KYB and Toyota Autobody in Dakar
KYB Corporation is providing technical support and sponsorship of Team Land Cruiser by Toyota Auto Body, who will enter into the 2014 Dakar rally.
Customised specialist sports shock absorbers are fitted to the vehicle, which have a flexible damping force to be able to provide driving stability in a variety of road conditions. The specification used is extremely high, with the stability aimed at enduring 10,000 kilometres on bad roads. The shock absorbers have a strong seal to prevent the desert sand from entering inside in the harsh dusty environment.
The shock absorbers have a separate tank in order to increase the oil volume required in the extreme heat and for the long distances in the race. The dampers have a lightweight construction and have an adjustable damping force to provide the responsiveness the vehicle requires on the tough terrains it will encounter.
The 2014 Dakar rally will take place in South America, passing through Argentina, Chile and Bolivia. The rally began in Africa in 1977 and fifty nationalities compete each year. It is both a race and a test of navigational skills.
KYB engineers have been working closely with Team Landcruiser to test the shock absorbers and the car in extreme conditions, to ensure it can cope with the challenge ahead. To see the vehicle being tested in the desert, visit KYB’s youtube channel youtube.com/KYBEurope.