DEFINITION
A momentum zone is a course section where judges measure the speed the car carries rather than the angle held. It is usually a fast sweeper or the entry to a high-speed section.
Drivers should commit to entry speed in this zone and accept slightly less angle in exchange for the speed score.
HISTORY & ORIGIN
Momentum zones became a named concept in modern course design as judges sought to reward the speed component of drifting more explicitly.
TECHNIQUE BREAKDOWN
Driver enters the zone at full pace, holds a moderate angle, and prioritises throttle over steering. Judges check the speed trace at the zone exit.
PRO TIPS & COMMON MISTAKES
• Don't sacrifice line for angle in a momentum zone. The judges have already told you what they want.
• Common mistake: applying maximum angle in a momentum zone and losing 10 km/h of exit speed for nothing.
He posted the fastest speed of the day through the momentum zone before the chicane.