DEC 20 update:
Changes:

• Only 3 rigs will battle in the arena at the same time (actually was 4:)
  

• Power allocation has been increased. Each rig now has 1.5 kilowatts available (15 amps at 110V AC).
  
• Each team will have two (2) three-prong NEMA standard outlets available to them. (basically same as household outlet). ALL vehicle power (of the 15 amps available) that is not provided by the team must be drawn from these two outlets. Male plugs are the responsiblity of the teams.
  
• Closed circuit video from several camera positions will provide remote viewing for audience members concerned with safety.

What: Umbilical Controlled Combat: No points, no prisoners
When: 1/1/00 3PM PST
Where: At the Millenium party at Mike and Nick's house.
Why: Because it's cool to see small mechanical things shredded mercilessly.
Format: Umbilical control, radio optional
Venue: Fully enclosed indoor arena with hostile active obstacles
Scoring: Kill or be killed.

FORMAL RULESET

This is a special event with special rules and arena specifications.
Here's the original memo about the combat (includes early rules).
Most of your questions are answered here: Y2Kaos FAQ

A few words on:

SAFETY: Please remember, the audience will be several feet away. Although, unlike past events, there is no penalty for injuring the audience, please avoid it. Also, some vehicles may be using high-voltage as an offensive weapon- it is the operator's responsiblity to ensure that all connections and control switches are properly isolated from the vehicle. If your rig takes a direct plasma hit and you are holding a non-insulated control panel, you could get ELECTROCUTED!

STYLE: Style is EVERYTHING. Any nerd or gearhead can make a rig that destroys other rigs- the trick is to do it with style. Have a theme. Decorate. Integrate weapons and defenses into your theme.
Kill with style.
Die with style.

NO REMORSE
NO REPENT
NO MERCY
NO PRISONERS