BAT Project

The British Antarctic Territory (BAT) is defined as the sector of the Antarctic south of latitude 60'S and bounded by longitudes 20'W and 80'W. It is the UK’s largest Overseas Territory covering some 1,709,400 sq km. The BAT is completely self-financing (mainly through the sale of stamps and coins as well as the income tax of those stationed on British research stations in the territory) and receives no funding from the UK government. Much of the revenue generated by the BAT is re-invested in projects which benefit the territory.

In June 2011, EWR received funds from the BAT to undertake a special project. As pioneers in the use of modified tyre-based vehicles in Antarctica, EWR have been charged by the BAT to establish standards of operation for these type of vehicles in Antarctica which are gaining in popularity across the continent thanks to their efficiency, range and environmental credentials.

The first part of the project aims to produce a set of guidelines for tyre-based vehicles in Antarctica which takes into account all aspects of operating these vehicles including construction standards, passenger safety, driver training, conduct, access and environmental protection. The second part of the project is to raise awareness of the guidelines so that they can set a standard. This involves making sure the guidelines are accepted and agreed by the main organisations building vehicles for the Antarctic or operating vehicles in Antarctica as well as producing presentations and quick-reference guides for drivers, mechanics and passengers that can be readily used both before and during visits to Antarctica.

Please visit the  BAT SITE