The Dakar Rally 2023 begins on 31st December 2022 and Iveco is official supplier to two new teams in the race.

Firstly, Janus van Kasteren Jr and Vick Versteijnen wil be driving for Eurol Team de Rooy.

In addition, the father/son duo of Martin and Mitchel van den Brink will represent Boss Machinery Team de Rooy.

All four of the vehicles in the Iveco Dakar Rally 2023 teams are Powerstar trucks.

Therefore, they all feature specially engineered 13-litre engines with up to 1,000hp.

Elsewhere, the trucks feature upgraded suspension and tyre inflation systems.

In total, 365 vehicles will be taking part on a new route that covers more than 8,500km of tough terrain. 

In fact, organisers say that the level of difficulty for the Dakar Rally 2023 has been ramped up again since the last event.

For example, the rally includes a four-day stretch of sand dunes. 

Meanwhile, teams will also have to complete a ‘Marathon’ stage, which is raced without assistance. 

Fabio Santiago, head of marketing and product management, Iveco, is looking forward to the test.

“We can’t wait to see our Iveco Powerstar trucks show what they are capable of,” he stated. 

“The route is set to be the toughest of the Saudi Arabian Dakar rallies. 

“However, our teams stand out for their powerful mix of experience and young talent.”

Continuing, Santiago said the drivers and teams were an ideal combination. 

“Teaming up with our proven, Powerstar trucks they are eager to take up the challenge!”

Dakar Rally 2023 is the latest edition of what is called the world’s ‘most extreme rally raid race’.

It runs in Saudi Arabia from 31st December 2022 to the 15th January 2023.

The finish line is in Damman, on the opposite side of the Arabian Peninsula.