Groups and classes for the 2005 Dakar

This year, a specific classification has been created for Quads who will now be competing in a category recognised in its own right.

BIKE	CAR	TRUCK	ASSISTANCE
Groups G1 : Production G2 : Super Production G3 : Quad G4 : Expérimental Cylindrées 0 to 250 cm³ 251 to 450 cm³ + 451 cm³	Groups T1 : Production cars  T1.1 : Petrol engined  T1.2 : Diesel engined T2 : Super Production cars  T2.1 : Petrol engined  T2.2 : Diesel engined  T2.3 : 2 wheel drive Additional classifications Female Solo	Groups T4.1 : 4x4 trucks with engine over the front axle T4.2 : 6 to 8 wheel trucks with engine over the front axle	Car Petrol engined Diesel engined Truck 4x4 6x6 8x8

Main changes in the race regulations

Safety
The 2005 race will be characterised by zero tolerance
Maximum speed in all villages will be limited to 50 km/h, with penalties applied after the first km/hr in excess of the limit

Navigation
The number of GPS points given to competitors will be limited : with the possibility of introducing one or more stages without GPS.

Marathon Stages
There are two marathon stages which will continue to be prohibited to vehicles in the « Assistance » category. Following the stage, the vehicles taking part will immediately be parked in a parc fermé.

Regulations
The complete revision of the sports regulations is one of the priorities for the 2005 race. Work commissions meet regularly and, in collaboration with the FIA and the FFSA, are examining changes that could make the regulations clearer. The new texts will be issued on the 1st of September 2004.

Officials
ASO and the FFSA have decided to increase the numbers and qualifications of officials in an effort to create a highly professional team.

Assistance
The 2005 assistance itinerary will be reduced by 45%.