The Safari Rally Kenya, starting March 20, necessitates significant modifications to WRC cars to effectively navigate the challenging terrain and weather. Key enhancements include snorkels for water crossings, taller suspensions for rugged roads, and adjustments for high altitude. The event features 39 drivers and is anticipated to attract millions of viewers, with major manufacturers like Toyota and Hyundai competing.
The Safari Rally Kenya, commencing on March 20, is unique within the World Rally Championship (WRC) calendar due to significant modifications made to the participating vehicles. These alterations are essential for navigating the challenging terrain of Kenya’s races, renowned as one of the most arduous on the global rally circuit. Drivers encounter extreme conditions that test both their skills and the machines’ endurance.
The event begins with a ceremonial flag-off by President William Ruto, after which the cars will proceed to the Super Special Stage in Kasarani before heading to Naivasha. Competitors will tackle a total of 384 competitive kilometers, marking this event as the longest rally distance of the year, which includes treacherous roads, deep water crossings, and high-speed segments.
One prominent feature added to the WRC cars is the snorkel, a raised air intake designed to allow the engine to operate efficiently during deep water crossings. This modification is vital for preventing water entry, which can cause engine failure, a common issue given the unpredictable weather conditions.
The suspension system has also been upgraded to provide a higher ride height, helping vehicles withstand the rough terrain characterized by relentless bumps, sharp ruts, and large rocks. It is critical to balance ground clearance with stability to enable drivers to maintain speed on fast sections, as successful navigation of these challenges is essential for completing the rally.
Moreover, the high-altitude location of the Safari Rally necessitates further adjustments to the cars. The thinner air at Naivasha leads to reduced engine power, prompting teams to modify engine mappings to enhance output. Each increment of power is pivotal as competitors maneuver across the stunning landscapes of Africa.
This year’s rally sees participation from 39 drivers hailing from various nations, with an expected live audience of 100,000 spectators in Naivasha and over 85 million viewers worldwide. The leading manufacturers competing include Toyota, Hyundai, and Ford.
Hyundai motorsport aims to end Toyota’s winning streak in the Safari Rally since the latter’s return to the WRC in 2021, featuring drivers such as Thierry Neuville, Ott Tänak, and Adrien Fourmaux in the i20 N Rally1 team. M-Sport Ford enters the fray with three Puma Rally1 cars, driven by Grégoire Munster, Josh McErlean, and Jourdan Serderidis. In WRC2, reigning champion Oliver Solberg leads the category in a Toyota GR Yaris Rally2, alongside newcomer Kajetan Kajetanowicz in a similar vehicle.
The Safari Rally Kenya is distinctively characterized by the extensive modifications made to WRC cars, which are essential for tackling the event’s demanding conditions. With added features such as snorkels and enhanced suspension, these vehicles are designed to withstand severe terrain and variable weather, ensuring both durability and performance. The 2023 edition promises intense competition, attracting numerous international drivers and significant global viewership, marking it as a pivotal event in the motorsport calendar.
Original Source: www.the-star.co.ke
