Scotland’s FIA ecoRally Cup returns to Tayside for 2026, with international EV teams set to compete across more than 300 miles of specially selected road stages from August 1-2.
The electric-only motorsport competition made its Scottish debut in July 2025 – the first FIA event held in Scotland for 14 years. Reigning champions Michael Žďárský and Jakub Nábělek took the overall victory in their Hyundai Kona Electric.
Emmanuel Guigou and Emilien le Borgne claimed the Category Two class win in their Alpine A290.
The National class went to James Hotles and Iain Tullie, who shared a Honda e:Ny1.
Dundee Returns as Host City
Dundee will once again serve as the event’s base. The UNESCO City of Design earned hosting rights through its strong EV infrastructure – 34% of the city’s fleet vehicles run on electric power, supported by an extensive charging network.
Dundee City Council is playing a key role in Scotland’s commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2045.
The event receives backing from Motorsport UK. Technical director Ian Smith expressed enthusiasm for ecoRally’s return to Scotland.
“Motorsport UK is thrilled to have ecoRally within our events calendar. Part of our remit is the promotion of an ‘eclectic’ approach to motorsport, and this event does just that, with the stellar range of electric marques competing during 2025.”
“We would encourage anyone looking to enjoy an alternative type of motorsport, with Scotland providing a beautiful backdrop, to join us next summer,” Smith added.
Focus on Roads and Showcasing EVs
Event clerk of the course Richard Crozier, a British rally driver, highlighted Scotland’s natural advantages for the competition.
“Here in Scotland we are blessed with access to so many great roads, the event was about the showcasing of EV, and of Scotland.”
“We are thrilled to have the 2026 event in the calendar and look forward to welcoming even more teams to Dundee next summer,” Crozier said.
The ecoRally format differs significantly from traditional rallying. Teams use unmodified all-electric and hybrid vehicles rather than purpose-built race cars.
Instead of pure speed, competitors are scored on both pace and energy efficiency.
Teams must record all checkpoints within specified time windows and complete regularity tests that measure average speed precision. Points are awarded for navigation accuracy, problem-solving skills, and teamwork – not just getting from point to point fastest.
The FIA ecoRally Cup launched in 2022. The 2025 season features 14 rounds across Europe and Asia, with manufacturers including Hyundai, Alpine, Honda, Škoda, and Omoda fielding entries.
