Dacia's New Rally-Raid Prototype

Dacia, with its innovative prototype Sandrider, ventures into the challenging world of Dakar and the World Rally-Raid Championship starting from 2025. This vehicle, a tangible manifestation of Dacia's philosophy, is based on the concept car Manifesto, presented in 2022, and represents a revolutionary approach to the design and functionality of rally-raid vehicles.

The Sandrider is not just a racing vehicle; it's a rolling laboratory that merges the sporting experience of Renault Group with the technical innovation of Prodrive, a British company specializing in motorsport. This prototype is designed to excel in the Ultimate T1+ category, prioritizing agility and lightness without sacrificing performance.
What sets Sandrider apart is its uncomplicated design, focused on the essence of motorsport. By removing decorative elements and optimizing aerodynamics, Dacia has achieved a balance between functionality and aesthetics. Pilot and co-pilot visibility has been a priority, using aviation techniques to minimize glare and improve focus on the road.

Inside the cockpit, Sandrider offers a customizable environment tailored to the needs of the pilots. The modular dashboard design allows each team to adjust ergonomics and element placement to their preferences, a crucial consideration in the grueling conditions of a rally-raid.

Strength is another cornerstone of Sandrider's design, vital to withstand the demanding conditions of Dakar and other rally-raids. With a reinforced chassis, carbon fiber body, adapted 4x4 suspension and transmission, Dacia has raised the bar in terms of durability and reliability. Furthermore, innovations such as Sabelt seats with antibacterial fabrics and moisture regulators, as well as a magnetic zone on the body to prevent tool loss in the heat of competition, reflect meticulous attention to detail.
In line with their commitment to sustainability, Dacia has integrated a synthetic fuel-powered engine supplied by Aramco into Sandrider. This advancement represents a significant step towards more environmentally-friendly competition, aligning with Dakar and rally-raid sustainability initiatives.

Sandrider will begin its testing phase in different countries and will make its competitive debut at the Rallye du Maroc 2024, a precursor to its participation in the Dakar and World Rally-Raid Championship in 2025. Behind the wheel of this revolutionary vehicle will be drivers Sébastien Loeb, Cristina Gutierrez Herrero, and Nasser Al-Attiyah, combining experience, talent, and passion in this exciting new chapter for Dacia in the world of motorsport.