Can a sedan complete the Qinghai-Gansu Grand Loop?
2 Answers
Yes. The entire route spans 2,600 kilometers and involves crossing several high-altitude mountain passes with steep slopes and sharp turns. It requires experienced drivers, preferably with two drivers taking turns at the wheel. Drive steadily and slowly. The road conditions are excellent throughout, being straight and wide, but avoid speeding and fatigue driving. The co-driver especially should not sleep. Also, be cautious of sudden appearances of cattle or sheep by the roadside. Below is relevant information about expressways: Definition of expressway: An expressway, also known as a highway, is a road designed specifically for high-speed vehicle travel. Advantages of expressways: Increased travel speed, saving time; enhanced traffic efficiency; reduced transportation costs; fewer traffic accidents; and conservation of land resources. Disadvantages of expressways: Environmental impact; longer construction periods as expressway construction standards are much higher than those for ordinary roads; and in the event of a traffic accident, the consequences are usually more severe, and traffic jams are harder to clear.
I think a sedan is perfectly capable of handling the Qinghai-Gansu Grand Loop. I've driven the entire route with an ordinary car in recent years. The route stretches from Qinghai Lake to Dunhuang, with most sections being paved roads. Although sedans have lower ground clearance, as long as you avoid the rainy and snowy seasons and drive slowly, you can manage just fine. In high-altitude areas like the stretch from Xining to Zhangye, the engine power may weaken due to the altitude, so it's advisable to check the brakes and tire pressure before setting off, and carry a spare tire and an air pump. Gas stations are scarce in the Gobi Desert, so bring extra water and dry food for emergencies. Economically, sedans are more fuel-efficient and cost-effective, and they're easier to park than SUVs, making them suitable for budget-conscious travelers. Don't rush; take your time to enjoy the scenery. Just bring some altitude sickness medicine as a precaution, and your sedan will handle this route well.
