Author name: DJ Henderson

Mopar Jeep, Ram Concepts

Auto Tech / /

Mopar Performance has released several teaser images for the concepts that it will bring to the event. Mopar—the parts, service, and customer care division for the U.S. brands now under the Stellantis umbrella—provided five shadowy sketches, although its not clear whether the company will create five concepts or if some of the images depict the same vehicle.

Hybrid Wrangler Rubicon

mopar sema teaser

STELLANTIS

The first image shows a Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, and it seems to be the 4xe hybrid variant due to the “e”-branded charging port just behind the “Rubicon” graphic. An auxiliary light can be seen mounted on the hood, and a Jeep Performance Parts badge suggests this 4xe will be decked out with off-road goodies.Ram TRX

mopar sema teaser

STELLANTIS

The next sketch shows a Ram pickup, and judging by the grille design and vent on the far edge of the headlight, this is the 702-hp Hellcat-powered TRX. It is not immediately clear what will be different about this TRX other than the blue-painted tow hooks and Ram badging.Military-Style Restomod

mopar sema teaser

STELLANTIS

Mopar will also be bringing a retro Jeep to SEMA, with this teaser showing a 1960s Jeep Gladiator (although very early Wagoneers shared the narrow grille). This old-school Jeep is painted in a military-style green and is fitted with a grille guard, three spotlights, and a flat bumper with “B33RM3” just barely visible on one side. It could be a restomodded M715 military truck, as that vehicle’s front end looks similar to the Gladiator’s.Wrangler Overlander

mopar sema teaser

STELLANTIS

Mopar will bring another Jeep Wrangler to SEMA, with this sketch showing an interior shot of a four-door model. This image is very dark, but we can spot a special raised roof with a series of thin windows, suggesting some sort of camping or overlanding-related concept.Ram on a Camping Trip

mopar sema teaser

STELLANTIS

The last teaser shows another Ram pickup, this time parked next to a tent and featuring some sort of storage rack in the bed. It isn’t clear which model of Ram pickup this is, although it is missing the typical TRX text normally emblazoned on the rear fender, suggesting it is a less powerful version of the 1500.

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2020 Volkswagen Passat – Too Good to Be True?

Auto Tech / /

The all new 2020 Volkswagen Passat not only is sporting a new look, more technology, and improved safety equipment but rather it is packing all of this into a price that actually is cheaper than the 2019 model it replaces? What? Did we say that right? Yes, we did.

The 2020 VW Passat starts at $22,995 in the states (not including the destination and handling fees) which makes it $2,300 more affordable than the model it replaces, the 2019 VW Passat which is still available at the time of this post on VW’s site starting at $25,295.

Like many generations on the Audi/VW platform oftentimes do, the new 2020 Passat does inherit some parts of the prior generation. The engine remains the same as the 2.0L engine from the previous 2019 model which puts out 174 horsepower. Torque however is improved to 206lbs due to the improved torque converter and software upgrade. Only China will see the new MQB platform.


Source: Car and Driver

Source: Car and Driver

As far as styling goes, the new 2020 Passat gets a sleek new front fascia featuring LED headlights, a rear that is revised with matching LED tails, and the option to run 17, 18, or 19-inch wheel options depending on the submodel.


Source: Car and Driver

Despite not getting the MQB platform here in the United States, the all-new 2020 Passat may not be the best option for a performance enthusiast but for a daily driver or family sedan, this can be an attractive option to add to your fleet.

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Unitronic ECU / TCU Software – MQB Tiguan

Auto Tech / /

Unitronic has just released their long-anticipated ECU and TCU software for the MQB Volkswagen Tiguan equipped with the 2.0 TSI Gen3B engine.

Outputs of up to +62hp/+88LB-FT with the stage 1+ ECU tune on 93 octane putting the maximum total to 249hp / 304LB-FT for this compact SUV.

Compatible with their UniConnect+ cable these tunes can be flashed from the comfort of home within minutes.

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Volkswagen ID 4 – All-Electric SUV

Auto Tech / /

It’s been almost 5 years since the diesel gate issue and Volkswagen is putting some serious bets on the all-electric market. Yesterday debuted the all-new Volkswagen ID4 which is an all-electric SUV with a 250-mile range and sub $40,000 price tag.

Source: VW.com

Built on the all-new modular electric vehicle platform they are dubbing MEB and claiming they will move 1 million battery electric vehicles by 2025 as they are investing heavily into the all-electric market.

