Dacia, known for its outdoor spirit, will participate in the Dakar Rally and World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC) from 2025 with the Sandrider prototype. Inspired by the 2022 Manifesto concept car, it’s designed for rally-raids with input from Renault Group and Prodrive. Sandrider focuses on essentials, emphasizing agility and weight in the Ultimate T1 category. Drivers and co-drivers actively contributed to its development through virtual reality sessions.
Sandrider’s exterior, styled by Dacia, prioritizes essentials with a focus on aerodynamics. The cabin features a modular dashboard for personalized ergonomics. The robust design includes a consolidated subframe, carbon bodywork, 4x4 transmission, and an innovative electrical system. Details like anti-bacterial seat fabrics, uncovered spare wheels, and quick-access tools enhance functionality. BF Goodrich tires provide optimal grip.
Dacia commits to decarbonization and sustainability, reducing Sandrider’s weight by 15kg and fuel consumption. The tubular chassis, carbon body panels, and a compact, lighter engine contribute to weight reduction. Emphasis on aerodynamics reduces drag by 10% and lift by 40%. Anti-infrared pigments integrated into the carbon body panels manage cabin temperature. Sandrider runs on Aramco’s synthetic fuel, combining renewable hydrogen with sequestered CO2.
Sandrider will debut at the Rallye du Maroc 2024 in October, participating in the 2025 Dakar and W2RC legs. The official team, Dacia Sandriders, includes experienced drivers: Sébastien Loeb with co-driver Fabian Lurquin, Cristina Gutierrez Herrero with co-driver Pablo Moreno Huete, and Nasser Al-Attiyah.
Key Characteristics:
FIA class: Ultimate T1
Chassis: Tubular
Body: Carbon fibre
Engine: V6, 3L, twin-turbo, direct injection
Power: 265 kW/360 bhp at 5,000 rpm
Torque: 539 Nm at 4,250 rpm
Transmission: 4X4, 6-speed sequential gearbox
Suspension: Double wishbone, 350mm travel
Wheels: 17-inch aluminum
Tyres: BF Goodrich, 37 inches
Dimensions: 4,140 x 2,290 x 1,810 mm
Wheelbase: 3,000 mm
Front/Rear Overhang: 590/550 mm
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Credit: Dacia Press UK (Renault UK Limited)