These Secret Tiny Dots and a Microscope Help Prevent the 2022 Toyota Land Cruiser From Getting Stolen

by Gabrielle DeSantis

The Toyota Land Cruiser has been an automotive icon for decades. Its dependability and rugged reliance make it highly desirable for both customers and thieves. The Land Cruiser offers so much to anyone looking for a tough 4×4 that it is a clear winner for criminals and militant groups to steal, scrub the VIN and make it disappear. However, Toyota has just been pretty clever with how they place VIN on the new 2022 Toyota Land Cruiser. 

2022 Toyota Land Cruiser | Toyota

How can these little dots stop the 2022 Toyota Land Cruiser from getting stolen?

The tiny VIN is shown at the 10:12 mark

According to CarScoops, a Russian car reviewer had the new 2022 Toyota Land Cruiser and found something very interesting splattered on its chassis. During his Land Cruiser review, he pointed out these little dots and said that they were a way to keep thieves from stealing and scrubbing the VIN. 

At first glance, these dots are barely even visible, much less significant looking. They might even appear to be some road debris or something at first. However, if you were to take a microscope to these little spots you’d find the VIN printed on each one, written forwards and backward. 

What keeps a thief from removing the dots? 

2022 Land Cruiser VIN is within these tiny dots scattered over the chassis
2022 Toyota Land Cruiser VIN | YouTube ПриветТачка

Honestly, Toyota probably doesn’t love journalists pointing out these little hidden security stickers. Know that we know, what stops a thief from simply painting over or removing the little dots? Well, nothing really. However, the genius behind these mini VINs is that there is no telling where all Toyota has placed them throughout the 2022 Toyota Land Cruiser. 

While there is nothing keeping a thief from removing these, now they all must be plagued with the idea that there are more around the truck that could get them busted at any time. As soon as a VIN is reported stolen these little dots will verify who originally owned the vehicle. 

new Land Cruiser VIN up close
2022 Toyota Land Cruiser VIN | YouTube ПриветТачка

The Land Cruiser’s legendary reputation is well earned. For decades people all over the world have trusted their Land Cruisers to get them out of a bind, the LCs deliver. Unfortunately, this ruggedness makes Land Cruisers very popular trucks for various paramilitary groups and even terrorist organizations. 

The 2022 Toyota Land Cruiser is just a continuation of the same pluck and grit that has made the LC an off-road legend for years. The new one is more cushy and expensive than any previous model, but it’s not just soft seats that make the 2022 Land Cruiser so expensive. 

For instance, the Land Cruiser GR Sport variant was developed using feedback from drivers racing in the Dakar Rally, where the Land Cruiser has been participating in the production car category since 1995. For the 2023 Dakar Rally onwards, Toyota Auto Body will participate in the race using a vehicle based on the 300 Series GR Sport. 

With that level of intensity on tap, who could blame these militant groups for wanting to roll in something so secure and tough. Luckily, Toyota is thinking creatively about how to solve this issue. 

RELATED: What Is VIN Etching and Is it the Scam of the Decade?

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This Postmodern Electric Scooter Can Go From 0-30 MPH in 2.3 Seconds

by Gabrielle DeSantis

If you have ever wanted an electric car, but don’t have the space to park one or the ability to plug it in, then the Zapp i300 could be for you. This postmodern electric scooter offers a quick and easy means of transportation for those who reside in dense urban environments. However, the i300 isn’t like the Vespas of yesteryear. In fact, it’s much more.

The Zapp i300 has the convenience of a scooter and the performance of a motorcycle

Zapp i300 electric scooter | Zapp

Electric-powered cars are slowly becoming the norm, however, the scooter market is beating them to the punch. Zapp, an electric scooter company that’s based in the UK, is looking to get into the electric space by releasing the i300. At first glance, this futuristic-looking two-wheeler kind of looks like your run-of-the-mill scooter, but don’t let its looks fool you.

The Zapp i300 is powered by two ultra-slim battery packs that feed power to an air-cooled, permanent magnet electric motor that produces 20 hp. That might not sound like much, and honestly, it’s actually on par with other scooters in the current market, but the horsepower figure isn’t the main highlight. Instead, just like any electric-powered vehicle, the i300 is able to produce a lot of torque from the get-go.

According to Motor Trend, the i300’s torque peaks at 63 lb-ft, which tops three superbikes in the current market: the Honda CBR 650F (45 lb-ft), the Kawasaki Ninja 650 (47 lb-ft), and the Triumph Daytona 765 Moto 2 (59 lb-ft). That’s impressive, especially considering the i300 can get from 0 to 30 mph in just 2.3 seconds. Its top speed is governed at 60 mph.

