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MINI has just unveiled the 2017 Dakar Rally car that is specially made for the challenge. Check out this new Countryman that they are using for this rally!
In the design phase of this MINI John Cooper Works Rally car, the engineers needed to make sure that it follows all requirements and regulations. Thus, it has special aerodynamics, thermal management, weight distribution, lower center of gravity, modified chassis frame design, new engine mapping.
A lot carbon fiber and Kevlar were used to save on weight. That allows for three spare wheels along and two hydraulic jacks positioned under the car and can be controlled from the inside of the cabin.
MINI Motorsport also partnered with X-raid to make a subframe that’s removable.
Each axle rides on four fully adjustable suspension units (two per wheel) providing the permissible 250mm wheel travel, thanks to Reiger Racing Suspension. Six-piston calipers all-round act on 320mm vented steel discs. The rear brake calipers are air and water-cooled to withstand the heat.
The Dakar Rally car is powered by a 3-liter straight six BMW engine making 340 HP at just 3,450 RPM along with 800 Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque at 1,850 RPM. It is matted to an AP Racing clutch combined with a six-speed SADEV sequential gearbox.
