Category

Exploration

ARCTIC TRUCKS-BUILT NISSAN ARIYA EV COMPLETES WORLD-FIRST POLE TO POLE VOYAGE

TEST TEST

15.12.2023

TEST TEST

ARCTIC TRUCKS® and Arctic Trucks Polar (logistics subsidiary of the extreme mobility vehicle specialists) are delighted to congratulate ‘Pole to Pole EV’ adventurers, Chris and Julie Ramsey, on the completion of their epic trans-global electric vehicle voyage. Arctic Trucks Polar supplied crucial vehicle, support, planning and logistical services to this groundbreaking expedition.

Starting on the frozen Arctic Ocean in late March 2023 at the historic (1823) Magnetic North Pole, 380 km north east of Cambridge Bay in Larson Sound, Northern Canada, Chris and Julie covered some 30,000 kms through 15 countries over ten months on and off-road through the varied terrains and conditions of North, Central and South America; eventually climbing to Antarctica’s high plateau and reaching their final goal, the geographic South Pole, on 15th December 2023.

The Scottish couple’s Nissan Ariya AT39 e-4ORCE all-wheel drive electric vehicle, extensively re-engineered by Arctic Trucks, is the first vehicle in history to make this rigorous journey, which included freezing Arctic and Antarctic temperatures to scorching desert heat.

The adventurers first approached Arctic Trucks in 2019 with the idea of a Pole-to-Pole electric vehicle expedition, which necessitated significant operational experience and support for the most extreme Arctic and Antarctic phases.

“It was clear that this proposed expedition would require extensive logistical support from our AT44 (44” tire) vehicles and experienced personnel in the Polar regions” said Emil Grímsson, Founder of Arctic Trucks.

The expedition was originally planned to run South to North, starting at the South Pole and ending at the 1996 Magnetic North Pole. However, with the Nissan Ariya only just introduced to the market and the 4×4 version only scheduled to arrive in Europe during September 2022, it was impossible to convert the vehicle in time for the upcoming short Antarctic season. The expedition was therefore rescheduled to commence in the North – and the race was on to make it happen.

Multiple engineering challenges included safely and successfully operating a battery electric vehicle over long-range in the extreme cold (down to -32c), increasing the vehicle’s tire flotation capability by a factor of at least 10 and ensuring the driveline could cope with the significant increase in tire size and weight, whilst still maintaining a low centre of gravity.

Grímsson continued: “We needed to multiply the floatation capabilities of the vehicle by using much larger tires, enabling the vehicle to make this journey under its own power. The size of the tires needed, and extent of the necessary vehicle rebuild also had to balance sufficient capability on both paved roads and the most extreme off-road terrains with maximum range and reliability.”

Arctic Trucks’ engineering team, led by Freyr Þórsson, overcame these challenges to deliver the complete expedition-ready vehicle in less than 4 months, a remarkable feat. Supported by technical information from Nissan, the team worked day and night to develop a highly capable and efficient vehicle setup while retaining most of the original Nissan driveline and suspension, a crucial point to allow easy serviceability during the long drive down through the entire length of the Americas.

Two Ford F-350 AT44 6×6 Arctic Trucks Polar support vehicles were used in the Arctic, with two Toyota Hilux 4×4 AT44s being used in Antarctica, crewed by experienced Arctic Trucks Polar team members, Hlynur Sigurdsson and Johannes Gudmundsson.

“We are hugely proud that the Nissan Ariya AT39 outperformed all expectations, both in terms of capabilities and the standard driveline holding up extremely well throughout the expedition, despite the heavy tires, often rough conditions and long distances involved.” said Emil Grímsson of Arctic Trucks. He continued: “Having previously made 88 trips to the South Pole in the course of our normal activities supporting scientific research and expeditions, this is an extremely special moment. We are delighted for Chris and Julie Ramsey who, in succeeding with this expedition, have showcased new technology. On our part, Arctic Trucks is constantly developing solutions to dramatically improve the efficiencies of our hugely challenging polar operations”.

