![]() ![]() ![]() Yet, it’s a part of the process that very few even consider - that is until you’re in the middle of a sandstorm or navigating across a desert, both of which I faced while behind the wheel of a 2020 Porsche Cayenne S. Car manufacturers travel all over the world to places with extreme weather and temperatures to test vehicles to ensure that the vehicle in your driveway can withstand everything from subzero temperatures, snow, mud and rain to intense heat, sand and wind, all while running at or near the limit. Running a high-tech product at or near its limit in a tech-adverse environment is one way that auto manufacturers test vehicles during pre-production. These vehicle features are modern-day must-haves, yet because these complex systems are so instrumental to our daily lives, we only think about them when they’re not working or, in the case of the Rebelle Rally, blocked for competition.Ĭompetitors in the Rebelle Rally - the annual off-road navigational competition for women - got to play test engineer for eight days, an experience that provided a deep understanding of what automotive-grade really means, all while competing to find hidden checkpoints in the desert for points. 6-15.The killer app of any tech is to make your life easier and more comfortable the GPS in your car helps you find the best route to a restaurant when traffic is backed up, if you have cruise control, you can set a speed on the highway to ensure that you don’t get a ticket. The previous year, a 2020 Telluride narrowly missed first place in the X-Cross class. In 2021, two 2022 Sorento PHEVs earned podium spots in the X-Cross class with second- and third place finishes. Made for outdoor adventures right out of the gate, the X-Pro comes standard with an Active AWD system and multi-terrain drive modes with Normal, Sport, Smart, and Snow. This treatment enhances the already capable Sportage X-Pro, which is powered by a 187-hp 2.5-liter I-4 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Skidplates in the front, rear and underbody will help protect the Sportage’s underbelly, while 17-inch Rhino wheels are wrapped in BFGoodrich® All-Terrain T/A K02 tires, sponsored by Michelin. Wearing a wrap inspired by Kia’s new slogan, “Movement that Inspires,” the Sportage dons custom Baja Forged front- and rear bumpers complete with tow points and a custom roof rack. ![]() To help further the success of the team out on the trail, Kia partnered with Theresa Contreras and Sara Morosan, the powerhouse-sister team and owners of LGE-CTS Motorsports and Baja Forged off-road products, to prime the 2023 Sportage X-Pro for the rally. “An incredible off-road contender back then, the latest iteration of the Sportage will build upon its legacy by tackling the arduous Rebelle Rally with finesse, especially with such a fierce team at the helm.” “Kia’s longest running nameplate has a storied past of off-road desert racing with impressive results to boot in the Paris-Dakar rally and Baja 1000 race,” said Steve Center, COO and EVP, Kia America. Teammates Verena Mei (driver) and Tana White (navigator) return this year for redemption in the X-Cross class after placing second in the Sorento PHEV last year. Kia America is headed to the iconic Rebelle Rally for the third year in a row, this time with a 2023 Sportage X-Pro that has been modified to handle the harsh topography that makes up the 1,500-mile navigational challenge. 2023 Sportage X-Pro outfitted by LGE-CTS Motorsports will compete in X-Cross class.Returning teammates Verena Mei and Tana White determined to outdo their outstanding performance from last year.Kia America returns to the iconic all-women off-road navigational challenge for third consecutive year. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
Details
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |