SS1-Taklimakan Rally 2018

[Beijing] The much-anticipated 2018 Taklimakan Rally opened with the first special stage (SS1) on June 3rd. Competitors set off from Urumqi on a fast course to Turpan before taking on the 214.4-km special stage from Turpan to Shanshan.

Between Urumqi's Nanshan Pasture and Turpan, temperatures vary from 10 to 39 °C, with altitudes ranging from 1,050 to -157 m. These conditions are detrimental to automobile performances, but FUCHS engine oils boast excellent cold-start function, high dispersibility and purity, and outstanding lubricating and anti-wear properties. Coupled with Navara's superiority, they saw Team Navara through the first stage.

The annual rally is a test for the drivers and their vehicles; it also assesses team rapport and coordination. Harsh environments, a labyrinth of tracks and extreme temperatures put teams to the test—every member sacrifices sleep during the rally to play one's part.

The team from FUCHS Lubricants joined Team Navara on June 1 in Xinjiang, helping with the morning's technical scrutineering and the afternoon's engine testing. They also worked with Team Navara's support crew to cover all the bases to ensure nothing would crop up over 13 days of stressful competition.

On June 2nd, the short timed prologue kicked off the 2018 Taklimakan Rally. No. 251, 252 and 253 of Zhengzhou Nissan’s Team Navara lined up in sequence on the launch track. Fronting the Navara, the signature red-and-white design captured the crowd’s attention; the FUCHS logo on the vehicle bodies also stood out.

In spite of being newcomers to the off-road racing, Team Navara charged down the track fearlessly like seasoned racers during the SS1 on June 3rd.

The second stage will unfold on June 4th. After an eventful first day, Zhengzhou Nissan’s Team Navara is brimming with excitement. See you at the next stop!