Priced to be a high volume mass-market offering which although sitting at sub $40,000 when you factor in the federal tax incentives it brings the cost of ownership down into a pretty competitive range.

With the market already filled with EV options such as the Tesla Model 3, Nissan Leaf, Chevy Bolt, and VW’s e-Golf how will they compete? First off none of the offerings in this price range are SUVs but small size sedans. With EV’s making up around 3% of total car sales in the US, automakers are placing bets on that percent rising as the cost of ownership drops.

Source: VW.com

So what stands out with the new ID4?

The motor in the VW ID4 has 201 horsepower and gets around 228-pound feet torque where the all-wheel-drive variant will produce around 302 hp and be released in late 2021. Both AC and DC charging will be available with stats showing an ID4 can go from 5 to 80% charged in about 38 minutes using a DC charging station. Every ID4 will come with 3 years of free charging courtesy of Electrify America EV.

When it comes to interior design we feel VW has nailed it with a very tech-focused, futuristic-looking design that is clean. Despite being a smaller footprint compared to the Tiguan the interior is the same size. Most notably the lighting stands out in the interior with their all-new ID Light feature. A light strip runs below the windshield and another across the center of the dashboard giving it a very futuristic appeal. But don’t be mistaken the all-new lighting features are not just a “bells and whistles” type of improvement. VW has stated it is an “intuitive lighting” system with different colors and sound to signal to the driver various activities such as when the car has been unlocked or locked.

Source: VW.com

The ID4 is just the beginning of Volkswagen’s push into the all-electric market as they already are making headway in their other brands with Porsche recently debuting their all new Taycan and back in 2018 the Audi E Tron SUV.

So what do you think of this all-new compact SUV? Love it or hate it?

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Beltpin Detachable Belt Loop keeps your outfit looking put together

Body Tech / /

Why bother putting together a nice, clean-cut outfit when the end of your belt is just going to flop out awkwardly? With the Beltpin Detachable Belt Loop, your problems are solved. This is a removable extra belt loop that you can put on your belt to keep the end tied down. But because it comes in two sizes and multiple leather colors, it’ll always match what you’re wearing. In fact, you can choose between the Beltpin Mini, which is great for belts 19–25 mm thick, or the Beltpin Standard for 30–38 mm belts. Additionally, the leather options include cognac, chestnut, brown, and black. Whether you’re at work or enjoying a weekend of leisure, you don’t want your loose belt end bothering you. Beltpin will ensure you never think about it again.

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Nimble 35W Universal Travel Adapter charges your devices exceptionally fast

Gaming/VR Tech / /

Go further while carrying less when you have the Nimble 35W Universal Travel Adapter. Combining all the must-have features of an adapter in one, this small and compact device will be your faithful companion anywhere you go. Capable of powering six devices at once, this 35W travel adapter works in over 150 different countries. Along with the main outlet, Nimble sports three USB ports as well as two USB-C ports. If simply plugging in more conveniently wasn’t enough, Nimble also offers Quick Charge and Power Delivery. With Quick Charge, you can top up your devices efficiently so you can be on your way. With Power Delivery, Nimble can assign power to be given to one device from another, speeding up the charging process. In fact, Nimble can charge an iPhone XS up to 50% in just 30 minutes. And don’t worry; this universal travel adapter is armed with a two-fuse design to handle it all with ease. Even with all this power and convenience, Nimble is impressively compact and packs exceptionally well. Take to the office, your next business trip, or across the world for seamless power.

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New Product: Unitronic Stage 2+ ECU for 1.8TSI MQB

Auto Tech / /

Unitronic has just released their Stage 2+ IS38 ECU performance software for the 1.8TSI MQB engine which can be found in the 2015-2019 Volkswagen Golf, Golf Sportwagen, Golf Alltrack as well as select 2015-2016 Audi A3 models.

We took a look at the gains and they are impressive over stock power figures.

Equipped with the IS38 Turbo upgrade, the 1.8TSI MQB produces 352HP / 324 LB-FT Torque when combined with Unitronic’s Stage 2+ ECU software. These massive gains over stock ( +182HP / +139LB-FT Torque ) surely will knock you back into your seat when you get on the throttle.

On top of the power addition, the tune also offers popular features like left foot braking, exhaust pops, and bangs, and an EU-style Startup-Up Overrun.

