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Weathering the Road: New Hankook Tire Survey

Weathering the Road: New Hankook Tire Survey

New data from Hankook Tire highlights consumer stresses on the road, from inclement weather to teen driving

A passenger car on a dry road that is promoting winter-safe tires.

The latest Gauge Index survey by Hankook Tire reveals insights into the challenges faced by drivers today. (Hankook Tire)

REWRITE BY MARK MAYNARD

If it seems as if driving post-pandemic is scarier than before, you are not alone. In its latest Gauge Index survey, Hankook Tire reveals today’s biggest challenges for drivers.

Drivers face countless challenges as they take to the road each day. They must navigate unpredictable weather, deal with maintenance issues, and deal with the persistent worry parents have about teen driving.

Braving the Elements: A Driver’s Dilemma

According to the Gauge, driving in inclement weather is the top challenge for drivers (25 percent), followed by driving in unfamiliar places (17 percent) and changing a flat tire (15 percent). In addition, 51 percent of drivers indicate that bad weather would prompt them to stop driving or turn around and delay reaching their destination.Hankook Tire Gauge Index logo

When examining generational demographics, it is noteworthy that 62 percent of baby boomers, compared to 37 percent of Gen Z, identified bad weather as a reason to halt or delay their journey. Moreover, among respondents who identified changing a flat tire as the most challenging situation, 17 percent were Boomers compared to 10 percent of Gen Z.

Overall, when harsh weather is forecast, vehicle preparation becomes a ritual for many motorists:

  • 59 percent check tire pressure and tread depth;
  • 53 percent refill fluids; and
  • 50 percent replace windshield wipers.

Teen Driving a Parental Test

The Gauge survey also highlights parental concerns regarding teen driving, offering insights into the complexities of their apprehensions. While striving to maintain a sense of optimism, parents of teen drivers express varying degrees of concern depending on the distance of their teen’s journey.

When teens venture out locally, 39 percent of parents admit feeling “a bit anxious but hopeful.” However, this sentiment diminishes to 28 percent when contemplating their teen driving long distances.

Regional disparities further shape parental perceptions. Northeastern parents are in the most apprehensive group. In the Northeast, 23 percent of parents admit feeling “extremely concerned and fearful” about their teen driving locally. That percentage shows a notable difference compared to the parental concerns in the South (12 percent) and West (7 percent).

Conversely, drivers in the South exhibit a notable sense of trust in their teens’ ability to navigate long distances. A considerable 32 percent of Southern parents feel “confident and relaxed” when their teen embarks on long-distance drives. That confidence surpasses the sentiments of parents in the Northeast (14 percent) and the West (11 percent).

Choose the Correct Winter Tire

Hankook Tire's Kinergy 4S2 features excellent dry, wet and snow performance, complete with a Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake rating.

Hankook Tire’s Kinergy 4S2 is rated a Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake.

Traditional all-season tires offer versatility in various weather conditions, but all-weather tires can provide peace of mind. Hankook’s Kinergy 4S2, for example, has a Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake rating. The snowflake rating indicates a tire has met certain requirements for severe snow conditions. Dedicated winter tires, however, are the best option for deep snow and ice.

Three-peak snowflake tires have scored at least 110 on the traction index. That means the tires can accelerate at least 10 percent faster than an all-season tire that is not 3PMS-rated.

About the Survey

“The insights provided by the Hankook Gauge Index are invaluable in understanding drivers’ evolving needs and concerns,” said Rob Williams, President of Hankook Tire America Corp.

The Hankook Gauge Index surveys Americans’ attitudes and opinions about driving. The latest survey, conducted March 13-14, polled 1,012 randomly selected Americans age 18 and older.

57th Annual Easter Jeep Safari April 1-9

57th Annual Easter Jeep Safari April 1-9

 The long-running Moab Easter Jeep Safari will draw 20,000 participants and debut 7 wild Jeep concept vehicles, four of which are electrified

The group of 7 Jeep concept vehicles

Seven one-of-a-kind Jeep concept vehicles take four-wheeling to the next level of Jeep 4×4 capability for the 2023 Easter Jeep Safari. (Photos courtesy of Stellantis)

Table of Contents

Wrangler Magneto 3.0 Concept
Scrambler 392 Concept
1978 Jeep Cherokee 4xe Concept
Wrangler Rubicon 4xe Concept
Grand Wagoneer Overland Concept
Wrangler Rubicon 4xe Departure Concept
Gladiator Rubicon Sideburn Concept
Jeep Performance Parts

 BY MARK MAYNARD

Jeep has just off-loaded seven wild mission-capable concept vehicles for the 57th annual Easter Jeep Safari, April 1-9, 2023, in Moab, Utah

The annual gathering since 1967, began as a simple one-day trail ride by the Moab Chamber of Commerce. Over the years, as participation grew, the Easter Safari expanded until it finally reached the current nine-day event. “Big Saturday” remains the culmination of the event on the Saturday of Easter weekend.

Today, Moab’s Red Rock 4-Wheelers four-wheel-drive club hosts the Easter Jeep Safari. The club will lead trail rides and some daylong trips.

“Every year, more than 20,000 Jeep enthusiasts descend on Moab, Utah, for Easter Jeep Safari to wheel in the most extreme off-road conditions,” said Jim Morrison, senior vice president and head of Jeep brand North America. 

Moab, Utah — the Jeep brand’s home away from home — has the ideal conditions to connect with Jeep enthusiasts. Morrison said in a release that Jeep listens to its followers for their feedback on where they want to take the Jeep brand into the future.

A trail ride of Jeeps in Moab

Moab’s Red Rock 4-Wheelers four-wheel-drive club hosts the Easter Jeep Safari and leads trail rides and some daylong trips.

Sermon On the Mount 

Electrified power and commanding performance will be front and center during this year’s Safari, Morrison said. Jeep engineers and designers from Jeep Performance Parts (JPP) by Mopar have created one-off rock-crawling and terrain-traversing vehicles to take four-wheeling to the next level.

The Wrangler Magneto, Jeep’s first battery-electric vehicle concept, returns for a third season. The third iteration of the Jeep Wrangler SUV concept, Magneto 3.0, and three other Jeep 4xe concept vehicles are a testament to the Jeep brand’s commitment to Zero Emission Freedom and 4×4 leadership.