Messaging from the South Pole, Chris and Julie said: “A huge thank you to Arctic Trucks, our polar support team, you have been incredible, [as well as] all our partners, followers, friends and family who have supported us throughout this mammoth expedition”.

The Transglobal Car Expedition by Good Gear

Custom Pickup Truck Modifications

The team used specialized equipment and carefully planned each step until it successfully executed the lift of the vehicle on August 27, 2022. The operation started with the underwater recovery phase, where experienced cold-water divers had to carefully raise the truck off the ocean floor using airbags, then tow the vehicle, still under the surface, out of the strong current and near to the shore of the island. They then turned the vehicle upright with cables and airbags, then raised it to the surface before pulling it to shore. The vehicle was inspected on land and prepared for airlift by sling.

August 30, 2022
Gjoa Haven, Nunavut, Canada
The Transglobal Car Expedition by GoodGear.org has successfully completed the recovery operation of the Arctic Trucks AT44 F-150 vehicle lost through the ice near the Qikirtat (Tasmania) Islands, Nunavut, on 23 March 2022. The international recovery team of highly experienced personnel worked closely with the regional administrations and local communities, and had the benefit of four Inuit team members in the group of 12 people on the extraction crew.

Coldstream Helicopters’ heavy lift Airbus Super Puma helicopter delivered the Arctic Trucks AT44 F-150 to Gjoa Haven, where it will be made ready for the next available sealift vessel to Montreal. However, with corrosion of the electronics and aluminum components, it is not expected that the vehicle can be salvaged for use.

“This recovery operation was never about getting a truck back. It was about doing the right thing and respecting the land,” said Andrew Comrie-Picard, a Canadian team member. “It was very powerful to see the helicopter carry the truck over the horizon and hear the sudden silence and the water dripping off the ice floes. With one-third of our team being Inuit it was a privilege to have them with us to show us the tent circles and meat caches that went back hundreds of years, on an island that a passing boat would consider uninhabited. It is not. It is the land of their ancestors.” The recovery team left the site in pristine condition, with the determined intentions of preserving the fragile Arctic ecosystem.

The Transglobal Car Expedition by GoodGear.org expresses gratitude to all the participants involved in the operation, including local communities, regional and federal authorities for ensuring safety, managing the risks, and contributing to the successful recovery operation.

Emil Grimsson, Icelandic team member and principal of Arctic Trucks, added “My feeling of seeing the car coming back after five months of preparations and hard work on the extraction gave a sense of completion and is a testament to the ability of expert teamwork to achieve a very, very difficult task. With all our work in Iceland and Antarctica, we always seek to respect the environment, and I’m glad we were able to do that here.”

The parent organization of the Transglobal Car Expedition is the Swiss non-profit GoodGear, which seeks to bring innovative technologies to locations around the world for the betterment of local communities and the advancement of scientific research.
More info. is available at www.transglobalcar.com For comments, questions, or interview requests please contact ops@goodgear.org
All photos and videos credit Transglobal Car Expedition: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1yuTlQ42GFudxHyNvr6pYo2Dn5ADVK1Rx?usp=sharing

Isuzu D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35 Basecamp Supports BFGoodrich at Red Bull Hardline

  • Isuzu D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35 Basecamp supports BFGoodrich at Red Bull Hardline
  • Expedition ready vehicle demonstrates the extreme nature and possibilities of new model
  • Basecamp features everything you need, including roof tent and the kitchen sink!

30th September 2022 – Isuzu UK’s show special D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35, codenamed Basecamp, was recently deployed as a support vehicle in association with BFGoodrich, at Red Bull Hardline, the world’s gnarliest downhill mountain bike race, which returned for the eighth time to Wales’ Dyfi Valley.

