Technology
The Art of Drifting Explained
Explore the high-skill driving technique of drifting. Learn how drivers intentionally oversteer and why this exciting motorsport is gaining popularity.
What is it?
Drifting is a driving technique where the driver intentionally oversteers, causing the rear wheels to lose traction while maintaining control through a corner. Originating in Japan, it has evolved into a judged motorsport. Unlike typical racing, drifting is scored on factors like line, angle, speed, and showmanship, not just lap times. This thrilling display of car control is almost exclusively performed in modified rear-wheel-drive vehicles, which are purpose-built to sustain controlled slides.
Why is it trending?
Drifting's surge in popularity is driven by its high visual impact. The tire smoke, engine noise, and precise maneuvers create compelling content perfect for social media. Pop culture, especially films like The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift and video games, introduced the sport to a massive global audience. The professionalization through series like Formula Drift has further cemented its status as a legitimate and exciting motorsport, attracting new fans and major sponsors.
How does it affect people?
For enthusiasts, drifting is a passionate hobby and a thrilling spectator sport, fostering a global community centered on car tuning and driving skill. On the downside, its rebellious image can inspire illegal street drifting, which poses serious safety risks to the public and participants. This dangerous activity leads to police intervention and can negatively impact the public's perception of the legitimate, organized sport, creating a complex relationship between its cultural appeal and real-world consequences.