Torque Staff Report
Welcome to the Seven Slot Dispatch, our weekly aggregation of Jeep news and events from around the automotive landscape. Every week, we’ll be shifting into low range to bring you the latest news, gear drops, and industry moves shaping the Jeep world.
Whether it's fresh concept news from Moab, Utah, new initiatives from Stellantis, a dive into Jeep’s latest model, or a closer look at the community that's been living the Jeep life for decades, you'll find it all here — served up with the same grit and passion that built the brand itself.
Here’s the latest news and information.
Jay Leno Calls the 1942 Ford GPW Jeep ‘The Greatest Vehicle Ever Made’
Classic car icon and gearhead Jay Leno recently put the spotlight on the 1942 Ford GPW Jeep, declaring it his favorite vehicle on his Jay Leno’s Garage series and praising its simplicity, durability and enduring fun factor. Leno’s admiration stems from the Jeep’s rugged design, lightweight construction and historical impact; all qualities that make it as enjoyable to drive today as it was on World War II battlefields.
Leno highlighted the Jeep’s simple yet effective engineering, such as its flathead engine, mechanical brakes, fold-down windshield, and easily accessible components. He said these features helped make it a workhorse for Allied forces and beloved by veterans, farmers and collectors alike. He called it an “original dune buggy,” noting how its off-road capability and ease of maintenance made it both functional and fun across decades.
Beyond its historical importance, Leno emphasized the Jeep’s timeless appeal, recalling how inexpensive surplus GPWs were sold after the war and how they became cherished classics over time. His endorsement blends respect for the Jeep’s wartime legacy with pure enthusiasm for its driving experience, cementing the 1942 Ford GPW’s place in automotive lore.
Michiana Jeep Owners Form ‘Jeep Squad’ to Help Stranded Drivers in Winter Weather
When snowy roads and icy conditions hit Michiana this winter, a local group of Jeep enthusiasts stepped up to lend a hand. Dubbed the ‘Jeep Squad’, this volunteer crew of off-road vehicle owners has been patrolling slick roads, offering free assistance to drivers whose vehicles slide off or become stuck in snow-covered ditches. Michiana is a region in southwestern Michigan and northern Indiana.
The idea started when one member spotted a semi-truck stuck at a busy intersection and rallied fellow Jeep drivers to help pull it out. Since then, the group has made it a winter tradition to respond to calls for help, relying on their collective off-road experience (including decades of automotive know-how) to safely extract stranded motorists.
Using social media to coordinate outings and alert the community, the Jeep Squad emphasizes giving back and supporting neighbors during harsh weather. As winter conditions persist, the group says it’s open to expanding its efforts so even more drivers can get the help they need during tough road conditions.
Quadratec Now Carries Linkswell Audio & Electronics for Jeep Stereo Upgrades
Jeep owners looking to significantly upgrade their in-vehicle audio and multimedia experience now have a powerful new option at Quadratec: Linkswell, a brand backed by over 25 years of automotive electronics engineering.
Linkswell products are designed to feel and function like factory-installed components while adding modern features like large Android-based touchscreens, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto support, Bluetooth connectivity and enhanced audio performance. The brand then tailors the systems to Jeep dashboards with vehicle-specific fitment.
At Quadratec, the Linkswell lineup includes multimedia T-Style radios and stereos specifically built for Wrangler and Gladiator models, along with handy accessories like HDMI input adapters, USB dash cams, and rear camera interfaces which are perfect for anyone who wants advanced features and seamless integration.
Whether you’re replacing a dated factory head unit or outfitting a custom build with modern connectivity and entertainment tech, Linkswell brings premium upgrade options to the Jeep audio and electronics category now available through Quadratec.
