We all know that the Dakar Rally is one of the toughest motorsport events to take place on an annual basis. With the Duster finishing 21st at last year’s Dakar, Renault South Africa has taken it upon themselves to provide the 2016 edition with the necessary upgrades.
Built by Thompson Racing, the new Duster receives a revised front and rear suspension setup with enhancements to the tubular spaceframe chassis. Together with the new carbon-fibre body panels, the new Duster is now 100 kg lighter.
The Duster will be powered by an Infiniti sourced 235 kW, 5,0-litre V8 petrol engine with a longer air intake system and revised electronic engine management. The power will be delivered to the all-wheel-drive system via a six-speed sequential transmission.
To aid the Renault Sport Argentina-based drivers throughout the grueling race, an air conditioning unit has also been installed.
Find out how the Duster does when Dakar concludes next year on the 16th of January. The first stage will commence on the 3rd of January.
