In a groundbreaking partnership, Gebrüder Weiss, a prominent logistics company, has teamed up with the Peak Evolution Team to embark on an extraordinary mission in the Chilean Andes. Their ambitious objective? To transport a cutting-edge solar-powered truck to the summit of Ojos del Salado, the world’s highest active volcano, standing at an awe-inspiring altitude of 6,893 meters.

A remarkable project is taking shape in the Chilean Andes, featuring the world’s tallest volcano, a team aiming to conquer it using a solar-powered e-truck, and a daring bid for a world record. The Peak Evolution Team, comprised of three Swiss adventurers, is determined to scale the formidable heights of Ojos del Salado with a solar-powered truck meticulously designed for this very purpose. Gebrüder Weiss, their primary sponsor and logistics partner, is poised to play a pivotal role in ensuring the project’s triumphant success. The logistics giant has successfully shipped the sophisticated vehicle and all the expedition equipment to Chile via sea freight, with Ojos del Salado as the ultimate destination. If the team reaches the summit, they will etch their names in the record books, as no vehicle has ever ventured this high before.

Frank Haas, Head of Corporate Brand Strategy & Communications at Gebrüder Weiss, notes, “While this solar-powered vehicle cannot yet replace a conventional truck due to its limited payload capacity, it signifies a new direction for alternative drives in the future.” This solar-powered multi-purpose vehicle boasts more traction capacity than an average 40-ton semi-truck, making it especially suitable for navigating challenging terrains. Gebrüder Weiss has a track record of sponsoring similar pioneering ventures, motivated by their commitment to shaping the future of mobility. Haas further elucidates, “As the world’s oldest logistics company, we are dedicated to helping mold the future of mobility.”

For nearly four years, the trio of Swiss innovators—David Pröschel, Patrik Koller, and David Koller—has tirelessly worked towards realizing their vision of the multi-purpose truck. By embarking on an unprecedented expedition to uncharted vehicular territory, they aim to showcase the efficiency of alternative drive technologies. Patrik Koller, Head of Finance and co-developer of the Peak Evolution Team, asserts, “Our vehicle enables us to tackle even the most demanding transport tasks, whether in mining operations or the construction of high-altitude solar power plants, all while maintaining environmental compatibility and economic efficiency. This expedition will underscore the commercial viability of our innovative product.” The collaboration with Gebrüder Weiss, a partner who shares their vision of sustainable mobility, promises mutual benefits, especially for an international transport company ready to embrace a forward-looking future.

Executing this ambitious transport operation demanded comprehensive expertise and adaptability. Recognizing that electrically powered vehicles are categorized as hazardous goods, Gebrüder Weiss specialists ingeniously designed a double container floor to secure the expedition equipment while facilitating the safe disconnection of the vehicle’s battery. Moreover, meticulous documentation protocols were followed to meet the stringent safety and customs regulations both at sea and in the destination country.

This daring mission will be documented by an award-winning Swiss filmmaker, Claudio von Planta, and his team, ensuring that this extraordinary journey is preserved for generations to come.

In the heart of the Chilean Andes, a pioneering expedition unfolds, pushing the boundaries of what is achievable with solar-powered innovation. The partnership between the logistics powerhouse Gebrüder Weiss and the intrepid Peak Evolution Team promises not only to reach unprecedented heights but also to illuminate a sustainable and visionary path forward in the realm of mobility.

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