Top Gear’s Polar Toyota Hilux
By Alan • October 28th, 2007 •
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When TopGear star Jeremy Clarkson decided to go to the North Pole by car, he chose a Toyota Hilux that was modified by Arctic Trucks for this very special task. It was much harder than originally planned, but they did it - they managed to get to the North Pole in a Toyota Hilux. The model is an extraordinary piece of engineering - it kept going through the harsh conditions, even after suffering damage.
A few snapshorts of the Toyota from the Top Gear Polar Special (Original Air Date: 25 July 2007):
It was one of their best shows, they really pushed their limits on this one.
Modifications:
- 38 inches in diameter and running at pressures as low as 4psi to give good flotation over snow. Two valves per wheel.
- Mounted on a heavy duty bulbar with lifting points. Auxillary driving lights are Xenons. Arches flared by 30cm.
- Modified for ultra-low air temperatures. Extra coolant added to boost coolant temperature before start-up. There’s a fuel heater in there, too.
- Fat 5mm aluminium skid plates protect the bumper, suspension, transmission and transfer case.
- The position of the front suspension was moved 50mm towards the ground, then moved forward 40mm.
- Lots of kit in here including shovels, pry-bars, jacks, towing strap, tool kits, first aid kits and a chain saw. Friendly.
- Locking front and rear diffs modified to cope with the cold. Special exhaust and extra fuel tank under here, too.
- A weapon holder. Shotguns were carried for protection against polar bear attack.
Tags: hilux, north pole, top gear, toyota
Alan is a concept-cars.org founder editor.
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I really love Top Gear (I just finished watching it!), but for one reason and another; I had to miss the polar special.
Was it any good? Is it worth finding the episode online to watch it?
I love the look of the car; great post!
Damn those guys have a lot of money to spend on these cars. I must say, this particular one is sweet as
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let’s go baby seal hunting, i’ll bring the buns.
“Shotguns were carried for protection against polar bear attack”
Now THAT’s planning ahead
Wait- I’m confused. Where’s Santa?
why did sat nav read 78 degrees at the north pole. I would have thought it should be 90 degrees