New Support Truck To Make Its Debut in Dakar Rally 2014!
Sep 9, 2013
For the first time in 10 years, HINO TEAM SUGAWARA will be introducing a completely new heavy-duty support truck. Based on the "HINO700 Series ZS" that is known for its excellent terrain crossing performance, the new support truck has been fitted with a variety of functions that are necessary for racing support and given upgrades to its overall support capabilities in preparation for its debut in the Dakar Rally 2014.
Because the Dakar Rally requires teams to drive over a total distance of 10,000km and set up camp each night for a period of about 2 weeks, the rally poses a challenge not only to the performance of racing vehicles and the skills of its crew, but also to the teams' support capabilities. In addition to being responsible for transporting spare parts and camping equipment, the support truck is also central in carrying out maintenance service tasks and indeed to the wellbeing of team members at the camp sites. As such, the truck plays an absolutely critical role in the race.
In Dakar Rally 2004, HINO TEAM SUGAWARA introduced a heavy-duty support truck that was based on the "Hino Profia." And although the truck has continued to support the team's finishing streak and numerous class championships for a period of 10 years, it will be retired in view of the increasingly sophisticated nature of the race in recent years and the need to improve the team's transport efficiency and working environment.
To this end, the team will be introducing a completely new heavy-duty support truck to enhance its support capabilities. The new support truck will be based on the HINO700 Series ZS, which is receiving rave reviews in dump truck and mining markets overseas as it performs well over rough terrain and has a very robust frame. The refitting plan for its rear body was based on HINO TEAM SUGAWARA's extensive know-how, the frame and exterior were built by Hino Engineering Annex, Ltd., and the interior and special mechanisms were made by Tsuboi Special Body, Co. Ltd., resulting in a truck that is optimally suited for rally support.
Moving forward, the truck will undergo vehicle inspections in Mongolia in October and given final tune-ups at Japan Racing Management's garage in France, after which it is scheduled to make its debut in January at the Dakar Rally 2014. With significant upgrades made to its heavy-duty support truck, the team aims to achieve higher rankings in the upcoming race.
Characteristics of the new heavy-duty support truck "HINO700 Series ZS"
Specifications
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| Vehicle name | HINO700 Series ZS |
|---|---|
| Engine | E13C (Maximum output: 302kW {410PS} Maximum torque: 1,618N-m {165kgf-m}) |
| Transmission | ZF 16-speed |
| Suspension type | Multi-type leaf springs |
| Drive type | 6X4 |
| Length | 8,945mm |
| Width | 2,490mm |
| Height | 3,791mm |
| Weight (Cab and chassis) | approx. 9.6ton |
| Weight (with rear body) | approx. 13ton (including equipment) |
| Load capacity | approx. 14ton |
| Gross weight | approx. 27ton |
| Riding capacity | 3 |
| Fuel tank capacity | 800L |
| Tire | Michelin XS 14.00R20 *Modifications were made to the axles to take 20" wheels |
The following are descriptions of some of the new equipment added to the truck and modifications made.
Special axle, tires, and wheels
Modifications were made to the axles to take 20" wheels and the same tires as the racing trucks on all axles. The rear tires were modified to a single tire configuration. These tires can be used as backup tires in the event that all spare tires are used up.
Water tank
A new 350-liter water tank was fabricated and fitted to the truck. This water will be used for washing the team's vehicles and laundry as the camp sites do not have running water.
Stairs and ladders
The new truck is fitted with a set of retractable stairs and ladder. The wide steps enable team members to climb and descend smoothly.
Special storage box for the windshield
A special box was fabricated and fitted to the truck to help avoid damage to the windshield during transport. The box can be slid out on its platform for loading and unloading.
Special storage box for the windshield
A special box was fabricated and fitted to the truck to help avoid damage to the windshield during transport. The box can be slid out on its platform for loading and unloading.
Motorized crane
The truck is now mounted with sliding and insertion type motorized cranes (load bearing capacity: 300kg).These cranes will be used to lift heavy objects such as tires and transmission.
Wrapping design
The Hino Motors Design Div. has created a design based on the kabuki theme - similar to that of the racing trucks' - to create a fully wrapped look.
Generator with welder and air compressor
The truck is mounted with a generator and air compressor equipped with a welder that will serve as the core of a variety of maintenance tasks including making repairs to any damage sustained by the trucks.
