It is history in the making, with Mahindra XUV500 becoming the first Diesel vehicle ever to secure a podium finish at the Desert Storm 2012. The cheetah inspired XUV500 displayed phenomenal performance finishing third at the extreme rally. Moreover, the XUV500 also set three special stages ablaze by clocking the fastest time in each.
The victory is a statement that Mahindra is making displaying its victory and dominance in market. Going against all odds, the XUV500 became the first diesel vehicle ever to display such a remarkable performance. Behind the wheels of the XUV500 was a triple National Champion and APRC winning driver, Gaurav Gill. Joining him was Lohitt Urs, who has won the INRC.
Proving to be the best comeback in the history of Indian Motorsports, the XUV500 turned out 3rd on day 5, starting from 35th position on day one, with Lohitt Urs behind the wheels. He gave the best performance, clocking 98 kmph average speed on a 395 km off-road track.
Commenting on the incredible success of the XUV500 on its rallying debut, Mr. Vivek Nayer, Sr. Vice-President, Marketing, Automotive Division, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. said, “This unprecedented podium finish by the Mahindra XUV500 is a testimony to the 20 Auto awards it has won since its launch! Mahindra was entering the Extreme category for the first time in many years and the XUV500 conquered the Desert with dogged determination and confidence to create Indian motor sports history. Keeping the spirit of Adventure going, the XUV500 is all set to make and break many more records in times to come.”
The 10th season of Maruti Suzuki Desert Storm Rally witnessed the largest participation ever in this six-day event chasing over 3,500 km. This year’s edition had over 280 participants, with close to 50 entries in the extreme category.
The kick-off was in New Delhi with a nighttime stage following a round trip through Rajasthan and Gujarat. Along the race, the drivers faced the fearsome Thar Dessert and the flat lands of Rann of Kutch, before finally crossing the checkered flag in Ahmedabad.
