The FIA World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC) enters its decisive stage with the bp Ultimate Rally-Raid Portugal, taking place from 22 to 28 September, across the tracks of Alentejo, Ribatejo, and Spain’s Extremadura region. Organized by the Automóvel Club de Portugal (ACP), it is the only event held in Europe and will feature the best cross-country drivers and riders in the world, in both cars and bikes.
A rally raid is quite different from a traditional rally, as it combines endurance, navigation, and extreme adventure. It is a long-distance race that can cross terrains as varied as vast deserts, rough tracks, and dense forests. Every kilometre is a challenge, and the key word is endurance — both for the machines and the competitors. The impressive cars competing in this championship are specially built to withstand the toughness of the races.
Last year, FIA and ASO changed the names of the different vehicle categories. According to technical characteristics, they are now divided into four classes.
Ultimate
This is the top category, featuring four-wheel drive prototypes from the T1+ and T1.1 classes. These cars are purpose-built for rally-raid competition and can be powered by internal combustion engines (petrol or diesel), hybrid, or electric systems. Power output reaches around 360 hp and, for safety reasons, top speed is limited to 170 km/h. In this class, you will find the Toyota Hilux, Dacia Sandriders, Ford Raptor, and Mini JCW Rally — the usual contenders for victory. There is also the T1.2 class, for two-wheel drive prototypes.
In 2025, all cars in this category will be running on 100% sustainable fuels, including biofuels and synthetic fuels. Safety has also been upgraded, with improved safety cells and enhanced fire protection systems. Navigation and communication systems have likewise evolved to make life easier for the drivers.
Stock
These are production-based 4x4 off-road vehicles, petrol or diesel, modified according to FIA Appendix J regulations. This category highlights the reliability and robustness of standard 4x4 models available on the market. Popular examples include the Mitsubishi Pajero, Toyota Land Cruiser, and Nissan Patrol.
Challenger
Lightweight off-road prototypes modified for competition. It is one of the most popular categories with competitors. These are light, powerful, and highly effective vehicles, capable of performance levels close to T1 cars. Maximum speed is limited to 135 km/h. The most common models are the Taurus T3 and Can-Am Maverick.
SSV
This category is for Side-by-Side Vehicles (SSV), specially prepared for competition. They can be equipped with a 1,050 cc turbo engine or up to 2,000 cc naturally aspirated. As an entry-level category in cross-country, SSVs have more restrictions compared to Challengers, including greater limitations on chassis modifications. The Can-Am Maverick X3, Yamaha YXZ1000R S, and Polaris RZR are the most widely used, offering highly competitive racing. Maximum speed is limited to 125 km/h.
There are also four bike categories represented at bp Ultimate Rally-Raid Portugal.
RallyGP
The premier class for two-wheelers. These are bikes with up to 450 cc engines and a top speed limited to 160 km/h. Entry into RallyGP is defined by the FIM, according to each rider’s sporting record.
Rally2
Competition bikes with a lower level of preparation than RallyGP, but also with engines up to 450 cc and speed limited to 160 km/h.
Rally3
These bikes are very close to production models, with engines up to 450 cc and a maximum speed of 130 km/h.
Quad
Four-wheeled bikes (quads) specially prepared for rally raid, with a maximum speed of 130 km/h.