Specifically designed... not only did the Toyota HiLux cope in the Antarctic conditions they also carried up to 2.5 tonnes.
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Fresh from a Top Gear episode where the Toyota HiLux became the first vehicle to drive to the North Pole, it now has completed a trip across Antarctica to the South Pole.
HiLux models were selected as support vehicles for the Amundsen Omega3 South Pole Race, a 773km skiing challenge celebrating the historic rival expeditions of explorers Roald Amundsen and Robert Scott.
The HiLux diesel dual cabs were prepared for the extreme conditions by Arctic Trucks, the Reykjavik-based company which also fettled the Top Gear challenge machines.
Towing custom-built trailers, the HiLux at times had to cope with loads up to 2.5 tonnes — 1.5 tonnes more than their specified capacity, and were also newly fitted with a system to melt snow while on the move, using heat from the engine.
The HiLux quarter were used to ferry supplies, scientists and team support groups and to carry out reconnaissance duties. They covered more than 3200km each across the rough, frozen terrain in temperatures as low as -30C.
HiLux has already proved its worth as a workhorse of choice for scientists based at Camp Novo and other Antarctic research stations, and is being reviewed as the solution for future transport requirements in the area.
