Dakar debutant rides again

AN updated version of the Peugeot 2008 DKR 16 — the two-wheel-drive beast that made its

John Harris

John Harris

info@virtualcom.it

12:00AM, Monday 02 November 2015

AN updated version of the Peugeot 2008 DKR 16 — the two-wheel-drive beast that made its debut in the epic Dakar Rally last January — has been revealed.

This latest evolution of the car, which is scheduled to make its competitive debut later in the year before heading to South America, is longer, wider, lower and more powerful than its predecessor: presenting a more aggressive stance, with a raft of improvements under the skin as well.

The front and rear overhangs have been reduced, enhancing the car’s go-anywhere ability. This is vital when it comes to tackling the varied obstacles, such as sand dunes, river beds and huge rocks, that characterise the Dakar, making it one of the last true sporting adventures left on earth.

The Peugeot 2008 DKR 16 also benefits from improved aerodynamics: the bonnet and roof-mounted air-intake have been heavily revised in order to provide more balanced downforce between front and rear. The new air scoop also ensures better airflow.

Other evolutions lie under its carbon skin. The suspension has been redesigned to deal more effectively with the different and rough terrains. It also benefits from better weight distribution, as well as magnesium one-piece wheels for the first time, matched to lighter tyres from Michelin.



These replace the aluminium two-piece wheels from last year, with the combination resulting in a significant weight saving.

The new car has been a continual work in progress, with development work starting as soon as the original car crossed the finish ramp in Buenos Aires just over seven months ago, at the conclusion of this year’s Dakar.



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