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K&N Performance Air Filters and Intakes Guide for the Dodge Challenger

Looking for 2008-2017 Dodge Challenger Performance Parts? K&N has everything you need

Looking for 2008-2017 Dodge Challenger Performance Parts? K&N has everything you need!

In 1969, the big three US auto makers were busy duking it out in the now famous muscle car wars. Ford had the wildly popular Mustang. GM had their F-body Camaro/Firebird twins, and Chrysler Corp. had the Dodge Charger R/T. However, the Mopar offering was about the size of a small apartment building, so it didn't really appeal to younger buyers. To fill this gaping hole in their product line, the 'White Hat' boys launched the all new E-Body Dodge Challenger for 1970. This Mopar muscle car was slightly larger than a Mustang or Camaro, but it was more comfortable, and the Challenger Hemi models were more powerful. Fast forward to 2008, and the newly retro-fied Mustang and Camaro had once again ripped a hole in the Daimler-Chrysler product line. So they shortened the rear-drive LX platform (known as the LC platform), and the designers broke out a Ouija board to conjure up a new muscle car. The result looked like a reincarnated 1970 Dodge Challenger. But it was bigger, safer, and yes, it had a Hemi!

For the initial 2008-2010 Dodge Challenger, there was a base 250-hp Challenger SE V6, the extremely popular Challenger R/T with a 370-375 horsepower 5.7L Hemi V8, and the scandalously fast Challenger SRT8, which sported a 425-hp 6.1L Hemi V8. The 2011 Dodge Challenger received a minor facelift, along with a much improved suspension, and two exciting new engines. The entry level Dodge Challenger SXT / SE got the new Pentastar 3.6L V6, which produced a more muscular 305-hp/268 lb-ft. The 2011 Dodge Challenger R/T got a power increase to 372-hp/400 lb-ft with the 5-speed AutoStick, and 379-hp/410 lb-ft with the 6-speed manual. The almighty 2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 got an even bigger boost thanks to the new 6.4L Hemi / 392 Hemi. Stomp the Go-Pedal and 470-hp/470 lb-ft will hurl you to 60 mph in around 4.5 ticks. Over the next few years, the Dodge Challenger 6.4L Hemi underwent some changes in the various models. The latest Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 pumps out a heady 485-hp with the 392 Scat Pack option. However, that impressive figure was handily beaten when they introduced the insane Dodge Challenger Hellcat. Thanks to a massive blower, the 6.2L Hemi Hellcat engine pumps out 707-hp, making it the most powerful production car that Dodge has ever made. But no matter how powerful this Mustang beater is, K&N makes an entire line of Dodge Challenger performance parts that can make a Super Snake go hide under a ZL1.

Dodge Challenger Performance Air Filters

Low Restriction Dodge Challenger Replacement Air Filter - K&N 33-2295

Low Restriction Dodge Challenger Replacement Air Filter - K&N 33-2295

Unlike a 'surface loading' paper OE Dodge Challenger air filter, a reusable K&N replacement air filter is made from a woven cotton gauze that is designed to trap and hold dirt particles inside a web of oiled cotton fibers. This is called 'depth loading', and it allows more air to flow through the filter to the engine, which in turn improves performance by allowing the engine to burn the fuel more completely. This is one of the simplest ways to increase your Dodge Challenger performance. And because it's a K&N direct fit replacement air filter, it won't void your factory warranty.

Owners of the 2009-2010 Dodge Challenger 3.5L V6, 2009-2010 Dodge Challenger R/T 5.7L Hemi, and 2008-2010 Dodge Challenger SRT-8 6.1L Hemi, can enjoy a lifetime of performance from the K&N 33-2295 replacement air filter. In fact, it's backed by the K&N 10-Year/Million Mile Limited Warranty, and it only has to be cleaned every 50,000 miles (depending on road conditions). So it will save you both time and money.

If you own a 2011-2017 Dodge Challenger 3.6L Pentastar V6, a 2011-2017 Dodge Challenger 5.7L Hemi V-8, a 2011-2017 Dodge Challenger SRT 6.4L Hemi V-8, or the smokin' 2015-2017 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat (yep, we make a low restriction drop-in Hellcat air filter), then you can use a K&N 33-2460 replacement air filter. It's warranty-friendly, and street legal in all 50-states.

