'Speed Matters' even at the South Pole, it seems, as proved by a quartet of Toyota Hilux pick-ups that have recently returned from an expedition to Antarctica.
We're told the specially prepared Toyotas helped the expedition maintain a faster average speed than any comparable effort before it, but as we don't know what that average was, we assume it was still fairly er, glacial.
So we're mainly sharing the news because we like the pictures - but the trip has thrown up some impressive factoids which you might like to redistribute over the turkey leftovers. Here's what Toyota's press release says:
"Faced with extreme weather, average temperatures of below -40oC and peaks of -56oC, altitudes of over 3,400m and the most brutal driving environment imaginable, the Hilux was selected for this remarkable expedition as it combines several exceptional attributes essential to survival on the world's harshest continent.
"Firstly, given the extreme conditions, it has proven very low comparable fuel consumption of 5.65mpg. Even with the use of less energy-efficient Jet 1A fuel, the vehicle engine running 24/7 and running extra heating system constantly on, this figure is 5 to 8 times lower than that achieved by tracked vehicles. This significantly reduces both transported fuel loads and fuel costs (one barrel of oil in Antarctica can cost $10,000). With this fuel efficiency, the expedition could rely on only one refueling point, established some 1,500 km from the journey starting point - Maitri Antarctica station.
"Secondly, the Hilux has a uniquely high load carrying capacity. It combines a low unladen weight of just 2.2 tons with a payload capacity of 1.5 tons and a towing capacity of 3 tons - an essential attribute when carrying the expedition equipment, spare parts and participants, as well as 1,280 litres of fuel per vehicle.
"Thirdly, this expedition maintained a faster average speed than any comparable expedition had previously attained.
"Necessary modifications included the integration of a crane to lift heavy equipment and fuel, the use of Jet 1A fuel with additional lubricants to tackle the extreme cold, revised front/rear suspension and drivetrain, extra heating system, crawler gears, crevasse protection and the fitment of extra large tyres."
So there you have it, only Santa does the South Pole faster.