DongFeng Challenge Stage 9 review 15.01.2014: January, 14 - Dakar 2014 9th day The city of Calama near Chuquicamata, the world's largest open pit mine and

January, 14 -  Dakar 2014 9th day



The city of Calama near Chuquicamata, the world's largest open pit mine and largest copper production in Chile, was the starting point of the ninth stage of the Dakar Rally. The competition ended at the port of Iquique, where competitors were able to admire for the first time in the race the Pacific Ocean from almost 5000 meters to 0 in less than a day.

 
At the premises of one of the official dealers of the brand, graphics, radio and television, and a group of customers, the media gave the members of the Challenger DONGFENSG a pleasant welcome to the country.


Today, the land routed over 420 kilometers with very short link of 29 kilometers formed by a desertic path with dry swamps that tested the strength of the mechanical components. The fine powder, mixed with oil, turns into a grinding paste that wears out all seals and bearings.
 

It is worth mentioning that thanks to the long experience of the company in markets such as Africa, Latin America and parts of Asia where diesel fuel is of low quality (sometimes even contaminated), the truck of Chinese origin maintains its performance unchanged despite having refueled in precarious and remote stations where this factor is common.
 

Yesterday, at a high border crossing, the team rescued an all-terrain truck from Paraguay that fell over the cliff, fortunately without injury to their occupants, who had spent a cold night in this desolate place. The DONGFENG unit dragged the car that had its front wheels locked, several meters uphill to the road.


With regard to sports, no significant changes were recorded between the tips of the posts reserved for the truck category, which the Dutchman Gerard de Rooy (Iveco) continues to have commanding actions.

 
The tenth stage Iquique - Antofagasta, comprises 689 kilometers (631 of special stage and 58 of road section).
 




Facts and Figures
 
Moving large staff, media and equipment that amounts several tons requires a unique logistics for the Dakar Rally.


Normally, organizers need about 200 vehicles for the land and air daily movement. Among them, 60 cars and trucks, 12 helicopters, 12 airplanes, 60 trucks, 6 buses, and others.
 
 

Did you know…?


 DONGFENG, other than producing vehicles from a wide range of Western brands, manufactures, through commercial alliances, elements for prestigious auto parts manufacturers such as Dana Corporation (transmissions and spare parts) and Cummins (engines), both from the United States.




- DongFeng Challenge, also photos