DRIVING ON SAND

Land Rover ambassador Ed Stafford puts the Range Rover SVAutobiography to the test in the sand with Land Rover expert instructor Will McKean.

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THE BASICS

To travel across sand, you need a low gear and steady momentum. Consider lowering your tyre pressure (15psi minimum) to create a greater surface area.

Engage Sand on Terrain Response. If your wheels spin, ease off the throttle and slow the tyres to regain traction.

If you need to park in sand, do so on a downward slope. This will help you when you pull away.

BEACH DRIVING

Between the high tide mark and four metres from the sea, sand is usually firm enough to take a 4x4.' Always be aware of incoming tides when you’re driving on the beach.

When driving on damp sand, your wheels may sink into the surface, so use the Mud and Ruts setting. Keep off wet sand as it can contain dangerous areas of 'floating' sand or quicksand.

DESERT DRIVING

On stretches of firm sand in the desert, you can travel in relatively high-range gears.

Remember that the sand’s surface crust will be stronger, and appear dryer, in the cool of the morning.

Driving in damp desert sand after rainfall can be easier. Flowers blooming overnight will also help bind the sand together.

If you encounter dunes, go around them not over them.

Should you get caught in a sandstorm: turn the rear of your vehicle to face the wind, turn the engine off and wait for the storm to pass.