The hydrogen-powered HySE-X1 kept its strong start to the 46th Dakar Rally (January 5th-19th, 2024) going on Monday, completing the third stage in Saudi Arabia without technical or navigation problems.
HySE (Hydrogen Small mobility & Engine technology) is entered in Mission 1000, the new modern Dakar class that forms part of the Dakar Future Programme to push manufacturers towards carbon-neutral powertrains. The HySE-X1 SSV is a joint project between Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Toyota and Yamaha, built on an Overdrive Racing chassis modified to carry three hydrogen tanks feeding a 998cc, four-stroke supercharged motorcycle engine.
Two long stages in a row
On Sunday, American driver Jamie Campbell and Argentine co-driver Bruno Jacomy completed the 105km Stage 2 between Al-Henakiya and Al-Duwadimi, earning the 10 points available to finishers in the class. The HySE-X1’s longest run before the rally had been 70km. On Monday they finished the 108km Stage 3 from Al-Duwadimi to Al-Salamiya, in the east of Riyadh Province, almost running out of fuel.
“Stage three wasn’t as hard in terms of navigation and we had some fun moments. Everybody is lost except for us so they were all following us. It makes it a little bit challenging, just because their alarm is going off in our ears! All in all, it was a good day. I think we finished at the minimum of the hydrogen. I’m glad we made it. We had no problems and no navigation issues. I’m improving on reading all the instruments. We had fun.”
Jamie Campbell, Driver
“Today was 108 (km) and we made it, another positive day for the team and for us. We managed the hydrogen all the stage. We are happy. Tomorrow’s plan is to do the same. Maybe we can attack a little bit more.”
Bruno Jacomy, Co-driver
Project leader Keita Nakanishi said the soft sand in the wadi section on Stage 3 pushed up hydrogen consumption, which was useful experience ahead of Stage 6. The next day’s 76km stage from Al-Salamiya would be shorter, so the team planned to gather data at higher speed.
“To make it happen, all team members analysed the course, made a driving plan and then the driver and co-driver executed it well. I thank the whole team for their hard work.”
Keita Nakanishi, Project Leader of HySE Dakar Project, on Stage 2