Mahindra Scorpio sets Simpson Desert record

MAHINDRA has set an impressive record with its all-new Scorpio four-wheel drive flagship, the family-sized SUV crossing the 1100 dunes of Australia’s fourth-largest desert in just 13 hours, 21 minutes and five seconds.

The feat, which was set on March 16 this year, places the Mahindra Scorpio in the Guinness World Records book for the “Fastest crossing by a production vehicle”, a first for the title.

The vehicle was piloted by Total’s Gene Corbett and 4WD Industries’ Ben Robinson, who experienced ambient temperatures of up to 50ºC in addition to the Simpsons’ notoriously soft sands and sticky salt flats.

“Our iconic SUV has broken the Guinness World Records title by achieving the fastest crossing by a production vehicle of the Simpson Desert in Australia,” explained Mahindra head of international operations, Sachin Arolkar.

“This is an incredible feat and is a true testament to the Scorpio’s unbeatable combination of high-end engineering, performance capability, and durability.

“We are proud to have pushed the boundaries of what is possible with this vehicle, and we cannot wait for Australian enthusiasts to experience the thrill that Scorpio brings.”

The Simpson Desert – which is ordinarily governed by a 40km/h speed limit – is a tempting obsession for motoring enthusiasts from around the world. The crossing usually takes three to four days, offering stunning scenery and challenging trails, as well as an abundance of unique flora and fauna.

Mahindra’s record-breaking run began in Birdsville “at the crack of dawn” and concluded at Alkaseltzer Bore, a total of 385km covered in the more difficult east-west direction.

The driver and co-pilot for the journey said the performance and reliability exhibited by the Scorpio made the crossing one that shows the vehicle is right for tough Australian conditions.

“The Mahindra Scorpio has truly proven its unbeatable durability, high endurance, and unmatched capability by becoming the fastest production vehicle to cross the Simpson Desert, the toughest crossing in the world,” said Mr Corbett.

“I am proud to be a part of history by setting this record and have enjoyed every bit of it. The Scorpio boasts pure traction and offers an authentic SUV experience with its 4Xplor terrain management system, making it as capable as any 4WD on Australian soil.

“The Scorpio’s journey, conquering over 100 sand dunes in a gruelling 13-hour drive across the challenging Simpson Desert, truly capture the essence of global motoring. Witnessing this awe-inspiring feat first-hand has left me in awe of the Scorpio’s exceptional performance and durability.”