Journalist Sue Mead racer Darren Skilton become first U S team to win a class in Dakar Rally

The Ford F-150 SVT Raptor is still proving that it can do whatever deed needs done, whenever it needs doing. Sue Mead and Darren Skilton managed to pilot a largely stock version of the desert-raiding pickup through all 12 stages of this year’s Dakar rally. The team survived 16 days of some of the most brutal terrain on the South American continent and covered over 11,800 miles in the process. Their effort was enough to net the Raptor a 40th place finish over all and a first place finish in the OP class.

In fact, from what we hear, Mead and Skilton were the only contestants to even finish in the OP class, even with big names like Robbie Gordon gunning for the win.

That marks the first time that an American crew has ever managed to take a class win in the history of the Dakar Rally. The F-150 SVT Raptor that Mead and Skilton campaigned boasted the same 5.4-liter V8 that it rolled off the production line with, though a larger cooling system was fitted to handle the harsh temperatures of the course. Likewise, the pickup was equipped with a host of other race-capable bits including a new locker system for the differentials, more robust shocks, springs and tires.

Overall, Volkswagen took the top three spots in the 2011 Dakar Rally. BMW filled out the remaining spots in the top five with its entries. Hit the jump for the press release.

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Luxury Lexus LS600h will become the Official Car of Monacos Royal Wedding

MONACO - current media attention tends to wait for the implementation of the couples wedding in UK, namely Prince William and Kate Middleton, on 29 April. Meanwhile, interesting news also emerged from Monaco, a small country a protectorate of the French. What is interesting is this time not on the bridal couple, but a weddomg car that will be used.

Monaco Royal Family members who will get married is Prince Albert II, on 2 July. The prince will marry Miss Charlene Wittstock. The car taken to carry the bride is the Lexus LS600h.

Reported, when it will be used later, this luxury hybrid sedan is equipped with a light or blink rotator (flash), the symbol of the kingdom, and special plates "MC01". It is said that the luxury car is considered appropriate as the bridal couple Kingdom of Monaco car because this car will be surrounded by electric cars at the parade later .

The decision to opt a hybrid Lexus is once again to dedicate Prince Albert IIs commitment to environmental awareness. He erected The Prince Albert IIs Monaco Foundation in 2006. The institute is helping 150 projects to monitor changes in the evolution and provide protection to the environment. The special organization also gives attention to the specific species of animals and plants. It added that Prince Albert II also donates aid water management in developing countries.

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