In a pioneering development coming from Finland, the field of electric vehicles sees an exhilarating new addition: a snowmobile which can be used every day of the year, thanks to innovative bidirectional charging technology. This transformative advancement has been brought about by the collaboration between InterControl Oy, a leader in charging solutions, and Aurora Powertrains Oy, manufacturers of the groundbreaking electric snowmobile, the eSled Aurora.

Introduced at the Nordic EV Summit in Oslo, the eSled Aurora is setting a new standard for how snowmobiles function both in terms of technology and environmental impact. Typically perceived as leisure vehicles meant only for snowy terrains and colder seasons, snowmobiles are undergoing a significant transformation. The eSled Aurora not just caters to winter sports enthusiasts but also serves as a practical utility vehicle year-round.

What sets the eSled Aurora apart is its electric propulsion. Emitting zero CO2 and devoid of any odorous gasoline fumes, this electric snowmobile is described by Matti Autioniemi, CEO of Aurora Powertrains Oy, as a pleasure to drive. Its near-silent operation ensures that it doesn’t disturb the tranquility of nature, making it an ideal choice for those who are environmentally conscious.

The economic aspect of the eSled Aurora is equally impressive. It is reported to consume electricity at the rate of only 21 kWh per 100 km, which can cost under 2€—a mere fraction compared to traditional petrol-based engines. The minimal servicing requirements further augment its cost-effectiveness, enhancing its appeal to various sectors, including ski resorts and adventure travel businesses.

Perhaps the most revolutionary feature of the eSled Aurora is its vehicle-to-grid (V2G) capability, a first in the snowmobile industry. Through its collaboration with InterControl Oy and leveraging their Latinki 11 DC charger, Aurora Powertrains has enabled the snowmobile to function as an energy storage unit. This is particularly notable because it allows the snowmobile to store cheap or surplus electricity—be it from solar power or low-rate phases of the energy market—and later supply it back to the grid or use it according to the owner’s needs.

This bidirectional charging not only underscores energy efficiency but also amplifies the utility of snowmobiles beyond traditional recreational use. In the off-season when they would typically sit idle, these electric snowmobiles can contribute to energy storage and emergency power solutions, particularly useful for public sector institutions and enterprises reliant on constant power supply.

The collaboration also highlights the importance of standardisation and compatibility in charging solutions. As InterControl Oy mentioned, their partnership with both Aurora Powertrains and Ambibox GmbH is vital in facilitating a shared approach to developing sustainable V2G applications that could extend beyond just the automotive industry.

This initiative not only redefines the utility of snowmobiles but also exemplifies how traditional seasonal vehicles can be repurposed into year-round assets through technological innovation and strategic collaborations. With such advancements, both Aurora Powertrains and InterControl are paving the way for more sustainable and economically efficient solutions in the vehicular and energy sectors.