With advanced modifications tailored for desert racing, including a powerful V8 engine, reinforced suspension, and a unique “Flight Mode” for smoother landings, the Defender Dakar D7X-R is primed to take on the grueling conditions of the Dakar Rally.
The new Defender Dakar D7X-R will compete in the “Stock” category of the rally, where it will face off against competitors such as the Toyota Land Cruiser GR Sport and the Nissan Patrol. A vehicle engineered to handle over 5,000 kilometers of extreme terrain, it will be piloted by racing legend Stéphane Peterhansel, the 14-time Dakar winner, along with a team of seasoned drivers. With its combination of power, durability, and innovation, this is one of Land Rover’s boldest vehicles to date.
Built for the Harshest Conditions
The Defender Dakar D7X-R is equipped with several critical modifications to ensure peak performance in the brutal conditions of the Dakar Rally. According to Land Rover, the vehicle features a redesigned body kit that enhances cooling and allows for greater durability, reports Carscoops.
The bodywork includes wide fender extensions, a vented hood, dual snorkels, and a larger intake to help the vehicle breathe in the dusty, sandy environment of the desert. Additionally, the tailgate-mounted spare wheel has been removed to shed weight, and the car is finished in a desert-inspired “Geopalette” livery that mirrors the tones of sand and stone.
To tackle the rugged terrain, the D7X-R sits on 35-inch tires and offers increased ground clearance. Its suspension has been upgraded with Bilstein dampers, which provide the necessary performance for handling the roughest stages of the rally. Braking is also optimized with vented discs and high-performance six-piston front calipers, ensuring the Defender can stop effectively when needed, even in the toughest conditions.
Flight Mode: A New Era for Desert Racing
One of the most innovative features of the Defender Dakar D7X-R is its “Flight Mode,” designed specifically for desert racing. This system adjusts the vehicle’s torque delivery to allow for smoother landings after high-speed jumps.
In a rally like Dakar, where massive dunes are a frequent challenge, this feature can significantly reduce the impact on the vehicle and improve overall stability during landings, allowing for faster recovery after each jump.
This technology sets the D7X-R apart from standard off-road vehicles. The ability to fine-tune torque delivery not only enhances the vehicle’s durability but also contributes to better control over the car’s performance in the air. With its Flight Mode, the Defender Dakar D7X-R is expected to perform better during the high-speed jumps that are characteristic of the Dakar Rally stages.
A Racing-Ready Interior
Inside, the Defender Dakar D7X-R is stripped down to the essentials, emphasizing safety and functionality. The rear bench seats have been removed to make space for three full-size spare tires, a tool kit, and other necessary equipment for the rally stages.
The cabin is equipped with six-buckle racing seats, carbon fiber inserts, and a full roll cage for added safety. In addition, a new motorsport control unit manages the vehicle’s electronics, ensuring optimal performance throughout the race.
While the interior is focused on racing, the D7X-R also comes with advanced monitoring displays, which provide critical data to the driver in real time. This level of precision allows the team to adjust and adapt quickly to the changing conditions of the rally.
