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As the countdown to the 2024 Asia Cross Country Rally (AXCR) begins, Mitsubishi Motors is gearing up to reclaim its place at the top with a fleet of four reengineered Triton pickup trucks. This year's rally, scheduled for August 11-17, will take competitors through the rugged terrains of southern and central Thailand, presenting an arduous challenge for even the most seasoned drivers. Mitsubishi's Team Ralliart, with its technical enhancements and strategic improvements, is determined to seize the AXCR title, a feat they last achieved two years ago. The team has rigorously tested the Triton, pushing it through an 800-kilometer endurance trial on Thailand's off-road tracks in June. The results were promising—showcasing enhanced driving dynamics, improved maneuverability, and superior road handling. However, the real game-changer lies in the significantly upgraded rear suspension, a feature that draws inspiration from the legendary Dakar-winning Pajero. Just days before the rally kicks off, the team conducted a final shakedown to fine-tune the Triton, ensuring that every component is in peak condition for the upcoming competition. Hiroshi Masuoka, the team's director, expressed confidence in the Triton's ability to perform at full throttle, even on the rally's most demanding high-speed stages. "With the Triton's upgraded driving performance, broader tread size, and vastly improved rear suspension, we’ve built a rally car that can dominate on any terrain. Our goal is not just to win but to embody Mitsubishi's rich motorsport heritage in every mile we cover," Masuoka stated. A Closer Look at the 2024 AXCR This year’s AXCR promises to be as grueling as ever, with 67 vehicles competing across various categories. The rally will commence with a ceremonial start at Surat Thani’s iconic clock tower on August 11. Over the following six days, participants will tackle diverse terrains—from the rocky, rut-laden paths of Leg 2 to the high-speed flat dirt tracks of Leg 3, and the mountainous challenges of Leg 4 in Kanchanaburi. The rally will culminate at the Skywalk Kanchanaburi, a stunning glass-sided bridge that has become a must-visit attraction since its opening in 2022. Mitsubishi Ralliart’s Support Fleet: More Than Just Backup Backing up the Triton’s rally ambitions is a robust support fleet consisting of four Delica D:5s, an Outlander PHEV, and a Delica Mini. These vehicles aren't just there for show; they are integral to the team’s strategy. Each vehicle is equipped with high-performance enhancements, including Work’s CRAG T-GRABICII alloy wheels and Yokohama Rubber’s GEOLANDER off-road tires, enabling them to handle the varied and often treacherous rally conditions. Among the support fleet, the Delica D:5 stands out with its reinforced body structure, lifted suspension, and aluminium engine guard—features that make it ideal for navigating the rally’s rougher sections. Meanwhile, the Outlander PHEV, Mitsubishi’s flagship electrified SUV, brings a blend of power, practicality, and cutting-edge technology, ensuring the team stays ahead in both performance and efficiency. The Triton’s Road to South Africa While Mitsubishi Motors has its eyes set on AXCR glory, the Triton’s journey doesn't end in Thailand. The all-new Triton, refined through the rigors of rallying, is set to make its South African debut later this year. Jeffrey Allison, General Manager of Marketing at Mitsubishi Motors South Africa, emphasized the importance of motorsport in shaping consumer-ready vehicles. "Our engineers have infused the rally-proven Triton with the performance and durability that our adventure-minded customers crave. This vehicle isn’t just a product of engineering; it’s a testament to Mitsubishi’s commitment to delivering an authentic driving experience, born from the challenges of the world’s toughest rallies," said Allison. As the Triton prepares to conquer the AXCR and soon after, the South African market, Mitsubishi Motors continues to blend its rich motorsport heritage with innovation, ensuring that every drive, whether on the rally stage or the open road, is nothing short of exhilarating.