It has a lightweight architecture that’s fully recyclable

Zapp i300 spring suspension
Zapp i300 | Zapp

While the Zapp i300’s performance is its main highlight, that large amount of zip is backed by the scooter’s load-bearing aluminum exoskeletal seat structure and body that rides on a Chromoly steel frame, reports Motor Trend. That fancy architecture equates to a light curb weight of just 200 pounds and gives the i300 the ability to accommodate a rider up to 350 pounds.

Not only is the i300’s frame lightweight and tough, it’s also recyclable. According to Yahoo News, the i300’s use of an alloy exoskeleton and composite body negate the need for plastic components, thus making it highly recyclable and delivering on the company’s dedication to full-cycle sustainability.

However, the onboard batteries play an important role, too. The i300 carries two 1.4-kWh battery packs that are shaped like slim laptops and located low in the chassis, underneath the rider’s feet. This lower center of gravity improves the scooter’s overall stability and the batteries’ light 12-pound weight doesn’t hamper things down either. As far as charging goes, the i300 can be charged using a standard 120-volt plug or a 240-volt charger. Yahoo reports that that charging those batteries to 80 percent only takes about an hour. Fully charged, the i300 should be able to get up to 40 miles of range.

When will the Zapp i300 be for sale in the U.S.?

Zapp i300 battery floor
Zapp i300 | Zapp

The Zapp i300 is set to make its debut in Paris later this month and will show up in the Asia and U.S. markets sometime next year. The i300 will be produced in Thailand and has a starting price of $7,495. However, a limited Carbon Launch Edition can also be had for $8,995, before any incentives.

Considering the Zapp i300 is an electric scooter made for urban areas packed with traffic, there is no doubt that it will be a great substitute for anyone looking for an electrified means of transportation. At least now, you won’t have to worry about parking a car somewhere and plugging it in. The i300 could easily fit in a carport or even in your living room if needed.  

RELATED: These Electric Bicycles Are the Perfect RV Companion Tool

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Which 2021 Ram 1500 Model Is Best for Towing and Hauling?

by Gabrielle DeSantis

There’s no denying that the 2021 Ram 1500 has a lot to offer. It’s a new full-size pickup and, according to U.S. News & World Report, is the best new truck of 2021. While landing such a title is undoubtedly nice, chances are you’re also concerned with how much this new truck can tow. Read more to find out which 2021 Ram 1500 model is the best for towing and hauling.

The Ram 1500’s engine options include plenty of choices

Now, determining how much the 2021 Ram 1500 can tow isn’t exactly straightforward. That’s because when it comes to engine options, the Ram 1500 offers several of them. While this year’s model does come standard with a 305-hp 3.6-liter V6 engine, that’s not the only engine option the Ram 1500 offers.

If the Ram 1500’s base engine doesn’t offer quite enough power for you, consider opting for its available 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine instead. Available in two configurations, this HEMI V8 engine churns out a full 395-hp and 410 pound-feet of torque. 

Consider the Ram 1500’s 6.2-liter Supercharged HEMI V8 engine that can charge from 0–60 mph in a short 4.5 seconds for an even faster truck. And if it’s a new diesel truck that you’re after? The Ram 1500 is also available with a 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 engine that delivers a best-in-class 480 pound-feet of torque rating.

The best 2021 Ram 1500 model for towing and hauling

2021 Ram 1500 | Stellantis

As for which Ram 1500 model is the best for towing and hauling? According to U.S. News & World Report, for the most towing power, you’re going to want a Ram 1500 with the quad cab, rear-wheel drive, and the truck’s available 5.7-liter HEMI V8. Be sure, though, that it’s the Ram 1500’s V8 engine with Ram’s class-exclusive eTorque Mild Hybrid Technology System. With this setup, the Ram 1500 will have you towing a maximum of 12,750-pounds.

Now, here’s the thing, the Ram’s available V8 engine isn’t the only engine option that offers a serious amount of towing power. Opt for the V8 without eTorque, and this new full-size truck can still tow up to 11,610-pounds. Meanwhile, the Ram 1500’s diesel engine can tow 12,560-pounds, and its base engine can manage up to 7,730-pounds.

Is the 2021 Ram 1500 the best truck for towing?

While the 2021 Ram 1500 does offer a full lineup of engines that are more than capable of towing and hauling a serious amount of weight, it may not be the best truck for satisfying your towing and hauling needs. Because, as it turns out, there are a couple of stronger alternatives to the 2021 Ram 1500.

Take, for example, the 2021 Ford F-150. Unlike the new 1500, the Ford F-150 boasts a class-leading max tow rating of 14,000-pounds. The 2021 Chevy Silverado is also a stronger alternative to the Ram 1500. In fact, opt for a Silverado with a 6.2-liter V8 under the hood, and this year’s model will have you towing up to 13,300-pounds.

Does this mean that the 2021 Ram 1500 isn’t the best truck for towing? Not necessarily. In fact, if you don’t plan on towing more than 10,000-pounds, the 2021 Ram 1500 makes for a great pick. To find out whether or not this year’s model would be a good fit for you, we recommend getting behind the wheel for a test drive.