Thirty of the world’s best and bravest riders sought to survive Red Bull Hardline’s most challenging course to date. The event was won by Canadian rider, Jackson Goldstone, whose impressive win came over a series of huge jumps, boulder drops and a freeride section that was brand new for 2022. Goldstone finished six and a half seconds ahead of British rivals Joe Smith and Taylor Vernon, who placed second and third respectively.

The expedition-ready Isuzu D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35 Basecamp, which embodies the extreme adventure nature of the Red Bull Hardline event, is built to conquer all types of landscapes and finished in Obsidian Grey with a mainly black colour scheme. The vehicle features a lightweight and versatile iKamper SkyCamp Mini 3.0 rooftop tent which incorporates iKamper’s signature World Map and even a Skyview window. This is mounted to a black aluminium Gearmate hardtop canopy, with solid gullwing side and rear access doors. Inside the load bed, the vehicle is equipped with an ARB Outback Solutions modular roller drawer system, with a durable carpet finish. Along with providing luggage space, the system also incorporates a fridge and a slide-out kitchen unit, which includes a 3-burner gas stove and a 12-litre collapsible sink. The highly capable and rugged expedition vehicle is finished with distinctive 17-inch black Arctic Trucks alloy wheels, fitted with 35-inch BFGoodrich LT315/70 R17 Mud-Terrain tyres.

Arctic Trucks Managing Director, Peter Smith, said: “Basecamp really lived up to its name here! As the most extreme downhill mountain biking event of its kind, Red Bull Hardline presents a demanding challenge, not only for the riders and their bikes but also for the support vehicles. Our extensive re-engineering of the D-Max AT35s body, frame, suspension and drivetrain, combined with the additional equipment, ensured it tackled the mountainous terrain and changeable surface conditions with comfort and ease; providing a perfect base of operations for the entire event, wherever support was needed, up or down the mountain.

Martin Thompson, BFGoodrich Brand Manager, said: “This is a vehicle designed to access even the harshest of terrain, so naturally it’s equipped with our BFGoodrich Mud Terrain tyres, these are our toughest mud terrain tyres ever, providing aggressive traction for on and off-road adventures. These tyres look fantastic on such a standout expedition vehicle!”

Available from £47,999 CVOTR, the Isuzu D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35 is a professionally re-engineered

vehicle incorporating significant enhancements to the body, frame, drivetrain, suspension, and tyres. The new flagship model in the D-Max range retains its commercial vehicle status, with no compromise to payload or towing capacity and comes with Isuzu’s five-year/125,000-mile warranty.

For more information on Red Bull Hardline visit www.redbull.co.uk/hardline

iKamper and Arctic trucks Announce New Partnership

World-renowned extreme vehicle expedition experts Arctic Trucks have just announced an official partnership with award winning mobile camping innovators iKamper.

This new partnership will initially see Arctic Trucks work together with iKamper to widen sales and distribution of iKamper products throughout the UK. This will also include a customer experience area in Arctic Trucks upcoming new showroom facility on the edge of the Cotswolds (opening Autumn ‘22).

Carrim Bundhun, Project & Commercial Development Lead at Arctic Trucks commented:

“Both Arctic Trucks and iKamper share a huge passion for safely and responsibly enjoying the rugged beauty of our natural environment, without being limited by terrain or conditions. iKamper’s innovative approach to developing the very best solutions for every challenge mirrors our own – and we look forward to working together to enable our owners and operators to comfortably ‘Explore Without Limits’, both on and off-road, for many years to come.”

To view iKamper’s range, please visit Arctic Trucks’ webstore at www.arctictrucks.shop/collections/ikamper

 

To arrange an appointment to view iKamper’s products at your nearest location, please contact info@arctictrucks.com

Custom Pickup Truck Modifications

ISUZU UK REVEALS PRICING SPECIFICATION AND RELEASE DATE FOR THE ALL-NEW ISUZU D-MAX ARCTIC TRUCKS AT35

Built as the ultimate off-road performance vehicle, the Isuzu D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35 enhances the renowned D-Max off-road capability, increasing the ground clearance to 266mm at the front and 290mm at the rear, with an approach angle of 35°, a departure angle of 29° and a break over angle of 34°. The combined effect from the enlarged tyres, performance springs and dampers results in a softer, faster ride over rough surfaces and a lighter footprint over delicate terrain, without compromising on-road behaviour.

