XT+ and EMKA - across the desert and back again

Desert rallies are incredibly tough on both humans and machines. The extreme conditions—from sandstorms to enormous temperature fluctuations—push drivers and their vehicles to their limits. Wherever adventure and extreme challenges are paramount, EMKA loves to be involved. We support the Buggy Team Xtreme Plus led by Marco Piana, who participates in the legendary Dakar Rally, among other events.

Marco, what makes the desert so fascinating for racers in general and for you personally?

The fascination with desert rallies lies first in discovering the countries where the races take place. The changing terrains present a constant challenge, and the stages are long and demanding. It's a special feeling to travel to remote areas, often free from tourism, and experience incredible landscapes. Finishing a rally raid depends not only on speed but also on patience and experience to avoid problems and keep the vehicle running. In a rally raid, preparation, equipment, and the team are crucial.

How do you prepare physically and mentally for the extreme conditions of a desert rally?

The best preparation for the extreme conditions of a desert rally is physical and mental training at home. I engage in various endurance sports, such as mountain biking.

What technical modifications are made to the buggies to prepare them for the desert?

Our buggy, the Polaris Pro R, is essentially a standard machine that has been completely overhauled. The most important aspects are meeting FIA safety requirements, performance, and reliability. We pay special attention to the frame, suspension, tires, and engine, all of which are fully optimized and reinforced.

Why is EMKA such an excellent fit as a partner for you?

EMKA is an important partner, especially supporting us in the areas of performance and reliability. EMKA's high-quality products ensure a long lifespan for engines, transmissions, and differentials even at high temperatures, and they also provide a significant improvement in engine performance.

How does Team Xtreme Plus handle the unpredictable elements of a desert rally, particularly in terms of navigation and strategy?

The whole team from Xtreme Plus has been participating in rally raids for 24 years and has won several world championships. Good organization and collaboration with reliable partners like EMKA are essential. Our team of mechanics and engineers continuously works on improving our vehicles. During the rally, specialized mechanics work every night to maintain and prepare the vehicles. A fast support truck with spare parts and mechanics accompanies the drivers and intervenes if necessary. Many people work behind the scenes. Rally driving means teamwork!

Can you share a particularly memorable experience with us?

That’s a difficult question because, after 24 years and racing on all continents, there are countless memorable moments. The landscape and natural diversity of Africa, the motorsport passion in South America—especially the start in Buenos Aires in 2009, when nine million people lined the route—and the adventure of a race from St. Petersburg to Beijing are just a few of the many unforgettable experiences. Every rally offers a wealth of memorable experiences that demonstrate how fortunate one is to be able to live this sport.