This skid control experience in Yorkshire uses the largest skid pan in the UK to teach you how to control a car in slide and skid scenarios - which may be scary on the open road, but on this clean-water skidpan it really is quite a thrilling drive!
The skid control experience at this venue near York is rather unusual in that it uses a normal hatchback car, as opposed to a car mounted on a cradle system, so that it should react and feel more like driving a standard car. Add to the motoring mix 'slick' tyres and pools of water over the tarmac and the family hatchback turns into a slippy-slidey car that even the Stig would have trouble controlling.
Expert skid control instructors will teach you all about ski recovery, control and avoidance, as well as understanding ABS and throttle/steering balance. Once these skidding moves have been perfected, it's your chance to have a go at Motorway style aquaplaning situation - skidding at up to 40mph! More 'slippery' skid control courses on our main skid control section.
Sessions last 2 hours. You will usually in a group of 2 drivers. In total you will enjoy 35-40 minutes 1:1 tuition in the car. After a welcome and safety briefing your instructor will explain what causes a vehicle to skid and will explain the function of electronic driver aids fitted to modern road cars. You'll then head out onto the skid pan area for 4 different sessions; firstly your instructor will demonstrate the driving techniques required to control a skid. You'll then get to grips with controlling understeer and oversteer, master the use of ABS and finally an extreme skid session where you can really let the car slide. The skid cars are fitted with low grip tyres to allow loss of grip at safe speeds whilst maintaining the normal behaviour of a car. After the driving there's a Q+A session and driving certificates are presented.
Courses operate on Fridays from March to December, there are usually two dates per month. Sessions available include 8:30am to 10:30am, 10:10am to 12:10pm, 13:10pm to 15:10pm and 2:20pm to 4:20pm.
The driving takes place on the wide expanses of Elvington Airfield just outside York.
There is no minimum age however all drivers must be able to drive a car with a manual gearbox. The operators reserve the right to refuse anyone who is deemed to be unsafe. All drivers must sign a disclaimer at the venue.
Spectators are welcome to come and watch, there is a cafeteria on site providing hot food and drinks. Complementary tea and coffee are provided next to the track.