päästölähtö

Päästölähtö is a Finnish term that translates to "emission start" or "emission-based start" in English. It is primarily used in the context of motorsport, specifically in rally racing. In a päästölähtö, instead of all competitors starting at set intervals, they are released from the start line based on their current position in the overall standings or by a predetermined handicap. The idea is to create a more dynamic and exciting race where drivers who are further behind in the standings might start ahead of those leading, allowing for more overtaking and strategic battles throughout the event. This format is different from a traditional rolling start or a standard timed start where drivers leave in numerical or alphabetical order. The specific rules and implementation of a päästölähtö can vary between different rally series and events. It is a method designed to potentially equalize competition and make the outcome less predictable, adding an element of strategy for both drivers and teams to manage their starting position relative to their competitors.