Hyundai announced today that it will take on the 2022 Rebelle Rally with automotive writers Jill Ciminillo and Kristin Shaw. The off-road, all-women navigational challenge held in the deserts of California and Nevada will start on October 6.
This will be Hyundai’s first time supporting the annual event. This will also be Shaw and Ciminillo’s rookie year and they will pilot a Santa Cruz. The rally starts at a location that has yet to be announced and will cover 1,500 miles (2,414 km) over eight days, ending on October 15 in the Imperial Sand Dunes of Southern California.
“We’re thrilled to be driving the unique Santa Cruz in this 1,500-mile rally and representing Hyundai, a brand that has been knocking it out of the park and establishing itself as a major player,” said Shaw. “I’ve been watching Hyundai evolve over the last several years and have been impressed by its innovative, intelligent approach to the market.”
Read Also: The 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz Mixes Crossover Comfort With Truck Capability
Since it will be their first attempt at the rally, Shaw and Ciminillo will have to complete a two-day navigation school and a two-day off-road driving school at the Rebelle University. The courses will include lessons on sand driving and basic recovery techniques, tires and vehicle troubleshooting, map reading and interpretation, plotting latitude and longitude, and route planning, among others.
The truck is powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that makes up to 281 hp (210 kW/285 PS) and 311 lb-ft (422 Nm) of torque and sends that power to all four wheels. For its desert sojourn, it will be fitted with a skid plate and off-road tires that will help the Santa Cruz get 8.6-inches of ground clearance.
“We are incredibly proud to be sponsoring our first Hyundai team in the Rebelle Rally,” said Dana White, chief communications officer, Hyundai Motor North America. “Rebelle Rally is not only about the competition. It is also about empowering women and allowing them to showcase their strengths and skills. We are thrilled to be partnering with Jill and Kristin on this adventure and can’t wait to see them in action in the Santa Cruz.”