Millbrook – 26th April 2022 – Isuzu UK is set to open the order books for the All-New Isuzu D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35 on May 3rd 2022, having first previewed the pre-production model at the 2021 Commercial Vehicle Show.

Building on the Award-Winning durability and reliability of the Isuzu D-Max platform, the cool and capable Isuzu D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35 has been developed and engineered to handle the most challenging landscapes with ease while offering a distinctive presence and authentic performance that is noticed everywhere, whether on or off-road. The Isuzu D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35 is a professionally re-engineered vehicle incorporating significant enhancements to the body, frame, drivetrain, suspension, wheels and tyres.

All elements of the D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35 build are undertaken by the Pick-Up Professionals at Isuzu UK and experienced Arctic Trucks technicians to ensure the highest standards of build quality, adherence to all relevant vehicle type approvals and full alignment with Isuzu’s five-year/125,000-mile warranty. Plus, importantly the vehicle also retains its commercial vehicle status, with no compromise to payload or towing capacity.

Taking its name from the 35-inch tyres fitted to the vehicle as standard, the Isuzu D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35’s chassis and bodywork are re-engineered to accommodate its rugged 17-inch matt black alloy wheels and enlarged 315/70 R17 all-terrain tyres. The suspension system is overhauled with an optimised and elevated tailored Bilstein performance suspension system featuring front springs & dampers, rear dampers and additional front and rear body lift, providing a total front and rear elevation of +50mm over the standard D-Max pick-up.

The signature styling of the Isuzu D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35 is enhanced by the extra-wide colour-coded wheel arch extensions, which create additional clearance and amplify the vehicle’s raised stance, whilst conveying a dramatic sense of styling and purpose. The vehicle is also equipped with Arctic Trucks extended profile side steps, strengthened Arctic Trucks mud flaps and a versatile 2-inch rear multifunction receiver hitch, enabling the quick and easy fitment of tow balls, winches, rear-mounted steps and more.

Built on the best-selling Isuzu V-Cross model, the D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35 benefits from an SUV-like level of specification with gunmetal grey exterior styling elements, premium black interior headlining, a nine-inch multimedia system with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto compatibility and an eight-speaker sound system. The leather interior includes the Arctic Trucks branding incorporated on the headrests and further benefits from a wireless mobile phone charge point, Arctic Trucks door entry guards and a premium carpet mat set. The vehicle is finished with Arctic Trucks and AT35 badging throughout the exterior and interior along with dedicated locking wheel nuts and an Arctic Trucks torque wrench.

The Isuzu D-Max boasts class-leading safety standards and achieved the maximum five-star safety rating in the tough new Euro NCAP test. This UK first for a pick-up is in part due to the new Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS) fitted as standard across the range, with every Isuzu D-Max featuring Forward Collision Warning, Traffic Sign Recognition, Manual & Intelligent Speed Limiter, along with Lane Departure Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking as standard.

William Brown, Managing Director, Isuzu UK said: “We are so pleased to launch the Isuzu D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35, having first unveiled the concept at the CV Show last year. This new halo model for the Isuzu range really demonstrates how adaptable and versatile the D-Max platform is, and with the AT35 we showcase how inspiring and extreme the vehicle can be, whilst importantly retaining the full commercial vehicle status, with no compromise to payload or towing capacity.”

Peter Smith, Managing Director, Arctic Trucks UK said: “With the many challenges we have all faced over the past couple of years we are delighted to finally be able to bring the All-New Isuzu D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35 to the market.  We are very proud of what we have developed together with Isuzu UK on this latest generation D-Max which is undoubtedly the best yet.  We are excited that customers will soon be able to order this latest, highly anticipated, highly capable vehicle and it has been great to further strengthen the successful long-standing collaboration between Isuzu UK and Arctic Trucks UK.”

