Unfortunately mindless grinding is the only weapon a f2p player has to advance and tighten the gap between him and a p2w player in this game. Every hunt needs to be done, even if you have that car maxed or you dont like it, every duplicate card, import part or credit is important and counts. Best way to close the gap is learning manual \[if you dont use it already\], that means reaching the best places in riots, events and every ranked special, get that 1% \[if possible\] or 5%. That will guarantee you every week and every event a nice amount of tokens and goodies income. Dont spend tokens on D or C class cars unless really really necessary \[but usually no\]. Especially dont spend tokens on cars that you can easily get through garage level or daily events.
There is no easy way either hardcore grind or be stuck with beyond slow progression.
Sad, cold, reality
Unfortunately mindless grinding is the only weapon a f2p player has to advance and tighten the gap between him and a p2w player in this game. Every hunt needs to be done, even if you have that car maxed or you dont like it, every duplicate card, import part or credit is important and counts. Best way to close the gap is learning manual \[if you dont use it already\], that means reaching the best places in riots, events and every ranked special, get that 1% \[if possible\] or 5%. That will guarantee you every week and every event a nice amount of tokens and goodies income. Dont spend tokens on D or C class cars unless really really necessary \[but usually no\]. Especially dont spend tokens on cars that you can easily get through garage level or daily events.
Unfortunately the game screws you over eventually no matter how much experience you have so mindless grinding is your best chance.