In almost all branches of motorsport, the concept of sustainability still evokes mixed reactions. Many enthusiasts prefer the sound of combustion engines, while car manufacturers and the FIA have been looking for ways to electrify the sport for years. Opel and the German motorsport federation ADAC are taking the next step in this. In the sixth season of the first fully electric rally class, the Opel Mokka GSE makes its debut as the successor to the Corsa Electric.
Read more Fernando Alonso full of confidence in disastrous season: ‘Am the best’
The new rally car has significantly more power than its predecessor and will this season for the first time largely follow the same route as the rally cars with combustion engines. The season recently started during the Opel ELEctric Rally in Eindhoven. According to Vincent van Dantzig of Stichting ELE Rally, the introduction of the Mokka GSE results in a higher pace than in previous years. The charging infrastructure has also been further developed. Electric trucks with mobile battery systems are deployed, allowing participants to charge at various locations. Van Dantzig emphasizes that this provides more flexibility during the races.
Dutch talents
On behalf of the KNAF Academy, two Dutch drivers will compete in the class this season: Fabian Kamermans and Max van Empel. The 21-year-old Kamermans already gained experience last year with the Opel Corsa and looks forward to his first full season with his Mokka GSE. During the ELE Rally, he finished fourth together with his navigator Stefan Müller. “Compared to the Corsa, this is a big step forward. During the test, I immediately noticed that it is a completely different car. It will be a challenging season, with the goal of competing for the title,” Kamermans tells via Van Dantzig.
Read more Cadillac clarifies cause of Pérez front suspension collapse: ‘Seemed worse than it was’
(Text continues below image)
Van Empel impressed last season by winning the Dutch Rally5 title in a Renault Clio. For the 19-year-old driver, however, 2026 means his first introduction to electric rally driving. Last weekend he was on course for second place for a long time, but in the final stage he retired due to damage to the rear suspension. “It is a great opportunity, especially in only my second year in rallying. The calendar consists of almost new rallies for me, but together with navigator Eddy Smeets I want to learn as much as possible and gain experience,” says Van Empel.
International calendar
The Opel ELEctric Rally consists of seven events in six different countries this season. Drivers from nine countries will start, with Italy and Great Britain being represented for the first time in the electric rally class.
Read more Sainz stops ‘complaining about 2026 regulations’: ‘Hope placed on next year’
See the calendar below:
- May 29-30: ELE Rally – Netherlands
- June 13-14: Rallye Vosges Grand-Est – France
- July 17-18: Rallye Weiz – Austria
- August 14-15: ADAC Saarland-Palatinate Rally – Germany
- September 25-26: ADAC Rallye Stemweder Berg – Germany
- October 17-18: Rally Sanremo – Italy
- November 28-29: Rallye Spa – Belgium
Read all about the GP Monaco here
