Peugeot 2008 DKR to challenge Dakar with help from Red Bull [w/video]

Filed under: Motorsports, Performance, Videos, Crossover, Peugeot, Racing



The Mini All4 Racing team has dominated the Dakar Rally in recent years, with wins in 2012, 2013 and 2014. In this year's event, its drivers stood atop all three steps on the podium, and it had seven cars in the top ten. However, Mini's superiority is getting a big challenge in 2015 because Peugeot is returning to the rally with Red Bull as its sponsor. The team's weapon of choice is the new Peugeot 2008 DKR piloted by Dakar veterans Carlos Sainz and Cyril Despres.

Peugeot is not a neophyte to the event, having scored wins from '87 to '90, and it's taking its return seriously. While the DKR is called a 2008, it bares only a passing resemblance to the road car. The team handed off a list of demands to the engineering department, specifying things like the dimensions, cabin space and approach angles. What the designers came up with is one mean-looking machine. It has super-wide fenders covering up 37-inch Michelin tires, practically no overhangs, a lifted suspension and two doors. The creators admit the look only draws inspiration from the standard car.

The powertrain remains the DKR's biggest secret at the moment. Thought the team has revealed that it's using two-wheel drive because it allows them to run more suspension travel and bigger tires. Scroll down to watch the team's reveal video for the car and read more details about it.Continue reading Peugeot 2008 DKR to challenge Dakar with help from Red Bull [w/video]

Peugeot 2008 DKR to challenge Dakar with help from Red Bull [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Apr 2014 19:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.



Permalink | Email this | Comments