RELATED: How Much Do the Best New Trucks of 2021 Cost?

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The Morgan Plus Four CX-T Is Ready to Hunt Down Safari 911s

by Gabrielle DeSantis

If you’re a fan of lifted, off-road-prepped supercars and sports cars, you have Safari 911 builds to thank for that. However, the trend hasn’t just inspired tuners; it’s also starting to spread to automakers, including, somewhat unexpectedly, Morgan. The British company is mostly known for vintage-style sports cars and the unconventional 3-Wheeler. But while the Morgan Plus Four CX-T has the classic looks, it’s designed less for Savile Row and more for the Paris-Dakar.

The Morgan Plus Four CX-T skips teatime for off-road playtime

Morgan Plus Four CX-T | Morgan

Although it sort of shares a name with the Plus 4, the Morgan Plus Four CX-T isn’t based on that car. The Plus 4 was built on a steel chassis, while its replacement, the ‘regular’ Plus Four, has an aluminum one. Not to mention new wheels and brakes, new double-wishbone suspension, and a different drivetrain, Road & Track explains.

Getting the Plus Four ready for off-roading required some additional modifications, though. That’s why Morgan partnered with Rally Raid UK to design and set up the CX-T. And Rally Raid brought its extensive Dakar experience to the occasion.

The rear 3/4 view of a tan Morgan Plus Four CX-T on a rocky plains trail
Morgan Plus Four CX-T rear 3/4 | Morgan

To start, the Morgan Plus Four CX-T gets bespoke EXE-TC coilovers, modified bushings, and control arms from the larger Plus Six. The latter upgrade allows for extra travel and gives the CX-T a wider track. The sports car also has Maxxis all-terrain tires, five skid plates, and both an internal and an external roll cage. A composite hard-top fits between the two cages.

Speaking of, the external roll cage has an integrated rear equipment rack with two waterproof Pelican cases, a Zarges aluminum toolbox, two Rotopax containers, and two spare wheels with tires. The roll cage itself can also hold things like recovery equipment, additional storage bags, bikes, and even surfboards. And inside, the Plus Four CX-T has a first-aid kit, RAM track mount, removable map/document holder, flexible map light, and insulated ‘cool bag.’

Like all Morgan Plus Fours, the CX-T has a BMW-sourced 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, Top Gear says. With the six-speed manual, it makes 255 bhp and 258 lb-ft of torque—all to the rear wheels. But while it lacks AWD, the Plus Four CX-T does have an electronically-controlled limited-slip differential.

“It’s hilarious,” Top Gear says, and goes “far further than you’d expect”

A 1937 Morgan 4/4 at the 1938 Petersfield Trial
1937 Morgan 4/4 at the 1938 Petersfield Trial | National Motor Museum/Heritage Images/Getty Images

The Morgan Plus Four CX-T might be new, but the idea of a rally Morgan isn’t. That ‘T’ in ‘CX-T’ stands for ‘Trials,’ which were essentially the off-road equivalent of autocross races. Morgans, including early 3-Wheelers, have taken part in these events since 1911. So, in a way, the CX-T concept predates the Safari 911.

Besides historical precedence, the Morgan Plus Four CX-T also has genuine off-road credibility. On top of the new suspension and tires, Rally Raid raised the air intake to improve the wading depth and gave the car extra off-road spotlights. Morgan even installed a new exhaust system to improve the Plus Four’s departure angle, Autoblog reports. And the CX-T has just over 9” of ground clearance—that’s more than a non-Wilderness Subaru Outback.

To be sure, the Morgan Plus Four CX-T isn’t a rally car, nor is it rated for the Dakar. It doesn’t even have sports seats. But “it’s a hoot, secure and confidence-inspiring” when it hits the dirt, Top Gear says. The car is easy to control, whether in a straight line or in a sweeping drift, thanks to excellent weight balance and those grippy tires. And it rides surprisingly well, Top Gear notes. The Plus Four CX-T might not be a rock crawler, but it’s certainly fun when the pavement ends.

How much does a Morgan Plus Four CX-T cost?

You’ll have to act quickly if you want a Morgan Plus Four CX-T. The automaker says it’s only building eight examples before the end of 2021. And they won’t be cheap; prices start at the equivalent of $237,000.

That’s quite a lot of money for what’s essentially an off-road toy. Especially since there’s another RWD, external-roll-cage-equipped car available, the Ariel Nomad Tactical. It might be more exposed and less luxurious, but it starts at ‘just’ $92,250.

Still, buying the Morgan Plus Four CX-T, or indeed, any Morgan, is inherently an impractical, emotion-driven decision. And from the looks of it, this Safari 911 fighter delivers plenty of thrills.

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