Kia’s Enters Sorento Hybrid In The 1500 Mile Long Rebelle Rally

The 2021 Rebelle Rally started this week. It’s an all-female race that will cover 1,500 miles across the California and Nevada deserts. Kia has two modified Sorento plug-in hybrids in the race.

The vehicles have an armored underbody to protect its components during the race. Also, both Sorentos have skid plates and bumper guards, and they are also lifted off the ground 1-inch higher than stock. The hybrids have Hankook Dynapro AT2 tires wrapped around 17-inch KMC matte black wheels. The rear seats have been removed to make room for a cargo mounting system and roof racks were added. The powertrains were left totally unmodified.

Seeing electric vehicles in endurance races is becoming more and more commonplace. Volkswagen’s ID.4 SUV took part in the Mexican 1000 Rally in April and Audi is preparing a custom-built PHEV (Plug In Hybrid Electric Vehicle) for the Dakar Rally early next year.