Martin Macik and MM Technology have just completed a two-week test in the demanding terrain of the Saharan oasis Ksar Ghilane in Tunisia, where they focused on fine-tuning their race truck and analyzing the performance of key components for the upcoming season.

Every Detail Counts

The spotlight during this desert testing session was on a new brand of shock absorbers, which will be added to MM Technology’s truck component selection. Alongside this, the team worked closely with title partner Prometeon on the development of a new rally tyre capable of withstanding the extreme demands of long-distance rally.

Also on the schedule: optimization of the overall truck setup and testing of new lubricants, focusing on their performance in the high temperatures – a crucial factor for reliability in endurance rallies. Sand, sharp rocks, and soaring temperatures close to 40°C made the Tunisian desert the perfect proving ground for what will truly perform under Dakar conditions.

“It was an intense 14 days,” says Martin Macik Jr., MM Technology pilot. “We covered long stages every day, in changing conditions, looking for ways to refine the truck’s performance. Dakar is won and lost in the details – how the shock absorbers behave in rough terrain, how the truck behaves in soft sand, and how much punishment the tyres can take. That’s exactly why these days in Africa are so important.”

Controlled Development in Unforgiving Conditions

The team also placed a strong emphasis on telemetry. The collected data provides deep insight into performance parameters and is vital for real-time feedback and post-run adjustments – all with one goal in mind: maximum performance and bulletproof reliability.

“We’re testing components where durability matters just as much as performance,” explains Martin Macik Sr., head of MM Technology and lead developer. “Every change we make has to be tested under rally-like conditions. And the environment in Tunisia is as close to the Dakar reality as it gets.”

Two Trucks, Two Drivers, One Goal

In addition to Martin Macik, Dutch driver Kees Koolen also took part in the test, behind the wheel of his EVO 4 rally truck, developed and built by MM Technology. The simultaneous testing of both trucks allowed for comparison of setups, data, and driving styles – a crucial step for optimizing performance.

“We followed a clear testing plan day by day,” adds David Svanda, team mechanic. “Each evening, we reviewed both pilots’ feedback and adjusted the setups accordingly. In just two weeks, we made significant progress and gathered a lot of data that will help us fine-tune not just our truck called Benny, but also other MM Technology trucks ahead of the main event.”

Dakar Spirit, Live from the Desert

True to tradition, fans were part of the testing too. A number of Dakar enthusiasts joined the team right in the desert, turning the test camp into a full-on off-road adventure. From riding in the rally truck to driving quads, off-road vehicles, and even getting a taste of a Can-Am Maverick, they were fully immersed in the Dakar lifestyle — and went home with memories that will last a lifetime.