Each concept features the latest production and prototype Jeep Performance Parts, all battle-tested for durability.

“Unlike any other aftermarket offerings, our growing portfolio of factory-tested and factory-backed parts and accessories are designed and engineered to face the toughest trails in the world,” said Mark Bosanac, North America senior vice president, Mopar service, parts, and customer care.  

The 2023 Easter Jeep Safari concept vehicles include:

Jeep Wrangler Magneto 3.0 

The Jeep Magneto concept

The Jeep Wrangler Magneto 3.0 Concept is back with modifications for its third safari.

When the Jeep design team began building the Jeep Wrangler Magneto concept, the intention was to use the platform to discover and push the boundaries of 4×4 electrification.

The Jeep Magneto 1.0 concept made its Safari debut in 2021 as a fully capable battery-electric off-roader. Based on a two-door 2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, the Magneto features a custom-built axial flux electric motor that operates up to 6,000 rpm. Its 285-horsepower e-motor connects to a six-speed manual transmission. The compact e-motor was initially tuned to deliver up to 273 foot-pounds of torque.

The 2022 debut of Jeep Magneto 2.0 raised the e-motor power to 625 hp with 850 lb.-ft. of peak torque.

Updates to the 2023 Jeep Magneto include a more efficient motor and updated programming. Together, the powertrain has a 20 percent increase in useable energy and range, Jeep says.

Also new to the 2023 Jeep Magneto 3.0 concept are three driver-selectable functions. Output select allows the driver to choose between two power settings:

Standard: 285 horsepower and 273 lb.-ft. of torque; 

Maximum: 650 horsepower and 900 lb.-ft. of torque;

  • Two-stage power regeneration mode allows normal driving while off, or with enhanced brake regeneration using the electric motor when engaged ;
  • Aggressive hill-descent mode selectable in low range for “one-pedal” off-road driving;

Trail-riding assets of Magneto 3.0 include:

  • Dynatrac 60 front axles (5.38:1 ratio) and Dynatrac 80 rear axles (5.38:1 ratio).
  • 20-inch off-road beadlock wheels.
  • 40-inch mud terrain tires.
  • A 3-inch lift.   
A clear hood insert on the Magneto concept

The tinted hood insert on the Magneto 3.0 Concept.

Bodywork changes include:

  • Door openings swept back by 6 inches for ease of access, ; 
  • A new B-pillar was moved rearward 2.36 inches (60mm) from stock to make way for a custom anti-roll bar;
  • Front fenders stretched back on the trailing edge by two inches; 
  • Windshield raked 12 degrees to give the side view a “chopped” roof feel without shortening the front glass.  

An updated paint scheme showcases all three evolutions of the Jeep Magneto 3.0. The Bright White and Surf Blue theme remains, but it was amped up with more vibrant exterior details and red accents. Magneto’s front seats are re-trimmed in blue leather with red accent stitching. The rear seats have been removed, and the floor is Rhino-lined in Surf Blue.

Jeep Scrambler 392 

The lime-green Jeep Scrambler conceptIntroduced in 1981, the Jeep Scrambler CJ-8 was Jeep’s first convertible, compact truck. This small pickup was similar to the CJ-7, but featured a longer 103-inch wheelbase and an extended rear overhang for increased cargo space.

Fast forward four decades, and the 2023 Jeep Scrambler 392 concept follows in the tracks of the CJ-8. Though a V-8 engine was never available for the CJ-8, the 392 Scrambler concept has a 470-hp 6.4-liter HEMI V-8 with 470 lb.-ft. of torque.  

The Jeep Scrambler 392 concept started as a four-door Wrangler Rubicon. Custom carbon-fiber bodywork reduced body weight. The windshield is laid back 12 degrees and matches a lower roof. The modified silhouette reminds of chopped-top hotrods.

A clear plastic hood panel to show the engine

A tinted, clear insert in the hood sets off the 392-cubic-inch V-8. in the Scrambler 392.

One of the most functional features of the Jeep Scrambler 392 concept is the newly released AccuAir air suspension kit developed for the Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Gladiator. This adjustable-height system ranges from 1.5 to 5.5 inches. The ride height can be adjusted on the fly with an in-cab controller or through long-range Bluetooth on a wireless device.

Updated bodywork includes a new front fender flare and carbon-fiber hood. A tinted, clear insert in the hood sets off the 392-cubic-inch V-8. Lightweight front and rear bumpers with new fender flares allow more clearance for a larger tire and wheel combo.

The Jeep Scrambler 392 concept sits on 40-inch tires on custom 20-inch rims. The rims and tow hooks are finished in Brass Monkey paint, the same as today’s Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392. The concept’s Sublime green paint contrasts with the interior treatment of blue plaid inserts with green stitching.

1978 Jeep Cherokee 4xe Concept

The Jeep Cherokee 4xe electrified concept

This year’s resto-mod concept recalls the 1974 Jeep Cherokee SJ, a two-door version of the Wagoneer. The Cherokee SJ was aimed at younger, more adventurous drivers, Jeep says. 

The Cherokee 4xe concept began with a 1978 Jeep Cherokee, which was married with a 2022 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4xe

The original body was heavily modified, and the exterior melds original proportions with an unmistakably 1970s multicolor paint scheme.

At a glance, the ’78 Jeep Cherokee 4xe concept looks similar to a vintage Jeep Cherokee SJ. But it has been transformed into a modern, electrified, off-road performer.

The bright yellow interior of the Jeep Cherokee 4xe

The concept’s custom interior features low-back bucket seats trimmed in leather.

Under the hood, the ’78 Cherokee 4xe concept uses the Jeep Wrangler 4xe powertrain. Power comes from two electric motors, a high-voltage battery pack, and a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. An eight-speed automatic transmission connects with a 4:1 transfer case. The gearing delivers enough power to turn the 37-inch tires wrapped around custom 17-inch “slotted mag” style wheels.  

The concept’s custom interior features low-back bucket seats trimmed in leather. The rear bench seat was replaced with a four-point safety cage, and the rear cargo space houses a full-size spare tire.  

Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4xe 

A rearview of the Rubicon conceptThis Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4xe concept won’t be overlooked on the trail. It has an unapologetic color palette in its pink-purple-hued paint with gloss black accents. 

