SUVs are very popular with ski tourists, because they offer plenty of space for luggage and sports equipment and, thanks to all-wheel drive, often allow easy access to the ski lift. That the journey doesn't have to end there shows Kia now at the SEMA tuning fair in Las Vegas: With the Sorento Ski Gondola, alpine athletes can be brought straight to the start of the slopes.
A classic all-wheel drive is not enough, of course, which is why the company LUX Motorwerks, responsible for the conversion, has replaced the four tires with compact chain drives. With these rubber chain feet from the Dominator brand, the Sorento gains climbing expertise at the level of snow groomers. The Korea all-wheel drive also drives autonomously, which allows the occupants to sit in the Sorento as relaxed as in a ski lift. Thanks to the counter-hinged doors and the absence of B-pillars, entry into the heated interior is very easy. The passenger cell, lined with a waterproof floor, offers vis-a-vis seating with four seats, each with plenty of leg room. There is a center console with a tablet between the two front seats, which can be used to control the Sorento. Since the Ski Gondola drives autonomously, there was no need for a steering wheel or other cockpit components.
There is a holder for the skis on the roof, while ski boots and other luggage fit in the trunk. (Mario Hommen / SP-X)