RUF Rodeo Concept, the tribute to the rally Porsche we'll miss at the Geneva Motor Show

The cancellation of the Geneva Motor Show is not only preventing us from seeing the latest novelties in the automotive sector first-hand, but also the prototypes that usually fill these exhibitions, such as the Rodeo Concept, a prototype created by the German manufacturer RUF Automobile that would have been there alongside the SCR, a spectacular carbon-fibre model.

Many will know the company RUF Automobile, but for those who are not familiar with it, they may recognise it as the manufacturer that creates its models based on the Porsche range and that has also appeared in several well-known video game franchises across various platforms. One of its latest creations, which was due to be presented at the Geneva Motor Show, is the RUF Rodeo Concept, a crossover prototype that uses the manufacturer’s latest technical innovations.

Since its creations are based on Porsche models, it is inevitable that the Rodeo Concept reminds us of and evokes a certain tribute to the legendary rally models of the Porsche, perhaps most readily bringing to mind the 991 (953) that the German company built to compete in the 1984 Paris-Dakar, with which they went on to win thanks to the solutions it incorporated, such as four-wheel drive, used for the first time on a 911.

Although its look is not as radical as that of the Porsche 911 from the Paris-Dakar, the RUF Rodeo Concept manages to combine in a single vehicle that adventurous spirit with a retro look that is combined with today’s technology. Although the brand does not provide much data, the Rodeo Concept is characterised by incorporating a carbon-fibre monocoque chassis similar to that of the CTR Anniversary and the SCR, with the particularity that its bay can house either a naturally aspirated engine or the characteristic flat-six turbo units the company itself prepares.

To allow the RUF Rodeo Concept to be used on narrow tracks, it has been equipped with four-wheel drive, as well as enormous off-road tyres by Michelin, apparently fitted to wheels of the type RUF usually uses on its models, along with suspension with greater ground clearance. All of this is complemented by a very distinctive and adventurous styling, in which the protective front bumper, the roof rack for carrying tools and luggage, and the huge auxiliary front lights will undoubtedly catch the eye; together with auxiliary elements such as the mudguards and the spare wheel mounted at the rear, plus a livery that clearly evokes adventure.