VW Sets Altitude Record with Stock Touareg V6

6,080 Metres (19,950 Feet) Into the Clouds Not Too Shabby for Stock SUV

Diesel cars, hydrogen-powered cars, rotary-powered cars, sport utility vehicles, it seems as if the only numbers that the industry

Volkswagen silently slipped into the record book, claiming a world record by reaching the highest elevation ever for a stock vehicle. (Photo: Volkwagen Canada)

pays attention to aside from sales figures are speed records. So much so, that one important record - an altitude attained - was completely overlooked. This past January, Volkswagen silently slipped into the record book, claiming a world record by reaching the highest elevation ever for a stock vehicle, piloted by German off-road expert Rainer Zietlow.

Zietlow, who has gained his fame for taking stock vehicles to absurdly high altitudes, has reached the pinnacle with his latest record attempt. "My name is [synonymous] with using stock vehicles." He added, "The Touareg we used is exactly what came from the factory, with no modifications." In his years in

German off-road expert Rainer Zietlow gained his fame for taking stock vehicles to absurdly high altitudes. (Photo: Volkswagen Canada)

off-roading, Zietlow has racked up quite the list of partnerships, including one with Mercedes-Benz, with which his team traversed Africa in a stock M-Class, proving the vehicle's off-road capabilities and overall durability.

The Touareg used for the mountainous excursion was a completely stock Expedition model, a unique, special-edition trim level which is not available in North America. On top of the standard fare, which included the likes of a leather- and wood-trimmed interior, the car came equipped with a usable roof rack with storage box, bright spot lamps, additional underbody protection, a locking rear differential, and a winch.