PHL-OX participants allowed to use prototype rigs in 2024 season

MANILA: Petron Philippine Overland Expedition (PHL-OX) organizer Mototesto announced that participating teams may enter prototype rigs in the 2024 season of the competition.

In an interview with Zigwheels Philippines, PHL-OX Director Tim Tuazon said that the addition of the new vehicle category aims to test the capability of the prototype vehicles, as well as the skills of the drivers.

Prototype rigs are heavily modified race rigs designed to participate in highly technical 4x4 competitions. There are no restrictions on the engine type and body structure, as long as the rigs are equipped with a windshield, a firewall, and functioning electric systems, and comply with the safety guidelines of the competition.

“Usually, prototypes are engineered to do circuit tracks. They are not designed to do a 40-kilometer extreme mountain crossing, so competitors who will use prototypes have to tweak and know how to maintain and balance out their vehicles,” he added.

Mototesto noted in a press release that competing teams may only include prototype rigs if they also enter a minimum of one production vehicle.

Happening on February 19-25, the PHL-OX will include technical multi-stage segments that will challenge the participants’ off-road driving and survival skills. The expedition will begin in General Nakar, Quezon and conclude in Dingalan, Aurora.

The team with the fastest time to complete each timed stage will get the highest points. The winning team will take home P500,000, while the second and third placers will get P200,000 and P100,000, respectively.

Aside from the competing teams, campers and spectators may also join the expedition, tagging along the competition convoy from Campsite 1 in Masanga Point to Campsite 2 in Dingalan.

Photos from Hazel Nicole Carreon and Mototesto

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