Dodge Challenger Performance Intake Systems

50-State Legal 2011-2014 Dodge Challenger SRT8 Cold Air Intake - K&N 57-1565 FIPK

50-State Legal 2011-2014 Dodge Challenger SRT8 Cold Air Intake - K&N 57-1565 FIPK

One of the easiest ways to increase the horsepower on your Dodge Challenger is to ditch the stock Mopar intake for a high-flow K&N performance intake system. There are numerous airflow restrictions throughout an OE Challenger intake system. There's the factory air box with its small inlet opening and thick paper air filter. The intake tube is a compilation of different size tubing, which usually has accordion-like bends that cause the air to swirl around and become turbulent. If the air gets restricted and becomes turbulent before it reaches the motor, it can lose oxygen content and cause the motor to extract less power from the fuel during detonation. A K&N performance air intake system on the other hand, uses a variety of low restriction components to increase airflow to your Pentastar V6 or Hemi V8. From the wide diameter intake tubes to the free-flowing K&N performance air filters, these Dodge Challenger cold air intake systems are designed to boost horsepower and torque.

2011-2016 Dodge Challenger V6 Cold Air Intake - K&N 63-1564 AirCharger

2011-2016 Dodge Challenger V6 Cold Air Intake - K&N 63-1564 AirCharger

For a 50-state legal performance increase, the 2009-2014 Dodge Challenger R/T 5.7L Hemi and 2008-2010 Dodge Challenger SRT8 6.1L Hemi can use the K&N 57-1542 FIPK performance intake system, which dyno testing has shown to provide an estimated increase of 31.42 horsepower and 31.63 lb-ft of torque. The 2009-2010 Dodge Challenger V6 3.5L will get a serious benefit from the K&N 57-1543 FIPK performance intake. While the later 2011-2014 Dodge Challenger 3.6L V6 can see an estimated increase of 8.09 horsepower from the K&N 57-1564 FIPK performance intake. On the 392 Hemi V8 front, the 2011-2014 Dodge Challenger SRT8 6.4L will get an estimated increase of up to 21.95 horsepower and 17.53 lb-ft of torque from the K&N 57-1565 FIPK performance intake system.

If you want a more aggressive Dodge Challenger cold air intake system, then you need to check out the K&N 63-Series AirCharger performance intake system. It uses a wider diameter polyethylene intake tube, connected to a larger high flow K&N performance air filter. The result is more horsepower and torque, faster throttle response, and the same 100,000 mile air filter cleaning interval (depending on driving conditions). If extra horsepower is what you are looking for, then a K&N 63-1564 AirCharger intake can give the 2011, 2012, 2014, 2015 or 2016 Dodge Challenger 3.6L V6 an estimated increase of 8.09-hp & 8.13 lb-ft. The 2011-2017 Dodge Challenger R/T 5.7L Hemi can see similar gains from the K&N 63-1114 AirCharger system, while the almighty 2011-2016 Dodge Challenger SRT-8 6.4L Hemi can get an estimated increase of 21.95 horsepower & 17.53 lb-ft from the K&N 63-1565 AirCharger intake system.

2009-2017 Dodge Challenger R/T Cold Air Intake - K&N 69-2526TP Typhoon

2009-2017 Dodge Challenger R/T Cold Air Intake - K&N 69-2526TP Typhoon

Another step up the Dodge Challenger performance ladder is the K&N 69-Series Typhoon performance intake system. It grabs large quantities of air through an oversized K&N performance air filter, just like the other K&N Dodge Challenger cold air intake systems. However, it also surrounds the filter with a self-sealing heat shield, to keep hot engine air from entering the intake system. And, the mandrel-bent aluminum intake tube cools the air and smooths the airflow path even further. The results are dramatic, as the K&N 69-2526TP Typhooni intake system will bestow an estimated increase of 11.66 horsepower on the 2009-2017 Dodge Challenger R/T 5.7L Hemi. The K&N 69-2544TP Typhoon intake adds an estimated increase of 7.42-hp to the 2011-2017 Dodge Challenger V6, while the 2011-2016 Dodge Challenger SRT-8 6.4L Hemi will get an estimated 22.24-hp and 19.25 lb-ft from the K&N 69-2545TP Typhoon system. But perhaps the most impressive K&N engineering feat is the K&N 69-2550TTK Typhoon intake system. This insane Dodge Challenger Hellcat cold air intake will give the equally insane supercharged 6.2L Hellcat Hemi an estimated 38.95 horsepower & 21.01 lb-ft of torque! The test car (a 2015 Dodge Challenger Hellcat) showed 638.75 horsepower & 574.55 lb-ft at the rear wheels!!