An AccuAir air suspension kit raises off-road capability. The adjustable suspension allows clearance for the concept’s 37-inch tires and 17-inch high-gloss black American Expedition Vehicles Borah wheels. Additional AEV pieces include front and rear bumpers, differential covers, and a Warn Zeon winch.

The Wrangler Rubicon concept in bright pink-purple paint

Grand Wagoneer Overland

 The Grand Wagoneer Overland concept with a rooftop sleeping tent for twoOver the hills and through the canyonlands with the cross-trekking 2023 Grand Wagoneer Overland Concept. The exterior of the Grand Wagoneer Overland concept is painted Industrial Green with Gunmetal accents.

The Grand Wagoneer Overland concept leverages the new 510-hp 3.0-liter V-6 Hurricane Twin Turbo 510 engine with 500 lb.-ft. of torque.

A stand-out feature of the overlanding-inspired concept is its rooftop RedTail Overland Skyloft. The carbon-fiber-constructed Skyloft unfolds in around 10 seconds from the inside by pushing up with one arm.

Inside, the Skyloft’s second- and third-row seats have been removed, and the rear-most sunroof was repositioned to create a weatherproof, step-up entrance from the third-row seating area to the Skyloft level. Entry and exit are by a sliding door and a small step, which doubles as a table. 

The 2 person skyloft

The Skyloft unfolds from the inside by pushing up with one arm.

The two-person Skyloft is a climate-controlled oasis. Its cozy interior has two oversized beanbags, a plush throw rug, pillows, and interior lighting. The interior also provides storage for bikes, gear, or anything else worth its weight and size to pack along.

A heavy-duty Warn winch was at the front grille features two sets of custom laser lights for superior night-time visibility. A durable, black Rhino-lined roof has a pop of orange to call out the outdoor gear used by many overlanding enthusiasts.

Bodywork includes larger wheel openings and custom wheel flares. A custom front chin and rear valance improve approach and departure angles. The concept’s 35-inch tires and 18-inch wheels give a 1.5-inch lift to the vehicle, boosting break over and ground clearance.

Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4xe Departure 

The Wrangler Rubicon 4xe Departure concept in Harbor Blue paintThe Jeep Wrangler 4xe Departure is a plug-in hybrid with a catalog of special equipment. It can manage tall steps with 37-inch BF Goodrich tires on 17-by-8.5-inch Vintage Bronze KMC Impact OL wheels. It gets a 2-inch JPP lift kit with Bilstein performance shock absorbers. 

A wide-mouth tubular guard, measuring 4 feet by 1 foot, protects the seven-slot grille. The custom grille guard also folds to create a bumper bench, an ideal perch for two to take a break along the trail. Below the grille guard is a modified Rubicon bumper with a Warn winch.   

New, flat fender flares have integral removable daytime-running-light covers, which are 50-state legal. 

The Rubicon Departure leather interior

Dark Harbor blue exterior paint is carried onto the instrument panel, which features various Vintage Bronze accents.

Unique to the Wrangler 4xe Departure concept are innovative options to mount the spare wheel and tire. At the rear is a custom tube gate that allows front- or rear-facing positions for the spare wheel and tire. When the spare is flipped outward, the system acts as a bed extender for more cargo space. When the gate is turned toward the cabin, the rear overhang is improved for off-roading, with the spare wheel and tire safely secured. The convertible gate maintains a factory backup camera and CHMSL in either position.  

Dark Harbor blue exterior paint is carried onto the instrument panel, which features various Vintage Bronze accents. The bold interior treatment has Nappa leather colors of Light Acorn Squash with darker Carnegie Hall brown, accented with off-white stitching. The Dark Harbor blue continues onto the 

The Wrangler 4xe Departure concept also features an accessory instrument panel rail to mount phones or accessories for recording trail rides.

Jeep Gladiator Rubicon Sideburn 

A rearview of the Jeep Sideburn concept in lime green.

The Jeep Gladiator Sideburn concept, in Solar Flash Yellow paint, gets a JPP 2-inch lift kit with Bilstein performance shock absorbers. Hefty-footprint BF Goodrich tires, 37-by-13-inches, are on black HRE six-spoke wheels, 17-by-9-inches

In response to Jeeper feedback, the Gladiator Sideburn concept has a pair of removable 11-inch TYRI rectangular LED lights at each roof panel. The lighting bracket features a quick disconnect.

A front tire of the Sideburn concept

A hefty-footprint BF Goodrich tires, 37-by-13-inches, are on black HRE six-spoke wheels.

The bed on the Gladiator Sideburn has Molle storage panels mounted above and behind the wheel flares. Integrated RotoPaX containers are specially designed for fuel and liquid storage. In the bed, a modified Mopar spare tire carrier secures a 37-inch wheel and tire.

JPP half doors, side steps, and grab handles add to the open-air attitude.

Custom instrument panel bezels carry a 3D topographical map of Moab scenery. The map is in a matte-black base with gloss dark-silver trails. Accents throughout the cabin are in Atomic Silver matte paint. 

Jeep Performance Parts

A see-through image to show jeep performance parts

JPP’s factory-backed and quality-tested parts include axles, lift kits, bumpers, winches, skid plates, and suspension components.

Created in 2012 and offered by Mopar for the Jeep brand, JPP develops high-end, hard-core quality aftermarket accessories and performance parts. 

The factory-backed and quality-tested parts include axles, lift kits, bumpers, winches, skid plates, and suspension components. 

To see the full line of Jeep Performance Parts, visit Mopar.com.

Ducati DesertX First Look

Ducati DesertX First Look

The 2022 Ducati DesertX Adventure Bike is a proper desert rider and a true Ducati

A rider in the desert on the 2022 Ducati DesertX adventure bike

The 2022 Ducati DesertX goes on sale in June with a starting price of $16,795. (Photos courtesy of Ducati)

Table of Contents

Overview
DesertX Technologies
Riding Features
DesertX accessories
Pricing
Why Buy the Ducati DesertX?
Ducati DesertX Specifications

BY JOE MICHAUD
Special to Maynard’s Garage

Development of the new Ducati DesertX started as a simple concept to grow the brand’s platform for the off-road Scrambler and Multistrada. But early on, the team realized it had the potential to build a proper desert rider — and a more dedicated machine that they believed could be a true Ducati.

