Safari Rally: Teams make modifications to vehicles to suit Kenyan conditions

This week’s Safari Rally, which takes place March 20 - 23 is the only event on the WRC calendar where the cars look visibly different.

This is a testament to the brutal challenge that normally awaits teams in Kenya.

Crews will tackle some of the roughest roads of the season, battling extreme terrain and unpredictable weather.

This year, it could be wet during the Safari which would explain some of the modifications to vehicles, that will be explained below.

Further, as compared to the first two rallies of the year in Monte Carlo and Sweden, the Safari will be this year's first on murram and gravel.

Below are some of the modifications expected to be made by vehicle manufacturers for the Safari.

Snorkel: The most striking modification? The snorkel. This crucial addition helps engines breathe during deep water crossings, a necessity in a rally that's famous for obstacles.

Higher ground clearance: The cars also stand taller than usual, with raised suspension to handle relentless undulations and bone-crushing rocks. But Safari isn't just about survival; it's about speed.

Tough Suspension: High-speed compression is a key factor here — while the roads are punishing, they’re also lightning-fast in places. Having suspension that can soak up the hits while maintaining stability is the difference between success and disaster.

Engine: It’s not just the chassis getting special treatment. The engine maps are fine-tuned to compensate for the high-altitude conditions of Naivasha. With thinner air-sapping power, every tweak counts as crews rip across the breathtaking Rift Valley plains.

The Safari officially kicks off Friday and is the longest in the World Series, covering a total of 384 kilometres.

(Additional reporting by WRC)