Dodge Challenger Hellcat Cold Air Intake - K&N 69-2550TTK Typhoon

Dodge Challenger Hellcat Cold Air Intake - K&N 69-2550TTK Typhoon

If you really want to add some horsepower to your Dodge Challenger specs, then check out the K&N Blackhawk Induction Systems. This top-of-the-line Challenger Hemi intake system uses a high-flow K&N DryFlow synthetic air filter, attached to a wide-diameter aluminum intake tube that features a black powder coat finish, and a special engraved K&N commemorative plate. Not only does this blacked-out intake system look great under the hood, it can turn air into lots of extra power. On the 2009-2017 Dodge Challenger R/T 5.7L Hemi, the K&N 71-1542 Blackhawk Induction system adds an estimated 14.13 horsepower & 13.04 lb-ft of torque. And there's even a version for the 2011-2016 Dodge Challenger SRT-8 392 Hemi (K&N 71-2545 Blackhawk Induction system).

There are many Dodge Challenger performance upgrades on the market, but none of them can match the quality and performance of a K&N replacement air filter or a K&N cold air intake. To see all of the K&N Dodge Challenger performance parts that are available for your specific model, use the K&N search by vehicle tool.

Turn Air into Horsepower with a Dodge Challenger Cold Air Intake System from K&N

Turn Air into Horsepower with a Dodge Challenger Cold Air Intake System from K&N

Dodge Challenger SRT 392 Cold Air Intake - K&N 71-2545 Blackhawk

Dodge Challenger SRT 392 Cold Air Intake - K&N 71-2545 Blackhawk

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The K&N HD-1717 Air Filter is Designed for Power and Engine Protection

Side view of the HD-1717 air filter for Harley-Davidson FL models

The HD-1717 air filter incorporates K&N's high-flow cotton gauze filter media

One of the earmarks of most of the Harley-Davidson® FL models is the large-framed classic styling they embody. That being the case, many FL owners prefer the stock look of their bikes. Now 2017 Harley® FL owners can enjoy the performance and protection advantage of K&N air filtration while retaining the stock air box and cover.

The K&N HD-1717 air filter is designed to give a boost in horsepower and torque to your 2017 107 CI Harley. It replaces the oe air filter, part number #29400212. The free flowing design is engineered to provide additional air to your V-twin. A reduction in intake restriction typically results in crisper throttle response for a more satisfying ride. Of course, your performance results will vary.

K&N’s rigorous testing of the HD-1717 reflects in an estimated overall filtration efficiency of over 98%. You are encouraged to click on the Air Filter Test Data link on the HD-1717 product page to see the protocols and filtration charts.

Back view of the HD-1717 air filter for Harley-Davidson FL models

The application-specific filter body fits perfectly in the stock FL air box

The marriage of performance and effective filtration is what K&N is all about. The first line of the K&N test data page states, “Proper air filter design will accomplish high filtration without overly impeding air flow or engine performance through restriction.” Clearly, as is the case with all K&N filters, the HD-1717 is the embodiment of the performance and effective filtration design goal.

The filter element is engineered in a shape and form that perfectly fits the stock air box. The factory breather tube is incorporated just as it would be with the stock disposable air filter. The HD-1717 also features an application specific base seal and sealing bead to ensure an OE level of fitment. The installation is made simple with K&N’s installation sheet.

The washable and reusable filter is composed of pleated woven cotton gauze media that comes pre-oiled and ready to install. When it is time to wash and re-oil the filter, a K&N 99-5000 filter recharge kit makes the process simple and straightforward.

HD-1717 air filter and box for Harley-Davidson FL models

The HD-1717 air filter comes pre-oiled and ready to use out the box

With K&N’s famous 10-Year/Million Mile Limited Warranty, the HD-1717 may be the last air filter you will ever need to buy for your Harley FL.

The HD-1717 is designed to fit the following models:

2017 HARLEY DAVIDSON FLTRXS ROAD GLIDE SPECIAL 107 CI - All Models
2017 HARLEY DAVIDSON FLTRX ROAD GLIDE 107 CI - All Models
2017 HARLEY DAVIDSON FLTRU ROAD GLIDE ULTRA 107 CI - All Models
2017 HARLEY DAVIDSON FLRT FREEWHEELER 107 CI - All Models
2017 HARLEY DAVIDSON FLHXS STREET GLIDE SPECIAL 107 CI - All Models
2017 HARLEY DAVIDSON FLHX STREET GLIDE 107 CI - All Models
2017 HARLEY DAVIDSON FLHTKL ULTRA LIMITED LOW 107 CI - All Models
2017 HARLEY DAVIDSON FLHTK ULTRA LIMITED 107 CI - All Models
2017 HARLEY DAVIDSON FLHTCUTG TRI GLIDE ULTRA 107 CI - All Models
2017 HARLEY DAVIDSON FLHTCU ELECTRA GLIDE ULTRA CLASSIC 107 CI - All Models
2017 HARLEY DAVIDSON FLHR ROAD KING 107 CI - All Models