Priced from £47,999 CVOTR and £49,499 CVOTR for a version with automatic transmission, the D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35 is available to order from 3rd May at any Arctic Trucks appointed Isuzu dealership, throughout the UK.

Register for exclusive previews and updates on the Isuzu D-Max AT35 at www.isuzu.co.uk/all-new-isuzu-d-max-arctic-trucks-at35

For further Isuzu D-Max AT35 news, images, and press information, please visit www.isuzumedia.co.uk.

ISUZU D-MAX ARCTIC TRUCKS AT35 PRE-PRODUCTION MODEL BREAKS COVER AT THE COMMERCIAL VEHICLE SHOW

Birmingham – 31st August 2021 – Isuzu UK are proud to display the All-New D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35 pre-production model vehicle at the 2021 Commercial Vehicle Show. The pick-up professionals will be launching this striking addition to their range in Spring 2022, so this really is an exclusive preview. As before the AT35 is an exclusive, robust, serious 4×4 model for off-road enthusiast. The planned official on sale date for this stunning new model is Monday the 14th of February 2022 as customers will fall in love with the 4×4 capabilities of AT35.

Arctic Trucks have years of experience in re-engineering four-wheel drives to create reliable, good quality and durable vehicles. Whether for lifestyle or professional purposes, Arctic Trucks vehicles conquer environments others simply do not account for, enabling owners and operators worldwide to safely, efficiently, and successfully “Explore Without Limits”.

The collaboration between Isuzu UK and Arctic Trucks builds on the award winning All-New D-Max with advanced technology that has been especially developed to handle challenging landscapes. A strengthened chassis, Bilstein Performance Suspension and an All-Terrain Wheel and 35” Tyre Package offer confidence when driving off-road while the AT35 drives with a great deal of comfort and control.

The AT35 is a luxurious but extremely competent 4×4 pick-up. Refined amenities such as the Bespoke Arctic Truck Branded Headrests, Arctic Trucks Floor Mats, branded sill covers, and Leather Interior provide comfort in this resilient vehicle. With high-tech features like Traffic Sign Recognition, Automatic Windscreen Wipers and Emergency Lane Keeping, the AT35 also has impressive features to allow for an enjoyable driving experience. This includes a 9” Multifunction Touchscreen with Bluetooth connectivity that can sync with Android Auto and Apply CarPlay. The truck also has a HDMI port, Dual Zone Climate Control and eight speakers with a Subwoofer.

 

As well as peak levels of comfort and luxury, the AT35 also comes with convenient features such as a rear camera, parking sensors and Arctic Trucks Side Steps. An elevated driving position, enhanced suspension and wider tyres come together to keep drivers safe while providing great off-road performance. After scoring the highest achievable score in the tough new Euro NCAP Safety Tests, the All-New Isuzu D-Max AT35 has a range of Advanced Driver Assist Systems such as Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Breaking to keep drivers safe.

The All-New D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35 takes capability to the next level, this vehicle stands out, and stands above the rest. The array of new practical and stylish features, every part of this vehicle ensures anywhere is possible.

William Brown, Isuzu UK’s Managing Director, commented:
“It is a pleasure to work with Arctic Trucks on this prototype in advance of the launch of our new AT35. Following the success of the all-new D-Max launch in 2021, it feels very exciting to be launching another new vehicle in 2022. We wanted to build upon the D-Max’s strengths to make a highly desirable and highly competent 4×4 pick-up and we are so pleased with the result. Through using Arctic Trucks’ impressive expertise alongside the D-Max’s impressive abilities the AT35 is truly an outstanding truck.”

