Nissan Ariya unveiled for Pole-to-Pole expedition

Chris Ramsey and wife Julie start on their 27,000km North Pole to South Pole journey in a special Nissan Ariya electric SUV in March.

An adventure-ready version of the Ariya has been revealed, with polar expedition vehicle specialists Arctic Trucks working with Nissan design and engineering teams.

The adventure aims to showcase EVs’ capabilities and highlight action against the climate crisis.

The EV’s modifications have been intentionally minimal, with no changes to the battery or powertrain, with the most recognisable difference the suspension adaptation and the addition of 39-inch tyres.

When coupled with e-4ORCE, Nissan’s advanced electric all-wheel-control technology, these modifications will enable the expedition EV to tackle extreme terrains while giving the Ramseys the necessary comfort and control.

“One of the things that underpins all the adventures we do is that we take a standard production EV and aim to make minimal changes to clearly demonstrate its real, everyday capabilities, regardless of where you are driving it,” says expedition leader Chris Ramsey.

“Our Nissan Ariya is no different as the vehicle’s drivetrain and battery have remained factory standard, demonstrating just how capable and versatile the production Ariya is.

“We’ve modified the suspension and widened the wheel arches so we can benefit from the stable platform and support of the 39-inch BF Goodrich tyres.”

A coffee lover, Chris Ramsey will have access to a specially integrated espresso machine with a good supply of sustainable coffee, while he can also use a drone launching directly from the roof utility unit to record scenes.

A further innovation is the portable, renewable energy unit to charge the Ariya in the polar regions. The towable prototype includes a packable, lightweight wind turbine and solar panels to take advantage of high winds and long daylight hours to charge the EV’s battery when the Ramseys rest.

“The planning and preparation for Pole-to-Pole has been such a big part of our lives over the past four years so I am really looking forward to getting the expedition underway in March,” says co-driver Julie Ramsey.

“We’re going to discover so many interesting initiatives from communities and individuals who are taking positive Alliance Internal action against climate change and I’m looking forward to sharing these experiences and stories with everyone.”

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