Getting around in sub-zero temperatures on snow covered roads is a challenge. Engines don't work well at -20º, and tires lose traction on slippery roads. Road salt does not work in below freezing temperatures. Here are three examples of engineering solutions to the problem of transportation challenges in extreme cold.
Engineering for Cycling in Snow and Cold
Snow Bike
I was surprised to see many cyclists on Fairbanks roads and trails at the end of the day. The temperature was about -18ºF, skies were quickly growing dark, and a solid layer of snow covered the bike paths. Riding a bike designed for snow and cold, the riders confidently and quickly made their way home.
This picture was taken at an outdoor store in Fairbanks. Notice the bicycle's large, wide tires. The rim is about twice as wide as a rim for racing wheels. However, the bike is surprisingly light for its size. Insulated arm covers on the handle bars keep arms warm and protected in the cold air.
When I lived in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, I commuted by bike to my job. I am put to shame by the Alaskan bike commuters. My temperature tolerance only went to 20ºF, and my touring bike's thin tires didn't work on snowy roads. Now I see that I didn't have the correct gear.
Block Heater
This truck requires several heat blocks to keep its engine warm.
When a vehicle sits in cold temperatures, oil becomes viscous and engines won't readily start. To keep engines warm and ready to work, vehicles are plugged in to electric outlets when parked. A heat block on the engine does the trick. Public parking spots that I saw have outlets to use, free of charge. I didn't get to a large parking area that houses hundreds or thousands of cars, such as a parking lot at an airport or mall, to notice if all spaces have free outlets available. Maybe a reader can comment on this.
Snow Coach
The Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights, attracts visitors from around the world. Viewing the night sky is best done away from artificial light, but backroads in Alaska can be treacherous. The Chena Hot Springs Resort keeps visitors happy and safe by transporting them by Snow Coach to the top of an isolated hill.
From the outside, the Snow Coach looks like a the car of an amusement ride sitting on top of tractor treads. Inside, comfortable seating holds up to ten people. A sky light allows for arial viewing while keeping warm inside the heated car.
The Snow Coach is an ingenious mixture of engineering, design, and fun.
The Snow Coach