Electrical System

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Table of Contents

Circuit Protection & Wiring #

A fuse or circuit breaker is required in any electrical circuit between the battery and any electrical device and shall be mounted as close as practically possible to the battery.
All fuses and circuit breakers shall be sized to protect the wiring to which they are connected. The current rating shall not exceed the maximum rating listed in the adjacent table for standard automotive cable.
All wiring shall be well insulated, securely attached to the frame or body, and protected from moving parts and chafing.
Wiring passing through holes with sharp edges or through sheet metal shall be protected by an insulating grommet or other suitable device.
Terminals shall be securely fastened to prevent loosening or short circuits during competition.
No part of the electrical system may use the vehicle frame as a conductor. The frame shall not be used as an electrical ground.

Table adapted from National Electric Code (NEC) Handbook for standard automotive type cable, single conductor, not in a raceway or conduit.

An isolation switch (kill switch) is required on all vehicles. The switch shall have an interrupting current rating greater than the vehicle’s maximum current draw.
The isolation switch shall be installed in the main positive power cable between the battery and the motor controller. A circuit breaker may be used as the isolation switch.
Means shall be provided for both the driver and race officials to actuate the isolation switch. The driver shall be able to actuate the switch from the normal driving position without reaching outside the vehicle. Race officials shall be able to actuate the switch from outside the vehicle without reaching into the vehicle.
An actuator may be attached to the isolation switch to allow remote operation, provided the actuator is durable and reliable. Two switches may be installed when necessary to meet the driver and race official access requirements.
The switch or actuator accessible to race officials shall be identified by a solid red triangle with sides at least 4 inches long. The triangle shall contrast with the vehicle’s color or graphics.