Nissan Patrol Powers Top Finishers at Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge in 2014

Nissan Patrol has once again proved to be the Hero of All Terrains in Life by powering top competitors to success in the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge POWERED by Nissan 2014. Making a dramatic debut in the demanding desert rally, the latest generation Nissan Patrol won on its class at its first outing with Emil Kneisser, sponsored by Nissan, behind the wheel and claiming victory in the ‘T2’ category. Yahya Bel Helei, also sponsored by Nissan and competing in the ‘T1’ category was the highest finisher of any GCC competitor – in fourth place overall.

Nissan Patrol also accounted for the top five finishers in the ‘T2’ category and recorded better times than some ‘T1’ participants.

Commenting on the results Samir Cherfan, Managing Director of Nissan Middle East, said: “The Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge POWERED by Nissan is an internationally-recognized event attracting the best desert rally competitors from around the world. Against this toughest of competition, the latest generation Nissan Patrol was able to claim a class win on its first outing – a spectacular achievement. We congratulate all winners, especially our newest talent to join us this year, Emil Kneisser who has demonstrated outstanding skill, strength and endurance.”

Yahya Bel Helei, said: “This year’s race was as competitive as ever and I’m proud to have achieved a third in class finish against some of the best racers from across the world. My Nissan Patrol Pickup performed faultlessly and I look forward to next year’s event.”

Emil Kneisser, said: “To come first in class in a debut race for a car is an achievement – I’m delighted with the result. The latest generation Nissan Patrol has proved it’s got everything it takes to carry on the winning heritage its predecessors have earned over many years.”

Nissan has been the long-term supporter of the rally with its flagship Patrol SUV being the official race car for the eleventh year. For 2014, the partnership was strengthened with the rebranding to Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge POWERED by Nissan. The fourth and toughest stage of the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge is named after Nissan Patrol.

Nissan Patrol, the brand’s flagship SUV with a rich heritage and passionate following in the Middle East, has been a favourite choice of Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge competitors for many years, but this year the latest generation made its debut. Competing in the ‘T2’ category, for production vehicles allowing only slight modifications to suspension, brakes, cooling and safety features, it looks set to continue the winning heritage of its predecessors.