To conquer the Antarctic, the Arctic Trucks company created a special six-wheeled Toyota Hilux with the index AT44.
Arctic Trucks gained popularity by making hardcore vehicles for no less extreme purposes. However, the Icelandic company ran into problems during its expedition in Antarctica in 2008.
In preparation for the new challenge, Arctic Trucks developed a new vehicle based on the Toyota Hilux. The AT44 index was created from a combination of the company’s name acronym and the 44-inch tires on all six wheels of the truck.
However, the Hilux AT44 6×6 pickup is designed not only for arctic missions but also for extreme.
What has changed?
To build Hilux AT44 6×6, we had to take apart the standard Toyota Hilux. Some 80 percent of the frame was replaced with sturdier material, while 20 percent was completely redesigned, both to reinforce the chassis and add personality to the truck.
About 500 hours were spent on modifications to the pickup that included processes to strengthen the suspension and improve the off-road vehicle’s center of gravity. As we know, the lower the center of gravity, the better in off-road conditions.
The Hilux AT44 6×6 is equipped with a 3.0-liter diesel engine modified for jet fuel consumption. This ensures that the fuel will still be effective in extremely low temperatures of -45 degrees Fahrenheit (-43 degrees Celsius).
The pickup’s range has also been extended. The vehicle received a 750-liter fuel tank, and the truck itself can carry up to 1,400 liters of fuel.
As mentioned, the pickup is equipped with a set of 44-inch soft-sided tires, which is handy when you have to pump the tires for better traction in the snow.
As for the decision to convert the Hilux to a 6×6 scheme, Arctic Trucks notes that with six wheels more traction and buoyancy are achieved, and you can haul more and drive with more confidence.
Arctic Trucks hasn’t announced a price for the Toyota Hilux AT44 6×6 on its website, but the video above indicates the vehicle is $275,000.