“The chassis has been developed from the ground up specifically to go off road,” Jason Chinnock, CEO Ducati North America, said in a recent interview at the brand’s “Ready for Red” national tour of 21 cities to showcase new products. “While the X can ride anywhere in the world, the desert is the true spiritual home of this bike.”

Compared with the brand’s popular all-roads Multistrada, Chinnock said, “the Multistrada is on-road bike that can be ridden off-road, the DesertX is an off-road bike that can be ridden on the road.”

That’s the meat-and-potatoes of an Adventure Bike.

The DesertX four-valve 937cc 11-degree L-twin.

The DesertX four-valve 937cc 11-degree L-twin.

DesertX Overview

Italian motorcycle manufacturer Cagiva bought Ducati in 1985 and maintained ownership until 1996.

The stark white with red livery (the only paint scheme available), rally windscreen height, large fuel tank, stubby nose, and dual headlights of the Ducati DesertX borrow badass design cues from the successes of the Cagiva Elefant 906, which competed in the Paris-Dakar Rallies of the 1990s. It was heady times for the small Italian builder.

For the DesertX, Ducati borrowed the four-valve 937cc 11-degree L-twin from the Multistrada V2 with the desmodromic valve system. The engine was given a slight detune to 110 horsepower and 68 foot-pounds of torque to better suit its new off-road bias.

The DesertX gearbox, too, was modified with shortened ratios on gears one through five. First and second gears are especially for low-speed technical dirt work where the slip-assist clutch won’t need to be feathered to maintain balance. Sixth gear remains long for high-speed work on the dry lake beds of Baja California or urban pavement. A quick shifter is standard as well as cruise control.

The optional 2.1-gallon auxiliary fuel tank augments the main 5.5-gallon main tank.

The optional 2.1-gallon auxiliary fuel tank.

DesertX Technologies

Rider-assist technology is ubiquitous today, and DesertX has it deep. A Bosch Sensortec system monitors throttle-by-wire inputs and provides variable intervention for traction, wheelie, and engine braking. It’s common stuff on modern bikes but Ducati adds extra levels.

The DesertX has six riding modes that control the overall response characteristics of the bike. Along with the four self-explanatory standards of Sport, Touring, Urban, and Wet, Ducati has added dedicated modes of Rally and Enduro.

For experienced riders, Rally mode provides full-on 110-hp with minimal electronic interventions. Enduro mode provides 75-hp and more protection for riders with less experience. Engine power can be modified through four levels to match skill level, rider demand, or varying terrain.

The vertical 5-inch instrumentation display is positioned for clear visibility in stand-up riding.

The vertical 5-inch instrumentation display is positioned for stand-up riding.

Riding Features

DesertX lighting is full LED and the 5-inch color gauge display is oriented vertically for better viewing while standing. Three data-screen displays are available to provide custom information chosen for particular rider needs.

Braking is by Brembo, front and rear. Fronts are dual four-piston 320mm radial mounts while the rear is a single 265mm two-piston setup. Bosch Variable ABS Cornering controls and enhances snappy, rear-wheel dirt cornering. It’s primo Ducati engineering.

Rather than pulling stock from current production, the steel-tube trellis frame and aluminum swing-arm were developed specifically for off-road use. Kayaba provided the three-way adjustable suspension with bounteous travel of 9.06 inches front and 8.66 inches rear. Ground clearance is 9.8 inches. The seat is tall at 34 inches, but it can be lowered with a kit.

Rims are flange-spoked and tubeless, a 21-inch front and an 18-inch rear. A larger front hoop typically climbs off-road obstacles easier while transmitting less shock to chassis, suspension, and rider. It’s good dirt stuff. Ducati claims the 21-inch front is the first on a production bike since the 1970s.

Ducati homologated three tire choices, two from Pirelli and one from Metzler. Also, the aftermarket availability of 21- to 18-inch rubber is broad. Stock tires on the DesertX are Pirelli Scorpions.

The 21-inch front wheel is the first on a production bike since the 1970s, Ducati says.

The 21-inch front wheel is the first on a production bike since the 1970s, Ducati says.

 Accessories

Ducati has developed around 50 DesertX accessories, including crash protection, electronics, various trim levels, luggage, and extra racks. Here are a few of the options:

  • Aluminum panniers (2), $1,400 and $800 for the top case. The three hard-shell cases add a voluminous 117-liter capacity for the world traveler’s appearance;
  •  Two exhaust choices by Temignoni;
  •  A rear-mounted auxiliary 2.1-gallon fuel tank, $1,500. It augments the standard 5.5 U.S. gallons main tank with the push of a button;
  •  Heated grips ($388) and a center stand ($320).

The list of accessories can be found here.

The double front LED headlight has two bi-function poly-ellipsoidal modules

The double LED headlight has two bi-function poly-ellipsoidal modules.

Ducati DesertX Pricing

The new Ducati DesertX, first seen as a concept in 2019, will be in showrooms in June.

Competing with the Honda Africa Twin, BMW GS, and the Husqvarna Norden 901, Ducati has priced the DesertX dead center in the pack. U.S. pricing is expected to start at around $16,795 before options.

Learn more about DesertX here.

The DesertX has a long-stroke Kayaba suspension and generous off-roading ground clearance of 9.8 inches.

The DesertX has a long-stroke suspension and ground clearance of 9.8 inches.

Why Buy the Ducati DesertX?

Adventure bikes have changed the motorcycle landscape much like SUVs have done to the passenger-car market. They both promise adventure without limits by putting the off-road within reach. However, like SUVs, many ADVs rarely get used off road.

The Ducati DesertX is gorgeous in white, the shape is sexy, the technology is stunning. It’s a Ducati, and I am not immune to that virus. I just don’t have the skills to exploit it.

I’ll take mine with road tires, please. And I can at least dream of Abu Dhabi.

Joe Michaud is a San Diego-based motorcycle rider and restorer. Send him an email at jmichaud@san.rr.com.

A rider in the desert on the Ducati

The Ducati DesertX was developed from the ground up to go off-road.