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Joey Logano Wins Toyota Owners 500 at Richmond International Speedway

Joey Logano, Toyota Owners 500, K&N, NASCAR

Joey Logano reaching the checkered flag for his win at the Toyota Owners 500

Joey Logano won the Toyota Owners 500 at Richmond International Speedway on Sunday, in a come from behind fashion. Logano won his first race of the 2017 season, and his 18th win in his 300th career start.

“Took us all day to at least break into the top 5,” Logano said. “We kind of leveled out as the fifth, seventh, eight-place car. Seemed like everyone from fourth to 10th was about the same speed, so it was all about just gaining a little bit of track position on restarts and pit stops, and we just kind of stayed right around there”.

Logano led twice for 25 laps, the majority coming towards the end of the race, due to his equipment issue that caused him to start the race in the rear. He received 42 points and five playoff points for his win. Logano ranks fourth in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series standings with 333 points and 6 playoff points.

“Here we were just fast enough to break through and kind of steal a win,” Logano said. “We had a decent car. We were in the lead when the caution came out there, and we looked like we were in pretty good shape, and then obviously to have the good pit stops and all that, I don't know if you'd really call that stealing. We didn't get lucky.”

Brad Keselowski, K&N, NASCAR, Toyota Owners 500

Brad Keselowski racing during the Toyota Owners 500 at Richmond International Raceway

Logano’s teammate for Team Penske, Brad Keselowski came in second place, after leading for a race high of 110 laps, six times. Keselowski could not get out of traffic coming out of the final restart, thus not being able to catch Logano. Keselowski was in first place at the conclusion of stage 2, thus rewarding him with one playoff point.

“That's part of how this racing deal works, and the fastest car doesn't always win, and it takes some weeks where you're the fastest and you have to try to make the most of it and try and do all you can,” Keselowski said. “I feel as a team we did that today. Frustrated to not bring it home, but proud of the effort and the speed we had today and leading laps and getting the stage win and so forth."

Denny Hamlin came in third place, leading three times for 59 laps.

“Yeah, it was about as good as we had,” Hamlin said. “You know, we just didn't have the speed that the other cars had. We talked about that Friday during media. But we optimized our day. It's the best we could do. We finished right where we should have.”

Matt Kenseth led the first stage of the Toyota Owners 500, earning a crucial 1st playoff point for the Series Standings.

Joey Logano, Toyota Owners 500, K&N, NASCAR

Joey Logano celebrating his win at the Toyota Owners 500 at Richmond International Raceway

Dale Earnhardt Jr. finished in 30th place, the first race coming after his retirement announcement a week ago. Earnhardt Jr. will retire after the conclusion of the 2017 season after a tremendous career.

Kyle Larson continues to lead the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series standings with 398 points and 7 playoff points. Martin Truex Jr. is in second place with 358 points and 10 playoff points. Chase Elliott is in third place with 346 points and 2 playoff points. Joey Logano is in fourth place with 333 points and 6 playoff points.

The next race in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series will be the Geico 500 at Talladega Speedway.

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J&P Cycles Founder and Friend of K&N John Parham Dies

John Parham, founder of J&P Cycles dies

John Parham developed the largest motorcycle aftermarket company in the world

The partnership between K&N and J&P Cycles goes back years. Thus, it is with heavy hearts that we acknowledge the passing of the founder of J&P Cycles, John Parham. John lost his battle with pulmonary fibrosis on Thursday, April 20, 2017 at the age of 62.

John’s positive influence on motorcycling is indelible. He was an innovative business owner and a tireless promoter of all things motorcycle related. Motorsport Aftermarket Group President and CEO, Andy Graves, expressed just how powerful John’s impact has been on the motorcycling lifestyle.

“John was a very special person,” said Graves. “So many people knew John as a retailer, an event promoter, a custom bike aficionado, a vintage bike fan or the driving force behind the National Motorcycle Museum. Few people have accomplished so much for so many riders in their lifetime.”

