of its First Corner venture — will recycle and upcycle components from the SuperCar Lites as the basis of the FC2, Nitrocross has opted to embrace the new platform, becoming the first series to commit to the initiative.
“This marks a significant leap for the property,” said Chip Pankow, general manager of Nitrocross. “Through the refurbishment of existing cars, we are meeting all the targets set by the series at a fraction of the cost.
“These upcycled cars are set to become one of the most intriguing developments in this tier of motorsport, and I anticipate witnessing the next generation of talented drivers competing in these highly capable vehicles.”
While the FC1-X — the car used in Nitrocross’ premier Group E category — is all-electric, the FC2 remains a combustion-powered car, but will run on entirely fossil-free fuels in keeping with the championship’s environmentally friendly ethos. The car will also be dubbed the NEXT EVO in Nitrocross, reflecting the platform’s evolution from its previous generation.
“The NEXT EVO based on the new First Corner FC2 represents an innovative and efficient way to upgrade an entire vehicle,” said Andreas Eriksson, CEO of First Corner. “Based on First Corner’s very popular Supercar Lites concept, this upgrade kit addresses all of the areas that drivers and customers want, while keeping costs relatively low.
“I can’t wait to see the next generation of Nitrocross drivers on the track in the NEXT EVO, it is a major step forward for the series and drivers.”
Six drivers will contest Nitrocross NEXT at Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park in Phoenix this weekend, with American Rally Association regular Patrick Gruszka joining the series for the first time. Jimmy Henderson currently tops the development class’ standings with a brace of third places and two second places across the first four rounds of the season. He leads Lane Vacala, the winner of the first three races, by two points, Vacala having finished sixth in the most recent round in Utah.