Sierra Blogging Post Archives

Don't think it's possible to cross Antarctica on a snowmobile? Think again.

This high-tech snowmobile aims to do just that - while running solely on bio-fuel (renewably sourced fuel made from organic plant matter). This impressive snow scooter is called BIV or "Bio-Inspired Ice Vehicle," and is powered by vegetable oil.


The snow scooter is set to be used in the Moon-Regan Expedition, which will take up to 40 days and cover 3,000 miles. The goal is for 11 researchers - who are testing biofuel use in extreme temperatures and studying the effects of climate change in Antarctica - to make the fastest-ever crossing of the frozen continent.

The 1,500-pound, 15-feet wide ice vehicle can carry only one rider at a time but can move pretty fast - up to 84 mph on ice. Enhanced with a special GPS unit and ground-penetrating radar for crevasse detection, the vehicle should help the team make the historic crossing in good time.

It will be interesting to see how a veggie-oil scooter performs in the Antarctic - where temps can dip well below zero. Do you think the team will make it?