In an exciting development for off-road racing enthusiasts, Polaris Off Road has announced a strategic partnership with Sebastien Loeb Racing (SLR) for the upcoming 46th edition of the Dakar Rally, set to commence on January 5, 2024, in Saudi Arabia. This collaboration will see SLR drivers Xavier de Soultrait and Florent Vayssade compete in the SSV T4 category, driving the cutting-edge Polaris RZR Pro R Factory race machines.
The RZR Pro R Factory, based on the revolutionary RZR Pro R platform, was introduced earlier this year as Polaris Factory Racing’s flagship model. Its introduction marked a significant shift in the UTV industry, showcasing unparalleled power, durability, and control. The vehicle’s performance has been nothing short of spectacular, dominating the 2023 SCORE Pro UTV Open Class Championship with victories in all four SCORE events.
The Dakar Rally, known for its exceptionally challenging off-road conditions, will be a formidable test for the Polaris team. The RZR Pro R Factory vehicles, equipped with a high-strength, lightweight chassis compliant with FIA T4 Class standards, a race-tuned ProStar Fury 2.0L engine, and FOX® 3.0 Live Valve X2 Internal Bypass shocks, are designed to endure the grueling 5,000-mile event. A unique feature of these vehicles is their integrated storage for spare parts and tools, a crucial element since drivers are responsible for their own repairs during the race.
Alex Scheuerell, Technical Director of Polaris Factory Racing, expressed excitement about the collaboration with SLR, acknowledging Dakar’s challenging nature and the combined expertise of Polaris engineering and SLR. The partnership aims to leverage Polaris’ successful experience in the SCORE Baja series and adapt it to the distinctive demands of international rally racing.
Polaris engineers have meticulously modified the RZR Pro R Factory vehicles to meet Dakar’s stringent requirements, focusing on weight reduction, enhanced visibility, and serviceability. These vehicles are distinct from those used in the 2023 SCORE series, featuring full, heated glass windshields with wipers, washers, and blowers, as well as increased storage capacity for tools and spare parts.
Besides SLR, the Xtremplus team, featuring 2023 T4 vice-champions in the W2RC World Rally-Raid Championship, and the TH-Trucks Team will also participate in the Dakar Rally with race-modified RZR Pro Rs.
The rally will span from January 5 to January 19, 2024, starting in AlUla and concluding in Yanbu, Saudi Arabia. With the backing of Polaris, these teams are poised to make a significant impact in what is considered the world’s most demanding off-road race.
