R036
Desert Phantom Initiative
2020 Tesla Model Y
R032
The Dakar Zephyr transforms the iconic 1999 Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 into a rugged desert warrior, purpose-built for the relentless challenges of Dakar-style rally raids. Extensive widebody modifications include massive 190mm front and 230mm rear fender flares, designed to house oversized 350/85 R17 rally tires on beadlock wheels, while reinforced composite bumpers and underbody skid plates provide vital protection against harsh terrain. The chassis is stretched with a 160mm extended wheelbase to accommodate a rear transaxle sequential gearbox and robust armored underbody, enhancing both durability and drivetrain packaging for endurance racing. Under the hood, the RB26 engine is reinvented as a dry sump turbocharged unit with upgraded cooling fed by distinctive roof scoops and sidepod radiators nestled inside the expanded arches. The suspension is lifted to a 290mm ride height with rally-spec Öhlins dampers to maximize travel and absorption over uneven surfaces. Aerodynamically, the car eschews conventional wings for a functional 280mm roof spoiler integrated into a raised rear canopy, which also houses a spare tire and rally telemetry antennas, balancing airflow stability with practical rally utility.
Blueprint // R032
With an extended wheelbase and widened track supported by massive beadlock wheels and oversized rally tires, the Dakar Zephyr delivers stability and traction over loose sand, rocks, and uneven desert surfaces. The raised ride height and rally-spec Öhlins dampers offer substantial suspension travel, absorbing harsh impacts while maintaining composure at high speeds across challenging terrain.
190mm front and 230mm rear widebody flares with rounded and box flare profiles
Extended 160mm wheelbase via rear axle relocation and cabin shift
Reinforced composite front and rear bumpers with integrated skid plates
Raised composite rear canopy with roof-mounted spare tire and telemetry antennas
280mm tall lightweight roof spoiler integrated with rear canopy
Raised center hood scoop and twin forward ramp vents for enhanced cooling
300mm diffusive aero shelf on rear bumper housing recovery hooks
Aerodynamics are carefully balanced between cooling and stability, featuring a prominent roof spoiler integrated into the raised rear canopy to manage airflow without compromising the vehicle’s rally functionality. The hood’s domed scoop and forward ramp vents enhance engine breathing, while the rear bumper’s diffusive aero shelf aids in airflow detachment and houses essential recovery hardware. Overall, the aero components are minimal yet purposeful, favoring durability and thermal management over outright downforce.
17x8” Enkei Racing beadlock wheels
350/85 R17 rally-spec tires suitable for desert terrain
Raised ride height to 290mm with increased suspension travel
Mounted on robust 17x8” Enkei Racing beadlock wheels, the 350/85 R17 rally tires provide exceptional grip and durability on abrasive desert surfaces. The beadlock design ensures tire retention under low pressures, critical for maintaining traction and preventing punctures during long rally stages. The wheel and tire combination complements the widebody stance and elevated ride height, reinforcing the build’s off-road capability.
The stance emphasizes aggressive off-road readiness with a 290mm ride height and a track widened by nearly half a meter through extended arches and chassis modifications. This elevated posture allows for maximal suspension articulation and ground clearance, essential for navigating desert dunes and rocky trails. The wide, planted stance not only enhances stability but visually communicates the car’s transformation from track hero to rally raid contender.
RB26 inline-six transformed into a dry sump turbocharged engine
Enhanced cooling via twin roof intake scoops and sidepod ducted radiators
Sequential rear transaxle gearbox relocated rearward for improved weight distribution
Sustainably tuned for endurance with upgraded engine internals
The RB26 inline-six is re-engineered with a dry sump lubrication system to maintain oil pressure during extreme off-road angles and extended high-load operation. Turbocharging is optimized alongside upgraded cooling pathways fed by prominent roof scoops and side duct radiators, ensuring thermal stability in desert heat. Internal components are reinforced to meet the demands of long-distance rally stages while maintaining the engine’s characteristic high-revving nature.
A sequential gearbox mounted in a relocated rear transaxle configuration improves weight distribution and drivetrain efficiency. Reinforced driveline components and custom mounts accommodate the increased suspension travel and rugged terrain loads. The drivetrain setup is designed for rapid gear changes and durability, essential for the varied and punishing conditions of rally raid competition.
Custom widened wheel arches integrate sidepod radiators and LED rally lights
Chassis stretched rearward with reinforced subframe mounts for drivetrain and suspension
Composite body panels chosen for weight reduction and impact resistance
Underbody armor plates fabricated for maximum protection against debris and rocks
Wave Release
We grabbed some unlikely champions from different decades and forced them into the brutal world of rally raids where sand, snow, and gravel don’t just punish — they humiliate the unprepared. Our builds crush the notion…
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