Stellantis Transforms Compact SUV Into an Electric Rally Machine | Carscoops

      Opel demonstrates that SUVs can serve as an equally strong foundation for rallying as their ICE hatchback equivalents.

      The Opel Mokka GSE Rally is designed to comply with the FIA's new eRally5 regulations.

      This rally car features a unique livery, a roof scoop, new alloy wheels, and updated bumpers.

      A roadgoing version of the Mokka GSE performance EV is expected to follow later this year.

      Opel has refreshed its GSE performance sub-brand for electric vehicles, and even before the first production model arrives, a rally car has already been introduced. The Mokka GSE Rally represents a more robust, performance-oriented variant of the compact SUV, equipped with an electric powertrain and a range of chassis enhancements.

      Visually, the Mokka prepared for rallying is distinguished by a special livery that combines black, gray, and yellow graphics. It is mounted on large alloy wheels featuring yellow brake calipers, and the sporty front and rear bumpers, alongside a roof-mounted intake, differentiate it from the standard Mokka Electric.

      Some of these elements, like the more aggressive body kit, are likely to be included in the roadgoing Opel Mokka GSE. This performance variant of the electric SUV is anticipated to launch in late 2025, potentially sharing specifications with similar models like the Abarth 600e and Alfa Romeo Junior Veloce.

      Returning to the rally car, it is built to align with the FIA's new eRally5 regulations and will eventually replace the Opel Corsa Electric Rally, which has been active since 2019. The SUV is equipped with a single electric motor that produces 278 hp (207 kW / 280 PS) and 345 Nm (255 lb-ft) of torque. The power is transferred to the front wheels through a multi-plate limited-slip differential and a racing transmission.

      The 54 kWh battery pack is taken from the Mokka Electric but is reinforced with special encapsulation and underride protection. Chassis enhancements include a rally-style suspension from Bilstein, incorporating strengthened McPherson struts at the front and modified springs and dampers on the stiff rear axle. Additionally, the ABS, ESP, and traction control systems have been removed, allowing drivers to fully exploit the Mokka’s potential on various surfaces.

      The interior of the rally vehicle has been stripped down, featuring a FIA-certified roll cage and a pair of bucket seats equipped with six-point harnesses. For safety, the 400-volt system will automatically shut off in the event of a collision, and the fire suppression system utilizes an electrically non-conductive extinguishing agent.

      Opel intends to make the Mokka GSE Rally available to private customers and teams beginning with the 2026 rally season. Before that, the prototype will be demonstrated at the ELE Rally Eindhoven in the Netherlands, scheduled for May 23-24. This event is part of the ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup, which will also showcase the Corsa Rally Electric, another entrant in the electrified rally competition.