Peter Smith, Arctic Trucks UK Managing Director, said
“Our partnership with Isuzu now stretches back years. During that time, we have had several versions of the Isuzu D-Max AT35 however this is the best yet. Being based on the award winning, all-new D-Max with the addition of Arctic Trucks specialist engineering has produced this amazing truck! I am excited for when this highly desirable and outstanding AT35 goes on sale, we are expecting a huge amount of interest from its appearance at the CV Show.”

All elements of each D-Max AT35 build are undertaken by Isuzu and Arctic Trucks technicians to ensure showroom quality, adherence to all relevant vehicle type approvals and full-alignment with Isuzu’s 5-year / 125,000-mile warranty.

For more information on the Isuzu D-Max range please visit www.Isuzu.co.uk for details of your local dealership.

TOYOTA HILUX ARCTIC TRUCKS AT35… THE LEGEND, REBORN

For three decades the legendary Toyota Hilux has been the backbone of Arctic Trucks’ operations, setting an unrivalled benchmark for quality, durability and reliability in the most remote and inhospitable environments on our planet. As the world’s leading polar vehicle operator, Toyota Authorised Converter Arctic Trucks have built an unparalleled level of expertise in the re-engineering of four-wheel drive vehicles to conquer earth’s extremes, travelling over 340,000kms on Antarctica’s high plateau alone, and continuing to set multiple world records and firsts in the process. These include the first vehicles to reach the Magnetic North Pole, furthest expedition in Polar history, first expedition to cross all 7 continents, first Antarctic crossing by passenger vehicle and the fastest overland journey to the South Pole. Whether for lifestyle or professional purposes, Arctic Trucks Toyotas conquer environments others simply do not account for, enabling owners and operators worldwide to safely, efficiently and successfully “Explore Without Limits”.

Developed from decades of direct operational experience in the world’s harshest and most challenging environments, the new and improved Toyota Hilux Arctic Trucks AT35 is a professionally re-engineered high mobility vehicle, each one individually crafted by Arctic Trucks technicians to incorporate significant enhancements to body, frame, drivetrain, suspension, wheels and tyres. The new 204hp 2.8-litre diesel engine, six-speed automatic transmission and interior/exterior updates are carried over from the standard Hilux Invincible X, making this most refined Arctic Trucks Hilux yet to be offered through the Toyota retailer network. Building on the renowned quality, durability and reliability of the Hilux platform, the ‘cool and capable’ AT35 version is especially developed to handle challenging landscapes with ease, while offering an outstanding presence and authentic performance that is noticed everywhere, whether on or off-road. In combination with Arctic Trucks adjustment, strengthening and reprofiling of the chassis and bodywork, and re-gearing of the front and rear differentials, the specially-developed Arctic Trucks Bilstein performance suspension system, extended rear shackles, and enlarged all-terrain wheel and BFGoodrich tyre package enable far greater ground clearance, articulation, approach, departure and breakover angles.

As a result, the newly updated Hilux AT35 delivers a finely tuned balance of confidence-inspiring on-road handling and dramatically enhanced clearance, comfort, control and mobility over all terrains. The signature Arctic Trucks extended fender flares create additional clearance and amplify the vehicle‘s raised stance, while conveying a dramatic sense of style and purpose. This is complemented by premium Arctic Trucks and AT35 detailing throughout, along with durable extended profile Arctic Trucks side steps, mud guards, car mats and a versatile 2” rear multifunction receiver hitch, enabling quick and easy fitment of tow balls, winches, rear steps, gear carriers and more. All elements of each Hilux AT35 build are undertaken in Arctic Trucks’ own Toyota-approved facilities to original manufacturer standards, maintaining Toyota’s 5-year / 100,000-mile warranty. The model is fully type approved and retains commercial vehicle status, with no compromise in payload or towing capacity.

