Rallying is a popular motorsport event that sees teams of drivers competing in a series of challenging stages. One of the most iconic elements of rally racing is the use of light bars on the cars, which are used to indicate the position of the car relative to other vehicles on the course.
However, light bars on rally cars are a recent trend and some people believe that they’re actually wrong for many reasons. First, they take up valuable space on the car that could be used for more important equipment. Second, they’re often incorrectly positioned, making it difficult for other drivers to judge their position. And finally, they can create dangerous conditions on the course by interfering with other drivers’ view.
So why do so many rally cars still feature light bars? The answer may surprise you!
The Purpose of a Rally Car
A rally car is designed to travel at high speeds and handle poorly-maintained roads. The purpose of a rally car’s lighting system is not to make the car look good while driving in a rally, but to keep it safe while on the road. Lighting on a rally car should be used for the purpose of warning other drivers and aiding in the car’s visibility. A rally car’s lighting system should not be used as an advertising tool or to make the car look good.
The Parts of a Rally Car
When you think of a rally car, you likely imagine a flashy yellow or green machine with bright light bars mounted on the roof. But according to rally champion and multiple IndyCar Series Champion Scott Maxwell, this is far from the best way to go about things. Maxwell, a seasoned veteran of the sport who has competed in more than 150 rallies around the world, believes that light bars are a waste of time and money on rally cars. Here’s why:
1) They’re ineffective
Maxwell says that light bars are almost useless when it comes to helping drivers see in low-light conditions. “Even with high-intensity discharge headlights and/or fog lights on, you still have shadows cast by trees and other obstacles which can block your vision,” he explains. “The only time light bars might come into play is if you’re driving through clear forest or open countryside where there are few obstructions.”
2) They’re expensive
Light bars can cost a great deal of money to install and maintain on a rally car. “A set of high-intensity discharge headlights will run you anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000, while fog lights can be even more pricey,” Maxwell says. “
Light Bars on a Rally Car
When rally drivers race on closed courses, it is important to keep a low profile so as not to be detected by other competitors. This means that any visual cues, such as light bars on the vehicle, can give away the driver’s position.
The use of light bars on rally cars has been divisive since they first appeared on the scene. Some drivers feel that they add an extra level of safety and visibility, while others argue that they give away the driver’s position and can actually lead to dangerous close calls. Ultimately, it is up to each individual rally driver to decide whether or not they want to use light bars on their vehicle.
The Argument for and Against Light Bars on a Rally Car
When it comes to rallying, there are a few things that must be considered. One of which is the visual appeal of the car. While bright colors and wild designs are often associated with rallies, most people don’t want their car to resemble a demolition derby racer.
So why do so many rally cars have light bars?
Supporters of light bars say that they add an aggressive look to the car and create an edge in competition. They also argue that they improve visibility during night rallies, when other drivers may be less visible due to the darkness.
Critics of light bars on rally cars argue that they take away from the overall look of the car. They also argue that they are not necessary and can actually be dangerous.
Ultimately, it’s up to each driver which style of racing he or she prefers. If you’re looking for a rally car that has a more subdued appearance, light bars might not be the best option for you.
Conclusion
Light bars on rally cars are a common sight, but there is a reason why they are frowned upon by many rally fans. The light bar on a rally car is used for one purpose and one purpose only: to warn the driver of potential danger ahead. When driving in Rallycross, where the speeds can reach up to 200 miles per hour, it is crucial that the driver be able to see everything around them in order to make quick decisions about whether or not to avoid an obstacle. Light bars attached to the vehicle distract from this task, instead directing attention towards the flashy display rather than towards what might be dangerous ahead.