Ducati DesertX Specifications

Style: 2 position adventure bike with tubular steel trellis frame

POWERTRAIN

Engine: 937cc Ducati Testastretta 11-degree, L-Twin cylinders, Desmodromic valvetrain, 4 valves per cylinder, liquid-cooled

Power: 110-hp at 9,250 rpm; 68 lb.-ft. torque at 6,500 rpm

Fuel injection: Bosch electronic, 53mm throttle bodies with ride-by-wire system

Exhaust: Stainless steel single muffler, catalytic converter, and 2 lambda probes

Transmission: 6-speed

Clutch: Slipper and self-servo wet multiplate clutch with hydraulic control

Fuel economy: NA

SUSPENSION

Front: KYB 46mm upside-down fork, fully adjustable; wheel travel, 9.1 inches; cross-spoked and tubeless wheel, 2.15 by 21 inches; Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR 90/90 tires, 21-inch M+S

Rear: KYB monoshock, fully adjustable, remote preload adjustment, aluminum double-sided swingarm; wheel travel, 8.66 inches; cross-spoked and tubeless wheel, 4.5 by 18 inches; Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tire, 150/70 18-inch M+S

BRAKING

Front: 2 320mm aluminum flange semi-floating discs, radial-mount Brembo monobloc 4-piston calipers, Bosch Cornering ABS

Rear: 265mm disc, Brembo floating 2 piston caliper, Bosch cornering ABS

WEIGHTS

Dry weight: 445 pounds

Wet weight: 492 pounds

BY THE NUMBERS

Fuel tank: 5.5 gallons

Seat height: 34.4 inches

Cargo capacity: almost 4.1 cubic feet (120 liters) including bags and aluminum top case

Wheelbase: 63.3 inches (1,608mm)

FEATURES

Standard equipment includes: Riding modes, power modes, Ducati Wheelie Control, engine brake control, Ducati Quick Shift up/down, cruise control, full LED lighting system, DRL, Ducati brake light, USB power port, 12-volt socket, self-canceling turn indicators, steering damper

Optional features include: Ducati Multimedia System, antitheft system, turn by turn navigation via the app, fog lights, heated grips, auxiliary fuel tank

Safety features include: Ducati Safety Pack of cornering ABS and traction control

PRICING

Base price: $16,795

Where assembled: Bologna, Italy

WARRANTY AND MAINTENANCE

Warranty: 24 months, unlimited mileage

Maintenance service intervals: 9,000 miles or 24 months

Valve clearance check: 18,000 miles

Subaru launches pet accessories line

Subaru launches pet accessories line
Subaru pet accessories, with a dog on a cargo-area mat.

The cargo-area mat has thick padding and a durable polyester shell. (Photos courtesy of Subaru)

 

BY MARK MAYNARD

Just in time for summer road-trip adventures, Subaru of America, Inc., has announced the launch of a new line of pet accessories to keep pets comfortable and safe while on the road with their owners. There are 11  items in the collection that have been designed by experts to maximize pet comfort.

“Protecting pets is a key component of our Subaru Loves Pets commitment, and that includes protecting pets on the road,” said Accessories Director Joe Daugherty, Subaru of America, Inc. “At Subaru, we know that pets are part of the family, and as our owners head out for warmer weather adventures with furry friends in tow, we want to keep them safe and comfortable for the ride.”

Subaru pet accessories show a dog on a covered back seat.

Pet-friendly gear and accessories for Subaru vehicles provide safe and comfortable travel for owners’  furry companions on road trip adventures.

Subaru pet accessories dog ramp.

The aluminum and plastic Pet Ramp supports pets up to 220 lbs. 

Subaru pet accessories dog ramp folded.The accessories are available at Subaru Parts Online and at Subaru dealerships nationwide.

The product lineup 

Padded cargo liner $250;

Padded seat protector $230;

Rear seat covers $200;

Console lid protector $50;

Collapsible kennels $160-$180;

Foldable ramp $300;

Pet harnesses by Sleepypod, in four sizes, $75-$95;

Pet carrier and mobile pet bed by Sleepypod ($200);

Travel bowls by Sleepypod, $30-$40, allows owners to freeze water in the base to keep water cool and wet food fresh while traveling;

Rear bumper protector mat $70;

Pet lover license plate frames $35.

Subaru pet accessories of a small dog harness.

 Pet harnesses are available in sizes of small, medium, large and extra-large

Sleepypod products meet the highest standards for safety to reduce pet exposure to possible hazards, Michael Leung, Sleepypod co-founder and lead product designer, said in the release.

Sleepypod harnesses and pet carriers are put through dynamic crash testing at the standard set for child safety restraints, Leung said.

Many of the accessories can work with other vehicles. However, some products are made for specific Subaru models.

Learn more about how Subaru Loves Pets, at subaru.com/pets and follow #SubaruLovesPets.

Moab Easter Jeep Safari

Moab Easter Jeep Safari

Annual Moab Easter Jeep Safari is a showcase of new Jeep-brand concept vehicles and Jeep Performance Parts

The Jeepster Beach concept vehicle

The Jeepster Beach maintains the outward appearance of a 1968 Jeepster Commando, it shares the foundation of a 2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon. (Photos courtesy of Jeep)

BY MARK MAYNARD

It’s Easter and Jeep is leading its disciples to a sermon on the off-roader’s mount at the rocky trails around Moab, Utah. Enthusiasts from all over the world will make the pilgrimage from March 27 to April 4, 2021, for an extended holiday week of trail rides and technical off-roading on some of the most challenging and picturesque terrain.

Also on the to-do list is to get a first look at this year’s crop of concept vehicles especially blessed for this sacred occasion.

“The Moab Easter Jeep Safari has long been our testing ground for both our newest Jeep 4x4s and for showcasing new Jeep-brand concepts, Jeep Performance Parts and ideas that truly resonate with our most passionate customers — the die-hard off-road enthusiasts who attend this event every year,” said Jim Morrison, vice president, Jeep Brand North America.

The Safari

The Jeep Safari was started in 1967 by the Moab Chamber of Commerce as a one-day trail ride. Over the years, as participation grew, the Safari expanded until it finally reached the current nine-day event. “Big Saturday” remains the culmination of the event on the Saturday of Easter weekend.

Today, the Easter Jeep Safari is hosted by Moab’s Red Rock 4-Wheelers four-wheel-drive club, which leads trail rides and some daylong trips.

The Concept Vehicles

This year, the Jeep design, performance, and engineering teams have developed seven concept vehicles that showcase an array of advanced and potent powertrains. The pinnacle might be the first battery-electric vehicle from Jeep, the Wrangler Magneto. It represents a milepost on the brand’s “Road Ahead” to becoming the greenest SUV brand.