For more information please check out:

Unitronic UniConnect+ Tuning Cable

Unitronic Stage 2+ IS38 ECU Tune for 1.8TSI MQB Engines

IS38 Turbocharger Upgrade

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IceBRKR Bone Conduction Audio Ski Mask also has an intercom function

Gaming/VR Tech / /

Don’t let the slopes get in the way of superior audio. Instead, use the IceBRKR Bone Conduction Audio Ski Mask. Armed with bone conduction technology, this ski mask doubles as an audio system so you can listen to anything from playlists to podcasts. Unlike a headset, IceBRKR won’t get in the way of your gear. Instead, it is your gear. Likewise, it means you can still hear what’s going on around you. Along with audio, IceBRKR uses Bluetooth 5.0 technology for seamless phone calls, intercom communication for up to 18 people, and voice activation systems. Plus, with magnetic interchangeable lenses, you can choose the style that suits you on any given day. The lens is also outfitted with an anti-fog aeration system. Along with all this, IceBRKR has bendable arms as well as three layers of foam for the perfect and most comfortable fit.

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Mission8 5-in-1 Filtering Shower Head delivers 3x stronger water pressure

Body Tech / /

Reimagine the way you shower with the Mission8 5-in-1 Filtering Shower Head. This incredible shower solution will revolutionize your shower experience. Mission8 offers three times stronger shower pressure than your current showerhead. With 250 pores, it evenly distributes the water for 1.5 times better coverage. Plus, it features a 99% purity NSF filter which catches contaminants before the water comes out, meaning they won’t come in contact with your body. In addition, you can also use different boosters to help you unwind after a long day or revitalize you before a big day. Saving 17% more water than your current showerhead, Mission8 has two modes. In addition to a traditional overhead flow, you can also use Mission8 in handheld mode for total versatility. All of this incredible technology comes in a beautifully modern aesthetic that is sure to elevate any bathroom.

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Peloton Indoor Exercise Bike gives you an intense home cardio workout

Office Tech / /

Don’t bother with the gym when you can use the Peloton Indoor Exercise Bike to work out at home. This indoor workout bike provides you with a way to fit in serious cardio exercise, even when you don’t have time to leave the house. The Peloton bike gives you access to nearly a hundred live classes per week. So you won’t be watching some boring 80’s workout recording. In fact, the Peloton instructors can even shout out to you in real-time, so you better keep up. If you can’t make a live class, choose from the Peloton library of classes that range from five to 90 minutes in length. You can surely find five minutes to spare for a little sweat. And while the price of the Peloton bike is a little steep, the company offers a monthly financing option that is less expensive than many gym memberships.

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Flamer Windproof Gas-Free Lighter uses a built-in battery for power

Kitchen Tech / /

Let there be light the easier way with the Flamer Windproof Gas-Free Lighter. Featuring an easy to use design, this innovative lighter is actually rechargeable so you can use it again and again. And, because it doesn’t use gas, you never have to deal with refills again. The Flamer has a built-in 400mAh battery inside. With this, you can light the Flamer anywhere from 20 to 40 times. Then, when you need to recharge, you can easily do so with the included micro USB to USB charging cable. Resistant to wind, Flamer gives you a light in just about any condition. Plus, the entire casing is exceptionally hard-wearing. This is all thanks to the real rosewood exterior. This material is super strong while offering a beautiful finish. Measuring under four inches, you can keep the Flamer anywhere you need so it’s always within reach.

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Herbitat Smart Hydroponic Indoor Garden lets you grow your own produce easily at home

Future Tech / /

Easily grow your own fresh, delicious, and nutritious produce at home with the Herbitat Smart Hydroponic Indoor Garden. Featuring a soilless NFT grow system, this smart home garden maximizes plant growth while creating zero mess. As a result, it’s exceptionally easy to plant, grow, and also harvest your plants. With an intelligent system in place, Herbitat features Wi-Fi connectivity as well as integrated nutrient, water, and temperature sensors to know just what your plants need in order to grow. When human intervention is required, you get instantly notified in the app on your smartphone. Because you can control light schedules and access to these smart features, you can grow a variety of plants all in one place. The grow pods are also detachable so you can pull them out for maintenance as needed. In addition to being incredibly easy, Herbitat is also easy on the eyes. The modern and minimalist structure fits in with any interior space while the falling water creates a zen-like growing environment.

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