NEW WORLD RECORD TO THE SOUTH POLE

Arctic Trucks International announced yesterday that Guinness World Records has officially recognized the new world record of the fastest overland journey to the South Pole. In December 2010 two Arctic Trucks vehicles crossed 2308km of the Antarctica High Plateau from Novolazarevskaya station (Novo) to the South Pole in 108 hours (4.5 days). The purpose-built AT Expedition vehicles, based around a Toyota Hilux 3.0 liter turbo diesel platform, traveled at an average speed of 21.4km/h to the South Pole with an average fuel efficiency of 2.2km/per liter, with only a single refueling stop on the way.

An unofficial improvement of the record itself was achieved at the return journey, which took only 3.5 days, averaging 27.5km/h. No comparable speed or fuel efficiency has ever been recorded for high plateau expeditions in Antarctica. Arctic Trucks built vehicles have now clocked over eighty thousand kilometers on the plateau, proving new benchmarks for speed, range, reliability and fuel efficiency. The expedition was organized by the Kazakhstan National Geographic Society (KNGS) and The Antarctica Company (TAC).

“This route to the South Pole is extremely challenging. Our vehicles are operating at altitudes up to almost 3500m, in ultra-low temperatures and in very difficult snow conditions. The vast distance is a challenge in itself, with up to 1500km between fuel depots. We are delighted to celebrate this new world record with the team, which also marks a growing recognition of the power of Arctic Trucks solutions for expedition use,” commented Emil Grimsson, Executive Chairman of Arctic Trucks.

For the season of 2011 are planned four further expeditions to the South Pole using Arctic Trucks vehicles, three starting from Novo and one from Patriot Hills.

RACE-INSPIRED HOT ROAD

Marking its first entry into the growing pure-sport side-by-side market, Arctic Cat today officially introduced the all-new Wildcat V-Twin 1000i H.O. It is a full-production version of what was previously reserved for off-road race vehicles, offering the largest displacement engine in its class, industry-leading suspension travel, 13 inches of ground clearance and a full-perimeter frame. It debuts as the industry’s most potent pure-sport recreational off-road vehicle (ROV), inspired by the unforgiving terrain of the Baja 1000 off-road race.

The 1000i H.O. engine powering the new Wildcat is the largest displacement engine in the pure-sport category. The 951cc V-Twin, SOHC 4-stroke with electronic fuel injection (EFI) has proven itself on the Prowler XTZ. On the Wildcat, the 1000i H.O. has been tuned to deliver even stronger acceleration and horsepower.

The Wildcat’s long-suspension rivals those used on off-road race buggies. The foundation for the Wildcat’s suspension is a full-perimeter, and the chassis is constructed from high strength low alloy (HSLA) steel. The all-new Duro Kaden 14-inch tires also were developed specifically for the Wildcat, utilizing an elongated tread pattern designed to extend to the tires’ shoulder for better traction in rough condition.

The interior features for optimal comfort, control and visibility contoured, high-back bucket seats, an infinitely adjustable tilt-steering wheel, and convenient digital and analog gauges. Its LED headlights and taillights provide brighter, more energy-efficient visibility. The Wildcat’s rear cargo bed has the largest capacity in its class with a 300lb payload to carry a cooler and additional fuel containers. In addition, a 12V accessory outlet is located in the center console for GPS or cell phone adapters.