Mini has unveiled the John Cooper Works (JCW) Rally racer, which will defend its Dakar Rally title next year. This Rally edition has been developed in collaboration with the Mini motorsport partner – X-raid – and motorsport specialist. The 2017 Dakar Rally is scheduled to happen from January 2 to January 14 in Chile. The rally route will go through Argentina, Bolivia and Paraguay.
Based on the Countryman, the Mini JCW Rally houses BMW’s turbocharged 6-cylinder diesel engine under the skin. This powertrain churns out 345bhp of power with 800Nm of torque. The racer can attain a top speed of 183kmph. Although, this might not have to touch the top speed due to the terrain conditions.
The Mini John Cooper Works Rally sits on tubular steel frame chassis approved by Federation Of International Automobiles (FIA). This platform has been especially developed for racing purpose over tough and patchy terrains. The racer has a robust body-built made of Kevlar and carbonfibre. The overall width of the JCW racer is more than the Countryman. For providing better visibility, the company has lowered bonnet of the car. There is a vent on each side in the front of the doors.
The third spare wheel, which comes fitted inside the boot, is now shifted underneath the car. This also lowers the car’s centre of gravity. The JCW rally racer is also claimed to have multiple improvement in key areas. The aerodynamics and top speed, too, are better than the Countryman. The car is said to have gone through rigorous tests in an air tunnel. Features like 320mm steel disc brakes with air-and water-cooled rear callipers and a higher ground clearance enhance its braking capabilities.
Fuel efficiency is one more department where the JCW rally proves itself, thanks to its reduced drag. The rally racer, which is in its final testing phase, will make its debut at the 2017 Dakar Rally. The programme feedback could be executed on road cars, though the JCW Rally inspired Countryman edition will not go into production anytime soon, confirms the company.