SPECIFICATION

Each Toyota Hilux AT35 is built to the following specification (additional accessories available):

  • Extended Arctic Trucks fender flare package, front and rear (body colour), featuring recessed AT tyre pressure detail
  • Arctic Trucks re-engineering to frame, inner arches and bodywork
  • Rugged 17×10 ET-25 Arctic Trucks alloy wheels (matte black or hyper dark)
  • 35” (LT315/70 R17) BFGoodrich KO2 all-terrain tyres
  • Optimised and elevated Arctic Trucks Bilstein performance suspension system featuring front springs/dampers, anti-roll adjustment and rear dampers, with extended Arctic Trucks shackles (elevation: +40mm front / +20mm rear)
  • Upgraded front and rear differentials, for enhanced torque and drivability
  • Speedometer re-calibration
  • Robust extended profile Arctic Trucks side steps
  • Enlarged and strengthened Arctic Trucks mud guards, front and rear
  • Arctic Trucks rear height bar with integrated 2” multifunction receiver hitch
  • Arctic Trucks / AT35 badging and detailing package (doors, side steps, tailgate, wheel centres, mud guards, receiver cover)
  • Arctic Trucks premium car mats, front and rear (anthracite and grey)
  • Arctic Trucks locking wheel nuts
  • Arctic Trucks torque wrench
  • Arctic Trucks user manual
  • Arctic Trucks certificate of authenticity and 30th anniversary decal

OPTIONS

A range of fully fitted Arctic Trucks options is also available, including full underbody armour, Vision X grille-mounted light bar and a range of Mountain Top tonneau covers, sports bars and accessories. The tyre specification can be upgraded to BFGoodrich KM3 Mud-Terrain tyres and an on-board inflation/deflation kit can be installed, with a 12V performance compressor mounted in the engine bay.

The Hilux AT35 conversion can be ordered from Toyota retailers now for new Invincible X DC Auto, priced at £18,780 plus VAT.

Contact Carrim Bundhun on +44(0)7884 436 331 / carrim.bundhun@arctictrucks.com to be introduced to your local dealership.

Reaching The Pole of Inaccessibility – 82°06′S 54°58′Ø

An expedition by Arctic Trucks reached the Pole of Innaccessibility, which holds the record of being the coldest average temperature on earth, -58.2C. The expedition was lead by Hlynur Sigurðsson and Eiður Smári Valsson from Arctic Trucks along with three other companions from Russia. This is a big expedition which aims to be the first in the world to cross Antarctica between Ronne Iceschelf and Nivilisen Iceshelf via South Pole. The POI is put in extra as an extra achievement. Overall the expedition started in Punta Arenas in Chile South America the 3rd January and planned to end in Cape Town South Africa 21st of January.

Arctic Trucks has once before achived reaching Pole of Innaccessibility, this was in January 2011 – photo Gísli Jónsson and Guðmundur Guðjónsson.

The expedition route, starting from Union Glacier on 3rd January, driving to the Ronne Iceshelf and then to South Pole. From South Pole to FD83 around the Clean Air Zone (CZ). From reaching the Point of Inaccessbility (POI), they will drive back to FD83 and continue to Novo and Nivlisen Iceshelf and formally complete this crossing of Antarctica

The story behind this pole says that during the cold war, with the US “occupying” the South Pole, Russia was missing their own important “Pole” so they had their Geologists research what point in Antarctica was the hardest to reach, this being furthest from the sea.

They named this Pole Of Inaccessibility and made a big expedition there ending in 1958 leaving behind a small research station. They came back in 1967 but since then it has not been in use. Now the station has been covered by snow but the statue of Lenin facing Moscow is still visible on the top. Very few people have ever been there since.

This place has the record of holding the lowest average temperature on earth or -58.2C

(FD83 is area for Fuel Drop at 83 degrees, an area where fuel is dropped down in parachutes for servicing flights going between South Pole and Novo).

(The Team!)

The 6×6 AT vehicles have been fitted with the new AT/Nokian 44 inch tyres. This particular car has been driven thousands of km in Antarctica both for science and adventure purpose. Before this season it has crossed Antarctica between Ronne and Ross Iceshelfs with stop at South Pole 10 times.