The 2021 Easter Jeep Safari concept vehicles:

Jeep Magneto

The Jeep Magneto concept

The exterior of the battery-electric concept features a Bright White color with Surf Blue accents.

Factory engineers and designers have created a zero-emission vehicle with Jeep 4×4 capability that provides new levels of efficiency, environmental responsibility, and performance on- and off-road.

Based on a two-door 2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, the Jeep Magneto uses a custom-built axial flux electric motor that operates up to 6,000 rpm. The e-motor is connected to a six-speed manual transmission, which makes it a unique manual-electric powertrain with a clutch that operates as it would with an internal combustion engine. In quick-shift scenarios, the e-motor engages regen upon clutch engagement to prevent rev-hang.

Comparable in power and driving experience to the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6, the compact e-motor is tuned to deliver up to 273 foot-pounds of torque and 285 horsepower. During moderate driving, the performance difference between the V-6 and the Magneto’s manual-electric powertrain is negligible except for near-silent operation, the engineers say.

When more acceleration is needed, the e-motor delivers all 273 lb.-ft. of torque without the need to build up revolutions per minute. The Magneto concept runs 0-60 mph in 6.8 seconds.

A rear view of the Jeep Magneto along a truck trail

At the rear are a redesigned tailgate and Surf Blue truck bed liner.

Powering the Jeep Magneto’s e-motor are four battery packs with a combined power of 70 kWh, running an 800-volt system. The lithium-ion batteries are distributed around the Wrangler to balance weight on the four wheels. One pack replaces the Wrangler’s midship fuel tank, another is mounted opposite the fuel tank location, the third pack sits atop the e-motor under the hood and the fourth pack mounts in the space normally used for a rear storage compartment, also using space typically occupied by the exhaust muffler.

An inverter derived from race cars converts DC power to AC for the motor. The batteries, a vehicle interface box and the battery control module are all contained in waterproof enclosures to maintain the Wrangler’s 30-inch water-fording ability.

A 12-volt battery powers existing systems, such as for the radio and lighting. A second 12-volt battery powers the accessories, such as the winch. A DC-to-DC converter charges both 12-volt batteries, allowing long-term operation of accessories to power a campsite or an unexpectedly long winch operation.

Special mounts secure the battery packs for harsh driving and custom skid plates protect the battery packs from potential strikes to the undercarriage while traversing harsh terrain.

Because the Magneto is a concept, a driving range was not released. But the 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid is on sale now. It integrates two electric motors and a 400-volt battery pack with a turbocharged, four-cylinder engine and TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission for up 25 miles of electric-only range and nearly 400 miles of total range.

The exterior of the Magneto features Bright White paint with Surf Blue accents, a heavy-duty performance hood with center scoop, redesigned rear gate and full-width forward lighting. The interior design centers on Custom Royal Blue and Black leather seats with Sapphire-colored inserts and straps, Surf Blue truck-bed liner and Mopar slush mats.

Body work includes a JPP 2-inch lift kit, 17-inch Lights Out black metallic wheels with 35-inch mud-terrain tires, custom roll cage, Mopar Rock Rails, steel bumpers with a Warn winch and a steel belly pan.

Jeepster Beach

This resto-mod update of a 1968 Jeepster Commando is based on a 2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon.

This year’s “Resto-Mod” is a throwback to the second-generation Jeepster. Originally designed around the growing interest in leisure time use of 4×4 vehicles, the Jeepster Commando was the first compact four-wheel-drive vehicle with an automatic transmission and, unlike the Jeep CJs of its day, it had modern amenities, such as doors, roll-up side glass, a heater and roof.

Low-back bucket seats are trimmed in red leather.

While the Jeepster Beach maintains the outward appearance of a 1968 Jeepster Commando (C-101), it shares the foundation of a 2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon.

Under the hood, its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a custom, concept calibration increases the engine output about 25 percent above the production version to 340 horsepower and 369 lb.-ft. of torque. The direct-injection engine uses a twin-scroll, low-inertia turbocharger with a dedicated cooling circuit for the turbocharger, intake air and throttle. An eight-speed automatic transmission mated to a 4:1 transfer case delivers power to 35-inch tires.

The rear seat was replaced with a chrome, four-point safety cage and the carpets were removed to make cleaning out sand a breeze.

The modified body and original chrome trim are set off by a two-tone paint scheme of Hazy IPA and Zinc Oxide. The custom interior features low-back bucket seats trimmed in red leather. The rear seat was replaced with a chrome, four-point safety cage and the carpets were removed for easy clean-up.

Jeep Red Bare

The Jeep Red Bare Gladiator Rubicon concept is powered by the turbocharged 260-hp, 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 engine.

Powering the Red Bare concept is the turbocharged 260-hp, 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 engine, rated at 442 lb.-ft. of torque. To handle greater torque loads, the EcoDiesel V-6 connects to a TorqueFlite 8HP75 eight-speed automatic transmission, calibrated for low rpm shifts.

The Red Bare’s interior features custom Katzkin black leather seats with red stitching and custom red flannel inserts.

The Red Bare features Dana 44 front and rear heavy-duty axles that have been upgraded with 4.88 axle ratios for rigorous maneuvers — and an impressive 91:1 crawl ratio to tackle the toughest climbs.

The Fire Cracker Red paint contrasts with Matte Black graphics and gold accents. The hood and cowl pieces are from the capable Mojave model with a special hood graphic and Matte Black seven-slot grille insert.

Gear is contained with a bed cover and rack system.

The interior incorporates custom Katzkin black leather seats with red stitching and red flannel inserts. The instrument panel has been wrapped in the same red flannel and the bed-liner floors are color-matched and protected by Mopar slush mats.

The concept was upfitted with a JPP 2-inch lift kit, 17-inch Matte Black wheels with 37-inch BFG mud-terrain tires, cargo bed-mounted sport bar, JPP Sand Slider rock rails, bed cover and rack system, factory steel bumpers with a Warn winch and front bumper grille guard.

Jeep Orange Peelz

Based on a two-door Wrangler, the Orange Peelz has JPP half doors and a removable one-piece Freedom Top glass sunroof.

Based on a two-door Wrangler, the Orange Peelz concept builds on the Wrangler’s open-air heritage with prototype JPP half doors and a custom removable one-piece Freedom Top glass sunroof.

