That Time A Kamaz Truck Did The Unimaginable
Weighing over nine and a half tons—about five times heavier than a typical family car—these trucks pack an incredible punch under the hood with a 13-litre, six-cylinder turbocharged engine generating more than 1,150 brake horsepower. This formidable powertrain enables Kamaz trucks not only to endure but to dominate some of the toughest terrains on the planet, evidenced by their astounding seventeen Dakar Rally victories.
Beyond the race, Kamaz pushes the limits of what these trucks can achieve through an array of spectacular feats. Offseason training sessions take place in extreme conditions, such as the snowy deserts of Russia, mimicking the sandy expanses they face in South America and Africa. Here, spikes are added to tires to optimize grip on ice and snow, allowing the trucks to perform high-speed jumps that subject them to forces as intense as 12 G.
Not confined solely to rally racing, Kamaz trucks have tackled unique challenges that test their versatility and resilience. Notably, they participated in a tandem drift attempt alongside a Mazda RX-8 drift champion, a stunt that puts their immense weight and sheer size to the test, showcasing that even such massive trucks can execute controlled drifts with skillful driving. The spectacle of this action demonstrates the drivers' precision and the trucks' robust engineering.
Adding to their legacy, Kamaz trucks have also engaged in thrilling duels against smaller, high-performance vehicles like World Rally Championship (WRC) cars. Despite the stark difference in size and agility, Kamaz trucks maintain remarkable control and speed over demanding courses, frequently keeping pace with nimble rally cars.
One of the most daunting trials these trucks have faced comes on the perilous roads atop Turkey's Second Mountain. This treacherous 13-kilometer stretch, with over thirty hairpin turns and steep cliffs, requires a perfect blend of power, endurance, and driver skill. Kamaz drivers master this challenge, navigating the narrow mountain paths with precision and confidence.