In 1979, John started the company that DealerNews Magazine named the “World’s Largest Aftermarket Retailer.” His visionary work in mail order parts sales changed the aftermarket parts business.

John Parham, founder of J&P Cycles dies

Parham was passionate about preserving vintage motorcycles

John realized that a healthy mix of brick and mortar and virtual stores was the wave of the retail future. He did all of this while expanding his efforts to promote races and vintage motorcycle events throughout the country.

A good example of J&P’s promotion influence is the company’s title sponsorship of the Ultimate Builder Custom Bike Show at each stop of the Progressive International Motorcycle Show. K&N was proud to co-sponsor that highly-successful program recognizing motorcycle design and building innovation.

John was tireless in preserving and sharing the beauty of vintage motorcycles with the masses. As chairman of the National Motorcycle Museum he helped collect one of the largest and most comprehensive collections of motorcycles in the world. The NMM preserves and displays in excess of 300 machines.

John Parham, founder of J&P Cycles dies

Parham's devotion to the sport of motorcycling will be missed

For his lifetime of influence in the motorcycle industry, John was inducted into both the AMA Hall of Fame in 2015 and the Sturgis Museum’s Hall of Fame in 2009.

John He is survived by his wife Jill, son Zach, daughter-in-law Bree, and two grandchildren. Zach is the General Manager and Vice-President of Merchandising at J&P Cycles.

In memory of John Parham’s legacy, folks are encouraged to sign up for and support the organ donation program in their community, and continue their support of the National Motorcycle Museum.

We at K&N would like to express our sincere condolences to all of the friends and family of John Parham. He will be sorely missed, but his immeasurably positive influence lives on.

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K&N-Sponsored Team Uses a Pair of Hummer H1s to Promote Environmental Responsibity

The ZERO SOUTH team converted a pair of Hummer H1s to hybrid vehicles for South Pole expeditions

The ZERO SOUTH team converted a pair of Hummer H1s to hybrid vehicles for South Pole expeditions

If you think about hybrid vehicles, the prime example that comes to most people’s minds is the venerable Toyota Prius – and for good reason. They have been around for over 20 years and are a popular option for people looking to lessen their carbon footprint. On the other end of the spectrum is arguably one of the least ‘green’ vehicles around – the Hummer H1.

Based off the M998 HMMWV, or Humvee, by AM General, the Hummer H1 is a civilian off-road vehicle powered by one of four diesel engines or a 5.7L gas engine. The H1 weighs anywhere from 7,847 to 8,117 lbs and gets 8-12 MPG on a good day. So why would an organization that is planning to travel to the South Pole using no fossil fuels, pick an H1 Hummer as their expedition vehicle?

This CAD drawing shows they layout of the chassis without the body

This CAD drawing shows they layout of the chassis without the body

It comes down to two words: irony and utility.

Drive Around the World is an organization that was founded over 15 years ago to help promote cross-border understanding and goodwill through innovative educational programs, as well as raise funds and awareness for charitable causes. One of their upcoming expeditions is called ZERO SOUTH. This will be a journey across Antarctica using zero fossil fuels. Instead, they will use batteries and biofuel on their expedition from the coast of Antarctica to the South Pole.

To start with a clean slate, the team tore both vehicles down to nuts and bolts and rebuilt them

To start with a clean slate, the team tore both vehicles down to nuts and bolts and rebuilt them

“The choice of vehicle is ironic. However, initial testing indicates a symbol of military defense used for environmental defense is popular with most audiences and resonates considerably with young people,” said Nick Baggarly, Executive Director at Drive Around the World. “People are polarized by these vehicles – they either love them or hate them. However, their use in extreme environments and as platforms to demonstrate new technology has precedent and is appealing to both groups.”

Even more ironic is the fact that the expedition includes scientists who will perform climate science out of the back of the Hummer. Beyond the irony, these vehicles provide a wide footprint with modular construction that makes it almost the perfect vehicle for conversion to electric drive. It is also very capable off-road, and with the modifications the team made to the base vehicle, it is just about indestructible.

During one of their test runs in Alaska, the ZERO SOUTH team but the both PTVs through their paces

During one of their test runs in Alaska, the ZERO SOUTH team but the both PTVs through their paces

The vehicle build team at Drive Around the World picked up a pair of H1 Hummers, or Polar Traverse Vehicles (PTV) as they call them, that would serve as expeditionary rigs and tow vehicles for their equipment. The first one, PTV-1, was based off a 1998 civilian Hummer H1, the second, PTV-2, started life as a 1996 Civilian H1. The vehicles would be identical in every way, except for the color. With the vehicles obtained, it was time to get to work rebuilding them to be hybrid vehicles capable of handling everything the unforgiving continent of Antarctica could throw at them.

