Mahindra has created a path-breaking record at the Rally dos Sertoes in Brazil, which is considered to be one of the world’s toughest rallies. The Mahindra Scorpio Pick Up, piloted by Brazilian motoring enthusiast Ricardo Augusto de Souza Campos, delivered an exceptional performance, securing third place in the T2 category for cars and pick ups. The T2 category is for cars that have not undergone a great deal of modification. The vehicle sported a trendy red and white look, echoing the Mahindra corporate colours.
The Scorpio Pick Up was kept almost stock aside from the required safety and structural modifications demanded by the regulations. Some of the modifications made include an FIA safety roll-cage fitted along with special rally seats, snorkel air intake, sump and transmission guard, plastic windshield, electrical safety gear along with a host of navigation and rally aids, as well as radio and GPS systems. The chassis was strengthened at key points, as mandated. The only addition which differed from standard specifications was the fitment of rally shock absorbers which the T2 regulators permitted. A larger 220-litre fuel tank was mounted in the load bed.
Only 33 out of the 66 cars and pick-ups completed the grueling event. The Rally dos Sertoes is one of the toughest events in the world, second only to the mighty Dakar rally. The rally typically follows a treacherous route across Brazilian jungles and swampy terrain and this year’s edition was no different. Can we expect Mahindra to officially enter the 2010 Dakar rally. If that happens, it will be the first indigenously Indian built vehicle to participate in a world rally championship.