Since the 1960s the snowmobiles of both premium brands have been raced against each other. In the 1980s came ATVs (quad bikes), and most recently Side by Side vehicles (SSV). Polaris are from Minnesota, USA, and across their northern border sits Canadian arch rival, BRP, makers of Ski-Doo Snowmobiles, Sea-Doo Watercraft, Can-Am ATVs and SSV.

Since the introduction of the Can-Am Commander and Polaris RZR, the sport of SSV racing has exploded in North America, with tens of thousands of SSVs now sold each year. In Australia Polaris RZR owners have been welcomed at events all over the country, from the Outback races such as Finke Desert Race and Cliffhanger, to KhanaCross and plenty of other events endorsed by CAMS or the Cross Country Drivers Association.

"One of the key things the ARC SSV Racing will deliver is a CAMS nationally recognised spec for both brands. By early next year a Polaris RZR owner or a Can-Am Commander owner will be able to enter a host of different CAMS events," said Peter Alexander, Polaris' Managing Director.

The collaboration between the two global Powersport is a positive step for the industry. From the perspective of the ARC working on the new class has the potential to attract new entrants into the sport. From an industry perspective it represents Australian powersport dealerships with a new and exciting product to offer their customers.

"With SSVs offering outstanding consumer value, we have every confidence that we will continue to see rapid growth in this market. Working with the ARC and CAMS is a great chance to build the recreational and sporting side of the SSV category, offering powersport enthusiasts a new entry point into the exciting world of off-road racing," said Kym Pardey, BRP Marketing Manager.

Developments of the CAMS spec will be updated in due course, followed by a release of details concerning 2012 ARC race dates, venues and course details.

For more Polaris information visit www.polarisindustries.com.au
For more Can-Am information visit www.brp.com.au

Neil Anderson
National Marketing Manger
Polaris Australia & NZ
neil.anderson@polarisind.com

Kym Pardey
Marketing Manager
BRP Australia
kym.pardey@brp.com