Electric Glacier Tour Vehicles
Pursuit Launched Its World's First Electric Glacier Tourism Vehicle
Adam Harrie — May 20, 2026
Pursuit launched the world’s first electric glacier Ice Explorer on the Athabasca Glacier in Jasper National Park. Built from the chassis up by Manitoba-based Noble Northern, the vehicle features a frame more than 50% lighter than the original diesel version. The electric glacier tourism vehicle charges through onboard bifacial solar panels and regenerative braking, with geofencing that automatically manages speed and applies braking in designated glacier zones.
Based on modeled comparisons, the vehicle can cut 200 to 300 kg of CO₂ per day compared to a diesel Ice Explorer operating on the same route. Pursuit also replaced its Columbia Icefield diesel generator with propane, cutting the facility’s carbon footprint by more than 30%.
Pursuit shows how building an electric vehicle for one of the world’s most sensitive terrains can reduce emissions while making the guest experience more immersive.
