For next year’s
Dakar Rally, Toyota Gazoo Racing South Africa has announced that it will enter
three teams, all using the latest evolution of the race-proven Toyota
Hilux-based. Unlike a regular Hilux, the racing truck features a mid-engine
layout with the same V8 turbodiesel engine, transmission and running gear from
the 2018 car. However, following 2019’s regulations, the size of the air intake
restrictor has been set at 37 mm instead of 38 mm previously. Other revisions
include further refinement of the vehicle’s suspension.
“The FIA has been
working hard to try and balance the performance of the turbodiesel-powered cars
and the naturally aspirated V8s, such as ours. This is an ongoing process, and
while neither camp will probably ever be entirely happy with the rules, we have
no choice but to abide by their rules,” said Toyota Gazoo Racing South Africa
team principal, Glyn Hall.
“The smaller restrictor is sure to count
against us somewhat this year, but with the lower altitudes of Peru, we may
just have enough grunt to make it work regardless,” he adds.
The drivers that
will take part in the 41st edition of the iconic race include Giniel de
Villiers partner with co-driver Dirk von Zitzewitz; while Nasser Al Attiyah
will drive with Frenchman Mathieu Baumel. Lastly, Dutch rally and cross-country
driver, Bernhard ten Brinke will have Xavier Panseri as his co-driver.
