In a groundbreaking moment at the Rebelle Rally, the longest off-road map-and-compass rally in the United States, an all-electric vehicle achieved a historic victory. The 2023 Rivian R1T, affectionately known as ‘Timmy’ by its drivers, claimed a remarkable win in the 4×4 class, marking a significant milestone for electric vehicles (EVs) in the demanding world of off-road competitions.
The Rebelle Rally, now in its eighth year, witnessed all-women teams navigating a challenging 2,120-kilometer course, relying exclusively on paper maps, compasses, and plotters. Behind the wheel of the Rivian R1T were Lilly Macaruso and navigator Alex Anderson, both Rivian employees who secured the fourth position in the 2022 Rebelle Rally.
This year brought another first as Rivian customer Many Brezina and navigator Alex Gilman entered the competition with her personally owned R1T, finishing 11th in the challenging race.
The victorious Rivian R1T remained largely unaltered, with only tire changes allowed to meet the event’s regulations. However, Anderson and Macaruso, both Rivian employees, made strategic interior modifications to enhance the organization during the event. Anderson, a senior mechanical engineer at Rivian, designed various custom components that proved invaluable during the race, such as secure storage for a five-gallon water jug, interior enhancements for a more convenient experience, and mounts for essential tools.
The Rebelle Rally has served as a proving ground for Rivian, enabling the company to fine-tune and enhance its electric vehicles. Feedback from participants, including the influence of features like the “sand mode,” has played a crucial role in the validation of software builds.
One of the challenges for electric vehicles at the Rebelle Rally is charging, as the competition takes participants far from established charging stations. The rally partnered with Renewable Innovations, which provided DC fast chargers for the event. However, this year marked a significant transition, with the adoption of green hydrogen to power the chargers. The move to green hydrogen aligns with the rally’s commitment to sustainability.
Four charging points, equipped with trailered chargers, were strategically placed along the course to cater to teams driving EVs. This significant shift showcases the rally’s dedication to sustainability and the potential for innovative solutions in challenging off-road competitions.
The victory of the Rivian R1T at the Rebelle Rally underscores the growing capabilities and competitiveness of electric vehicles in demanding off-road scenarios. It also highlights the importance of real-world testing and feedback in the continuous improvement of EV technology. As electric vehicles continue to gain prominence, their participation and success in events like the Rebelle Rally serve as a testament to their adaptability and performance in various challenging terrains.
