ANTARCTIC VEHICLES

Press, Volume XCIX, Issue 29367, 21 November 1960, Page 19

ANTARCTIC VEHICLES

U.S. Scientists To Use New Type

Two tracked transport vehicles of a new type will be used by American scientists in the Antarctic this year. Larger than a weasel but smaller than a sno-cat. the new vehicles weigh about three tons and are fitted with two-foot wide rubber and steel cleated tracks. Known as a nodwell, they are powered by six-cylinder diesel engines and have been used with success by oil companies operating in snow and icy conditions in Northern Canada, according to a member of the United States Antarctic Research Programme. Mr E. E. Goodale, the programme’s representative in Christchurch, said that the new machines would be used mainly for transport and sled hauls in and around the McMurdo Sound base. “I don’t think they will be used for traverses," he said.

Painted green, each of the Canadian-built vehicles will add more colour to the present reds and blues used on clothing, machinery, and buildings by the research programme. Although the two machines are slightly different in size, they both accommodate two persons sitting in front cn either side of the motor, with room for rows of facing seats or two bunks behind. As with most vehicles used in the Antarctic, internal heating has been installed. They are at present waiting at Christchurch Airport fol transport to the Antarctic