As you can see in this CAD illustration, one PTV will tow the trailer, the other will tow supplies

As you can see in this CAD illustration, one PTV will tow the trailer, the other will tow supplies

These PTVs would have to endure some of the most inhospitable terrain and environment on Earth. The ZERO SOUTH team could not risk breaking down because of a faulty bolt or worn through wire harness. To ensure that every part on each vehicle was ready for the expeditions ahead, the build team tore both vehicles down to nuts and bolts. This gave the team a clean slate to build on. Between the frame rails, a five-foot box was built to house dual battery packs. The batteries would be used to drive a pair of 150kW UQM electric traction motors that were then connected to the factory Hummer driveline by K&N Engineering. K&N may be an odd choice for electric vehicle conversion, but Nick has an explanation for that. “When I first asked K&N Engineering to get behind this project, I knew they had disrupted the automotive air filter market with a lifetime, reusable air-filter that keeps disposable filters out of landfills. K&N makes the world's best product to clean the air that goes into your car's engine, and their support for ZERO SOUTH demonstrates they care about the air we breathe as well.”

The cab resembles that of a space shuttle instead of a 20 year old military vehicle

The cab resembles that of a space shuttle instead of a 20 year old military vehicle

The stock driveline was retained. However, since the vehicle would be fitted with tracks, which can be tough on components, the axles, differentials, hubs, and steering components were upgraded to units from a 12,100 GVW (armored) military HMMWV. Also, during the conversion, the K&N team noticed something interesting. They remarked on how the H1 chassis is remarkably symmetrical and decided to flip the front and rear differentials so the pinions would face outboard. This clever packaging change allowed the electric motors to be mounted outboard with one immediately behind the front bumper and the other directly behind the rear bumper. This bought them room in the engine compartment for a larger generator and significantly more room between the frame rails for the largest battery box possible. The pervasive thinking meant more batteries and more all-electric range.

Most of the scientific work will go on in the back of the PTVs. The ambulance hardtops lots of room.

Most of the scientific work will go on in the back of the PTVs. The ambulance hardtops lots of room.

With the electric side completed, the team installed a Steyr 6-cylinder turbodiesel engine connected to a 150kW UQM motor that would be used as a generator/range extender. It runs on a renewable aviation biofuel called Synthetic Paraffin Kerosene. It is made of a blend of inedible oils that has been converted to an EPA-approved fuel. Finally, the hybrid drivetrain was completed and the team could turn their attention to the rest of the vehicle.

To give the team an area to work inside the Hummer, a pair of ambulance hardtops from military HMMWVs were installed on the two PTVs. This provided enough room for the teams to stand up and walk around. The necessary equipment and tools needed for the expedition would be housed in the back of the Hummers, on the roof racks, in the accompanying Airstream trailer, or on a ski rig that would be towed behind one of the PTVs. One of the features that is most noticeable of the PTVs is the tracks on the four corners. These are manufactured by Mattracks and make traversing the ice shelves of Antarctica a lot easier by spreading out the 11,320 lbs of each PTV over a greater surface area. Behind the tires or tracks, whichever setup they are running with, is a set of Baer brakes that provide enough clamping force to bring the whole rig to a quick halt if need be.

Here the ZERO SOUTH team celebrates a successful test excursion of the PTVs in Alaska

Here the ZERO SOUTH team celebrates a successful test excursion of the PTVs in Alaska

With the trucks built, they went to paint. PTV-1 received several coats of orange on the frame, while the body was covered in a metallic blue. PTV-2 received the opposite, with a blue frame and an orange body. Both trucks then received a saturated metal flake graphic on the sides. On the right is a ‘Z’ and on the left is an ‘S’ to signify ZERO SOUTH. “I dreamed up this project like a ten-year old, so I thought the vehicle should look like those terrycloth surfer shirts we used to wear when we were ten,” explained Nick.

With the paint schemes and the tracks, these vehicles are instantly recognizable and Nick and his crew know this. They use the vehicles to help promote environmental responsibility at events around the globe. Most recently, they attended a rally for science in Los Angeles. Their next expedition, which will be another test excursion, will be in November of 2017, so keep an eye out for more articles on Drive Around the World and their iconic H1 Polar Traverse Vehicles.

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