Toyota introduces two new nameplates for the 2024 Tacoma lineup, each wearing its own unique badges. The Trailhunter, designed as a factory-built overlanding vehicle, features a distinct suspension, a bed utility bar, and a snorkel air intake. The TRD PreRunner, reviving the PreRunner nameplate, is a two-wheel-drive off-road trim with bold graphics on the bed.

A 10-speaker JBL sound system upgrade is available for audiophiles, complete with an externally coupled subwoofer that delivers powerful bass. Additionally, the Toyota Tacoma offers the innovative JBL Flex portable speaker. When docked on the dash, it serves as the central speaker and charges, but it can also be removed and used independently, boasting up to six hours of battery life. It can even withstand submersion in water up to three feet.

The tailgate of the Toyota Tacoma boasts a handy feature. An optional power open/close function, typically reserved for full-size trucks, is available for the aluminum tailgate. The Tacoma becomes the only mid-size truck by Toyota to offer this convenience. The powered tailgate can be operated via the key fob, the traditional handle, or a seamlessly integrated rectangular button within the taillights. It even starts raising when given a light push with your knee, making bed loading much easier, especially when your hands are full.

Toyota partnered with Australian off-road expert ARB to develop specialty parts for the Trailhunter. Notably, the Old Man Emu suspension features 2.5-inch forged monotone shocks with external remote reservoirs adorned with ARB’s geometric emu logo. Other all-terrain components, like the steel rear bumper and recovery hooks, proudly display the ARB emblem.

A hidden surprise awaits on the side of the dashboard—a circular trim piece with Morse code that reads “Accessory Ready.” This clever detail alludes to the range of factory extras Toyota plans to offer Tacoma buyers. The Morse code message is visible only when the door is open.

World champion Lewis Hamilton hopes to take part in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on December 13, 2020. There are uncertainties over this participation after he displayed health issues prior to the Sakhir GP in Bahrain.

His case got even more complicated due to the strict health protocols implemented by the United Arab Emirates authorities, which includes a 14-day quarantine for all new arrivals. Fortunately, an exception was made for Formula One under the condition that the entire delegation will travel under controlled conditions before accessing the “bubble” around the race track.

Lewis Hamilton Must Cover the Criteria of Two Government Entities

While Hamilton has the option to travel via private jet, he will still have to obtain a special dispensation from the Abu Dhabi authorities. However, this isn’t the only bureaucratic conundrum that he must solve before being apt to race in 2020’s last Grand Prix.

The British racing driver must also prove to the Bahraini authorities that he is healthy and fit to travel and leave the country. It’s only after he manages to comply with the criteria of both Middle Eastern states that Hamilton will be allowed to race on the Yas Marina Circuit.

Both Mercedes and Williams Are Left in Limbo

This puts the teams of Mercedes and Williams in a complicated position as both need to learn as soon as possible whether Lewis Hamilton will be able to travel and reach the Emirates by Friday, December 12th, so they can decide which car will be driven by George Russell.

If the champion’s car is vacant by Friday, Mercedes can opt to use the services of reserve driver Stoffel Vandoorne until the arrival of Hamilton, and therefore not disturb Russell’s preparations with Williams.

Lewis Hamilton has secured his seventh world title since the Turkish Grand Prix in November. However, his absence from the year’s last competition would leave a sour taste for all Formula One aficionados who would want to see the reigning champion on the track.