On January 29th, The Guinness Book of World Records officially recognized Zietlow's efforts with the Touareg as being the
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| On January 29th, The Guinness Book of World Records officially recognized Zietlow's efforts with the Touareg as being the highest elevation reached by a stock vehicle at 6,080 m (19,950 ft). (Photo: Volkwagen Canada) |
highest elevation reached by a stock vehicle at 6,080 m (19,950 ft). Since that time, the altitude record has been broken, by a Toyota Land Cruiser with modified suspension (no less), one of the most popular vehicles for high altitude expeditions. Its suspension modifications yielded greater ground clearance and enhanced rock-climbing abilities, allowing the Toyota to set a new record of 6,357 m (20,859 ft). The Touareg still holds the title for the highest altitude attained by a stock vehicle. With less than 350 m (1,150 ft) between the two records, Zietlow plans on returning to re-establish the record.