Off-road capability is enhanced with a JPP 2-inch lift kit with FOX. Just below the concept steel “high-top” fender flares are 17-inch JPP beadlock-capable aluminum wheels riding on 37-inch BF Goodrich KM3 mud-terrain tires with Mopar valve-stem caps with the Jeep logo.

The concept hood features black Mopar hood latches with the Jeep Willys logo and is flanked by JPP 5-inch off-road LED lights mounted at the base of the A-pillars, each providing 4,800 lumens of bright white light. The windshield is protected against chips and cracks with Corning Gorilla Glass, a factory-backed Mopar option.

The interior has an orange and plaid theme throughout. 

A custom JPP Rubicon steel bumper includes a prototype 2-inch steel grille guard and the exclusive JPP 8,000-pound capacity Rubicon Warn winch. Custom rock rails provide protection and durability for serious off-roading.

The interior has such upgrades as JPP grab handles, plaid trim on the armrests, upper and lower seat inserts, matching orange on the mid-instrument stack and orange accent stitching on the steering wheel, shifter boots and parking-brake handle.

Steel “high-top” fender flares protect 17-inch JPP beadlock-capable aluminum wheels riding on 37-inch BF Goodrich KM3 mud-terrain tires.

Standard Mopar all-weather floor mats have deep rigid sidewalls and reservoir systems to help contain snow, water and spilled beverages.

The Jeep Orange Peelz concept is powered by the 285-hp, 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 with and 260 lb.-ft. of torque, mated to a TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission. The powertrain is upgraded with a JPP cold-air intake and JPP cat-back exhaust system.

Jeep Farout

The Farout Concept is intended to be a true overlanding vehicle with a long-range-capable 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 engine.

An encore to the 2019 Wayout concept, the Jeep Farout is a true overlanding vehicle that leverages the 2021 Jeep Gladiator’s long-range-capable 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6.

The main feature is a neatly contained, customized deployable Adventure Trails Overland Equipment Habitat Truck Topper. At 16 feet long by 7.5-feet tall, the recreational residence opens and retracts in a matter of seconds. Once unpacked, it comfortably sleeps up to four. An integrated roof-rack system provides additional cargo capacity.

The Farout’s wood-lined interior features ambient lighting, a fully functional refrigerator and stove, plus hanging storage racks, built-in seats and table space. Inside the customized cab, an outdoors theme is emphasized with dark smoke blue leather, orange stitching and plaid flannel seat inserts.

This overlander is reinforced with a JPP 2-inch lift kit, 37-inch mud-terrain tires and  front and rear rock rails and FOX shocks.

The exterior features a new Earl body color with Chartreuse accents on the hood, rear tailgate tow hooks, springs, badging and shocks. Its rugged stance is reinforced with a JPP 2-inch lift kit, 17-inch matte charcoal rims, 37-inch mud-terrain tires, a modified Gladiator Rubicon steel bumper equipped with a 12,000-pound Warn winch, custom front and rear rock rails and FOX performance shocks.

The third-generation turbocharged 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 engine, available in the production Gladiator, is capable of more than 425 miles of driving range.

Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392

The 485-hp, V8-powered Wrangler Rubicon 392 Concept isn’t too far off from the production version, which goes on sale this spring.

The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392 is making its way to production, but it was first conceived as this V-8 powered Wrangler Rubicon concept. The heart of the Wrangler Rubicon 392 is its 485-hp, 6.4-liter (392-cubic-inch) V-8 engine, generating 475 lb.-ft. of torque. Nearly 75 percent of this naturally aspirated engine’s peak torque is available just above engine idle speed, for unhesitating climbing force.

The boisterous persona of this modified four-door 2020 Wrangler Rubicon is activated by a dual-mode performance exhaust. Other extras include a performance hood with center scoop, custom-built half doors and Sky One-touch power top with removable side panels for flow through air flow.

The concept’s Granite Crystal paint is accented with bronze-tone tow hooks, badging, springs and shocks. The interior has Oxblood Red leather seats with gold stitching.

The concept is a power crawler with a JPP 2-inch lift kit with 17-inch beadlock wheels and 37-inch mud-terrain tires.

To help navigate treacherous terrain and challenging off-road conditions, additional upgrades include a JPP 2-inch lift kit, custom 17-inch beadlock wheels with 37-inch mud-terrain tires, Mopar Rock Rails, steel bumpers with Warn winch and steel belly pan.

The production version of the Wrangler Rubicon 392 launch edition  goes on sale this spring. Pricing starts at $74,995 including the $1,495 freight charge from Toledo, Ohio.

Jeep Top Dog

The Gladiator Top Dog is a power rig for serious mountain bikers.

Using exclusive JPP and custom accessories, Mopar designers transformed a 2020 Gladiator into a work station for serious mountain bikers.

Painted K-9 Blue, the Top Dog treatment removed the standard cargo box and replaced it with a custom PCOR (Patriot Campers Off Road) flatbed storage system.

On the passenger side, pull-out drawers can be used to store tools. within easy reach are interior storage shelves, exterior lighting switches and extra power supplies.

On the driver’s side of the storage is a battery-powered refrigerator and electric hot dog roller grill.

On the driver’s side are a battery-powered refrigerator and electric hot dog roller grill.

Above the cab area, two Rhino rack structures provide additional storage space for tools and equipment. Dual exterior task lights are mounted on each side and a set of traction mats for vehicle recovery and extraction are also attached to the storage racks.

On top of the rack structure, a dual-bike rack provides a safe way to transport the Trek mountain bikes. Just above the rear-facing winch, a roll-out storage drawer carries a foldable ladder to access to the bike rack.

For off-road prowess, the Top Dog features a JPP 2-inch lift kit with FOX shocks, augmented by 17-inch JPP beadlock-capable aluminum wheels and 37-inch BF Goodrich KM3 mud-terrain tires. Concept steel “high-top” fender flares provide additional clearance at all four corners.

The powertrain is a 285-hp, 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 with 260 lb.-ft. of torque mated to a TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission.

At the front end is a JPP Rubicon bumper that holds a 2-inch steel grille guard and JPP 8,000-pound-capacity Rubicon Warn winch, which includes 100 feet of Spydura synthetic rope. A second JPP Warn winch was added at the rear.

