When Renault announced it will compete with a Dacia Duster prototype at the 2011 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, we knew from the official rendering that the race car would carry a big rear wing. We didn't expect it to be colossal however, as the first real-life photos can reveal.
These photos have been released by Jean Philippe Dayraut, the driver that will try to smash the record at Pikes Peak at his first ever participation. The images have been captured inside an aerodynamic tunnel and during the car's building process revealing an impressive aero kit with a giant two-piece rear wing and a matching front splitter.
Judging from the looks of the Duster, it seems to be a development of the Andros Trophy race car, upon which the engineers made the necessary modifications while keeping the mid-engine layout. The engine is prepared by Renault Sport Technologies and is expected to develop around 850 horsepower. Renault hasn't yet offered any specific details on the powerplant and performance of this one-off Dacia Duster, but should do it soon as the “Race to the Clouds” will take place on June 26. The first tests of the car are scheduled for June 5.
By Dan Mihalascu
