Scottish adventurers, Chris & Julie Ramsey have announced the completion of their “pole-to-pole” EV expedition in 9 months, covering 17,000 miles (27,358.8 km). This is said to be the world’s first drive from the 1823 Magnetic North Pole to the South Pole. The Ramseys reportedly reached their destination on December 15, but could share the news only after re-establishing a satellite connection later.<\/p>\n
The expedition was covered using a Nissan Ariya e-4ORCE electric vehicle, modified by Arctic Trucks – an Icelandic specialist. The modifications included larger 39-inch tyres with matching wheel arches, ice-friendly gear and some other body reinforcement work. The powertrain & suspension were stock, with just a lifted height.<\/p>\n
The modifications meant the EV’s range was reduced from its original 272 miles to just 150-200 miles. Charging the EV was either via a 5 kW wind turbine or a prototype solar hybrid charging solution, depending on the weather. However, there was also a petrol generator in case the first two options failed. The petrol generator though was a mandatory equipment while the car traversed the arctic regions.<\/p>\n
In between the poles, the Ramseys drove through the Americas, which was easier in the northern part due to the readily available EV chargers, but difficult in the south. Hence, the expedition partnered with Enel X Way – an EV charging solutions provider, to install chargers along their route in South & Central America. Enel X Way even promised to keep these chargers available to the public afterwards.<\/p>\n