At the rear of the Top Dog is a second JPP Warn winch and a roll-out storage drawer with a foldable ladder to access the bike rack.

The concept hood is accented with black Mopar hood latches with the Jeep Willys logo. A JPP snorkel helps direct cool air into the engine when off-road conditions threaten normal air inlets. Additional nighttime trail illumination is provided by a pair of JPP 5-inch, off-road, LED lights installed at the base of the A-pillars.

Body sides are protected by JPP rock rails, customized with welded 2-inch steel tubes, similar to the front grille guard design.

The cabin of the Top Dog features a healthy dose of K-9 Blue accents. The black interior is accented with K-9 Blue bezels, stitching on the black Katzkin leather seats, armrests, shifter boots, steering wheel and the parking brake handle.

Jeep Performance Parts

Created in 2012 and offered by Mopar for the Jeep brand, Jeep Performance Parts (JPP) provide high-end, hard-core quality aftermarket accessories and performance parts.

The portfolio of factory-backed, quality-tested parts includes axles, lift kits, bumpers, winches, skid plates, suspension components, and more. The products are created in close conjunction with the Jeep brand, engineering and product design-office teams for development, testing and validation. Strict standards and factory-exclusive data — information not available to the aftermarket — are used to integrate performance parts and accessories to deliver proper fit, finish and quality right down to the color, grain and appearance of each product.

To see the full line of Jeep Performance Parts, visit mopar.com/jpp.

The Greening of the Airstream ‘Silver Bullet’

The Greening of the Airstream ‘Silver Bullet’

Airstream travelers can join the Caravan to Carbon Neutral campaign to help fund tree planting in national forests

An Airstream 'Silver Bullet'

Airstream will directly underwrite the planting of an estimated 118,405 trees by the National Forest Foundation. (Airstream)

BY MARK MAYNARD

The community of Airstream travelers heading out to the great outdoors can now have more confidence in their commitment to the environment and the preservation of wildlands. Through its Caravan to Carbon Neutral campaign, the maker of the iconic “silver bullet” travel trailers and motor homes will fund tree planting in national forests. And the two-pronged approach will encourage Airstream owners to do the same with the purchase of a Carbon Reduction Kit from the National Forest Foundation.

Caravan to Carbon Neutral is an industry-first initiative to neutralize estimated carbon emissions created by use of the company’s products, Airstream President and CEO Bob Wheeler, said in a statement.

The community of Airstream travelers has a symbiotic relationship with nature and the environment, Wheeler, said. “This program brings an innovative solution to Airstreamers who want to neutralize their estimated carbon footprint from driving their Airstream and contribute to a more beautiful natural world.”

“When people travel with their Airstream, it keeps them more in touch with nature and humanity. This raises their awareness of the importance of having a healthy environment.” — Airstream owner

Airstream to Underwrite Tree Planting

The Ohio-based company will directly underwrite the planting of an estimated 118,405 trees by the National Forest Foundation. Those trees are projected to help sequester the estimated carbon generated by the first year of driving of all new Airstream travel trailers and touring coaches manufactured in 2021, Wheeler said in the statement. That figure also includes the estimated carbon emitted during the manufacturing and transportation of Airstreams from the Jackson Center, Ohio, production facility to dealerships nationwide in 2021.

Nearly every Airstream owner asked — 96 percent — in a 2020 owner survey is concerned about the state of the environment. Said one survey participant: “When people travel with their Airstream, it keeps them more in touch with nature and humanity. This raises their awareness of the importance of having a healthy environment.”

Airstream travelers

Airstream travelers can purchase Carbon Reduction Kits to support the National Forest Foundation’s tree-planting program. (Airstream)

The estimated 118,405 trees required to sequester the targeted carbon was calculated from Airstream sales forecasts for 2021.

Contributors to the findings include the company’s internal customer usage study; greenhouse gas equivalency calculators by the Environmental Protection Agency; federal fuel-efficiency estimates for gasoline-powered vehicles; publicly reported estimates from Mercedes-Benz; an Airstream aerodynamics study; and tree carbon sequestration estimates from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Carbon Reduction Kits

Caravan to Carbon Neutral also allows any Airstream owner to help sequester additional carbon emissions through the purchase of “Carbon Reduction Kits” from the National Forest Foundation through Airstream’s e-commerce website, Airstream Supply Co. Each Carbon Reduction Kit purchase is tax-deductible, with 100 percent of the proceeds directly supporting the forest foundation’s tree-planting program:

Silver ($50): plants 50 trees to sequester approximately 25 tons of carbon over the tree’s lifetime;

Gold ($100): plants 100 trees to sequester approximately 50 tons of carbon over the tree’s lifetime;

Platinum ($250): plants 250 trees to sequester approximately 125 tons of carbon over the tree’s lifetime.

Included with the purchase of a kit will be custom decals, flags to display on their Airstream, and a badge. Learn more at AirForums.com, an online resource for Airstream owners.

“We are dedicated to leaving our natural world better than we found it,” said Wheeler, who is an executive committee member on the board of directors for the non-profit National Forest Foundation.

“Addressing the causes of climate change is central to that mission,” he said. “Transportation accounts for an estimated 28 percent of greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S., so this is an area where we have a responsibility and an opportunity to lead. Research shows that RV vacations can produce less carbon as compared to similar airline, rental car, or hotel itineraries. But we felt that we needed to do more.”

This program provides an opportunity for Airstream travelers to get involved and give back by planting trees to support national forests for future generations, Mary Mitsos, National Forest Foundation president and CEO, said in the statement.

The carbon sequestration initiative opens a new frontier in Airstream’s efforts to reduce its overall environmental impact. Other efforts include that the electricity at the company’s production facility in Ohio is offset by renewable energy credits purchased through Jackson Center Municipal Power’s EcoSmart Choice program.

Certified Green Program

In addition, Airstream vehicles are Certified Green by TRA Certification, Inc., a third-party rating based on resource consumption, energy efficiency, water efficiency, and indoor air quality during the manufacturing process.

Airstream is also developing new concepts and partnering with global experts to reduce the resources used while camping, whether at a campsite or off the grid.

The company continues to focus on sustainable travel, including ways to make it easier for electric vehicles to tow an Airstream and further electrification of all of Airstream’s travel trailers.

For more information on the Caravan to Carbon Neutral initiative or Airstream, please visit the company’s social responsibility website.