PEUGEOT UNVEIL 2018 DAKAR CHALLENGER

Peugeot’s 2018 Dakar Challenger the Peugeot 3008DKR Maxi – Photo: Supplied

Peugeot Sport have unveiled their new Peugeot 3008DKR Maxi which they will use to chase their third successive Dakar Rally title in 2018.

The new car which is 20cm wider than its predecessor, features new wishbones, driveshafts, and both front and rear track rod ends which were designed to improve the stability and dynamics to increased the cars performance.

Nine-time world rally champion Sebastien Loeb, who finished second in Dakar earlier the year, will drive the Peugeot 3008DKR Maxi in it’s competition debut when he contests the Silk Way Rally between Russia and China in July.

“I think the car is much more stable now. In the very narrow and technical parts that does mean it’s more cumbersome of course, but in terms of stability and driving it’s definitely a step forward.” said Loeb after testing the new car.

“The car has less of a tendency to roll on its suspension now, so that gives you more confidence to attack and get it sideways. It can tackle anything, especially dunes.”

Loeb will be joined by teammates Stephane Peterhansel and Cyril Despres who will complete the Silk Way Rally in the current 2017 Dakar winning Peugeot 3008DKR.

Carlos Sainz testing the new Peugeot 3008DKR Maxi – Photo: Supplied

Peugeot have also drawn upon the experience of Carlos Sainz who also test the new car.

“After a few years, improving the package always becomes harder but the work that Peugeot Sport’s engineers do is great and I obviously try to help as much as possible.”

Sainz won’t make an appearance at the Silk Way Rally, but will join the team again for Dakar in 2018.

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