Three Mitsubishi L200s and two Shogun (aka Pajero)SUVs will be put through their paces on unforgiving terrain, from the Arctic Tundra to Slimbridge, Gloucestershire, UK, following Bewick’s swans migratory route across 11 different countries.
The five vehicles have been delivered to the team behind the innovative expedition, complete with modifications carried out at the Mitsubishi Specialist Vehicles Operations Center in Cirencester, where they have been fitted with additional power sources for charging equipment, a 240-volt converter, off-road tires and roof racks.
Flying alongside the swans, via paramotor, will be Sacha Dench, Head of Content at Wildfowl & Wetland Trust’s (WWT).
“Flight of the Swans is a major logistical challenge, but I’m so looking forward to it”, said Dench. “Up in the air in my paramotor, I cross some pretty inaccessible terrain, so I’m glad to know I have the support of Mitsubishi and my support team can reach me if I’m grounded unexpectedly. Our Mitsubishis have to be versatile. One minute they could be a media hub, broadcasting live to the internet via satellite. The next, we’ll pull out awnings and turn our camp into a reception venue to share food with local villagers.“
The expedition, which will start in September and last around 10 weeks, has many high profile names backing it up, including Sir David Attenborough and Sir Ranulph Fiennes.
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