[Case Studies] A Poclain Solution At The 2024 Dakar
Jean Luc Ceccaldi, a French rally driver, took the gamble of using Poclain’s AddiDrive™ solution on his Dakar race Assistance truck. The system, which provides on-demand hydraulic four-wheel drive, has a proven track record on construction machines and is for the first time used in a race. Take a daring and experienced driver, cutting-edge technologies, sand, and rocks. You have all the ingredients for success on the ruthless Dakar Rally!
A 2024 Dakar finisher with a unique assistance truck
In 2024, Jean-Luc Ceccaldi embarks on the Dakar adventure for the fourth time. For this new edition, he is accompanied by his co-driver, Thomas Gaidella, and two mechanics driving his team’s assistance vehicle. Behind the wheel of his 4x2 prototype car, he finished the race in Yanbu (Saudi Arabia) on January 19th, in the 13th position in the premier two-wheel drive category.
Jean-Luc Ceccaldi developed a passion for mechanics and racing alongside his father. He was trained as a vehicle bodybuilder* with the Compagnons du Devoir, a highly-recognized French guild of craftsmen. At the head of the car and truck repair company that he created in 1994, he chose to pursue his dream of car racing in 2018. This passion eventually led him to the Dakar in 2021.
Poclain AddiDrive™ approved for the 2024 Dakar
For the 2024 edition of the Dakar, Jean-Luc Ceccaldi is accompanied by a unique assistance vehicle equipped with Poclain’s AddiDrive™ system.
The AddiDrive™ solution complies with the Dakar regulations which require 6x6 all-wheel drive assistance trucks. Many competitors dream of a mechanical front axle that can be disengaged to eliminate some of the disadvantages of permanent all-wheel drive. Jean-Luc Ceccaldi, thanks to his technical skills, made a bold bet and ventured with a Mercedes Benz 6x6 truck equipped with the HAD, Hydraulic Assist Drive option, the Mercedes name for AddiDrive™, installed by the manufacturer.
Performance and efficiency in extreme environments
Jean-Luc Ceccaldi’s assistance truck performed very well and maintained its traction on sand, the most demanding terrain, thanks to the Poclain motors on the front axle. Compared to trucks equipped with permanent all-wheel drive, the Poclain system enabled him to increase its payload, minimize his fuel consumption, and reduce his turning radius.
Skeptical at first, the other competitors measured the advantages of Poclain technology.
It is likely that several teams will be using the same type of assistance truck for the next edition!' Jean-Luc Ceccaldi adds.
The AddiDrive™ solution offers the optimal combination for construction professionals: the exact level of traction they need, a reduced carbon footprint, lower cost of ownership, and the use of standard trailers as the fifth-wheel height remains unchanged. This is why the AddiDrive™ option is fitted as standard by most manufacturers or their bodybuilders*.
A big thank you to Jean-Luc Ceccaldi, manager of Alsace Dépannage, for sharing his experience!
*Bodybuilders install custom bodies or equipment onto the chassis of a variety of heavy vehicles