Conventionally powered off-road capable vehicles – such as the Baja 1000-finisher SCG Boot – have been conquering long-distance rallies. But can a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle do the same? A Ford Bronco Sport may have won the 2020 Rebelle Rally, but a Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV answered the question by taking a podium finish and becoming the first plug-in hybrid EV to complete the event.

First PHEV To Complete Rebelle

Team RTJ and Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
Via Mitsubishi

Sergeant Major Rachael Ridenour and Master Sergeant Kristie Levy served as the navigator and driver, respectively, of the #207 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV under the banner of Team Record the Journey (RTJ). Ridenour, a 32-year U.S. Army combat veteran and Team RTJ founder, is a multi-time Rebelle competitor and winner.

Together, Ridenour, Levy and an Outlander PHEV that's nicknamed "Electra" spent around 10 days navigating more than 1,242 miles (2,000 kilometers) of off-highway terrain crossing the Nevada and California deserts. They eventually accumulated 1,034 points and finished third in the X-Cross class of the navigational challenge. A 2021 Ford Bronco Sport won the class, followed by a 2020 Kia Telluride.

Two Podium, Two Records In A Row

207 RTJ Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV dusk
Via Mitsubishi

In the 2019 edition of the Rebelle Rally, Mitsubishi and Team RTJ grabbed second place in the X-Cross class. Team RTJ piloted a minimally modified Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross nicknamed “Rosie the Riveter.” It was driven by U.S. Air Force veteran Karah Behrend, with navigation duties fulfilled by Ridenour. Behrend is the first adaptive athlete to complete the Rebelle Rally.

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Their 2019 success catapulted the team's return to Rebelle this year, and this time, a Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV was the chosen drive. Event organizer Emily Miller opened Rebelle to electrified vehicles this year, even adding an Electrified designation for PHEVs and BEVs. A 2020 Rivian R1T competed in the 4x4 Class.

More Than Up To The Task

207 RTJ Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV sand dunes
Via Mitsubishi

While the 10-day challenge was grueling for Ridenour and Levy, they found the Outlander PHEV proved more than up to the task. In fact, they love the fact that they can make coffee using the SUV's 110-volt outlet in the back.

Source: Mitsubishi

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