Acciona conquers Dakar with electrifying finish

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At the receiving end of a fair amount of criticism, Electric Vehicles seem to be fighting an uphill battle. With critics claiming FCVs are the future of the automotive industry, brands such as Faraday Future and Rimac are out to break barriers and challenge preconceived notions.

While numerous manufacturers position the argument of flat-out speed and zero-lag torque delivery as viable alternatives to conventional internal combustion engines, Acciona is the only brand to successfully participate in and complete the grueling Dakar Rally with an all-electric vehicle.

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The Spanish company, which focuses on renewable energy, took five years to develop its custom-built, battery-powered Dakar annihilator. After two failed attempts, it is Acciona’s third attempt that saw it conquer what is arguably one of the most grueling and dangerous rallies in the world.

Covering over 9,000 km, the Dakar Rally snaked through the challenging terrain of Argentina, Bolivia, and parts of Paraguay. Although 18,000 vehicles have participated since it began, Acciona’s all-electric vehicle is the only one to do so without emitting any carbon dioxide.

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The driver, Ariel Jaton, commented on the victory: “The odyssey is over. This year’s Dakar was very tough, with some very intense stages complicated by the weather, and the altitude in Bolivia. It was the most grueling race in South America, so we are thrilled to have reached the finish line, particularly in an electric car.” 

Equipped with a 340-horsepower electric motor, Acciona’s vehicle is constructed out of lightweight carbon fiber and is home to six lithium battery modules that can be charged individually to get full power in just 60 minutes. With a 100-watt solar panel on the roof, Acciona has proved that Electric Vehicles are not only fun, but capable of handling some arduous punishment.

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