Mitsubishi at the Dakar: 50/50 according to Alphand

“We presented a plan B to Mitsubishi managers during the recent Geneva Motor Show,” explains Luc Alphand to AUTOhebdo.fr. “Our objective is to enable a team with 27 years of experience, an exceptional track record and recognized know-how to survive. We know that Mitsubishi's decision is purely economic and in no way sporting. Currently, Japan is suffering enormously from the crisis. We have made proposals to reduce the investment required for the Dakar. »

The idea of ​​the Pont-de-Vaux team is to field two official Racing Lancers (for Stéphane Peterhansel and Luc Alphand still under contract) and two or even three cars for customers. “It’s 50/50,” admits Alphand. “Even though we suffered this year, the Lancer is born well. It?s a great car. »

And in the event of a positive outcome, nothing says that the diesel option will be retained. “The diesel engine we used this year was a very innovative idea. We experienced youthful problems, we do not hide it. To continue on this path, a substantial budget will be required to ensure its development. If this were not the case, I am not sure that going with a diesel engine would be a good solution. »