Colorado Springs, December 4, 2023 – Porsche Colorado Springs is proud to announce our own Joe Brenner (Vice President & General Manger), working alongside Romain Dumas and Porsche, was an integral part of the team that helped set the altitude world record for a vehicle at the Ojos del Salado volcano located in Chile. This historic accomplishment involved an international team hailing from Chile, France, Germany, Canada, Switzerland, and Joe as the sole representative from the United States.
During the expedition, a specially modified Porsche 911, powered by HIF synthetic eFuels, ascended the west ridge of Ojos del Salado, reaching an extraordinary altitude of 22,093 feet (6,734 meters), thereby establishing a new world record.
Supported by HIF Global, Schaeffler Group, Mobil 1, BFGoodrich, and TAG Heuer, the endeavor utilized two extensively adapted Porsche 911 models. These esteemed businesses lent their expertise and advanced technology to bolster the international team, consisting of guides, engineers, drivers, and mountain climbers.
To contextualize the achievement, the pinnacle reached surpasses the summit of Mont Blanc by 1,934 meters, significantly eclipsing the previous altitude record of 6,694 meters set in 2020.
The successful record-breaking attempt featured two modified Porsche 911 models affectionately named “Doris” and “Edith”. Notably, the lighter and more nimble “Edith” variant, piloted by Romain Dumas, secured the record. Based on the current 911 Carrera 4S, this variant retained its stock 443 hp 3.0-liter six-cylinder boxer engine, coupled with the standard seven-speed manual transmission. Mobil 1’s factory-filled lubricants ensured flawless powertrain operation, even under extreme cold climate conditions.
The adeptness of the 911 as a foundation was accentuated by its robust yet lightweight chassis construction, substantial power, and exceptional adaptability to exceedingly high altitudes.
Moreover, both vehicles were equipped with carbon fiber seats and five-point harnesses. Portal axles were integrated to enhance ground clearance, elevating it to 13.7 inches (350 mm) while also optimizing gear ratios for precise and gentle throttle responses at lower speeds. Additionally, the cars featured specialized lightweight yet durable Aramid fiber underbody protection, facilitating maneuverability over rocky terrain.
The lead car received an exceptional technological upgrade, the steer-by-wire system—Space Drive—developed and provided by Schaeffler Group. This system, tailored to meet the rigorous demands of volcanic terrain, offered unparalleled precision and detailed feedback, enabling Romain Dumas to navigate the car precisely, particularly while ascending treacherous and near-vertical slopes.
The final ascent took place on Saturday, December 2nd, with the team embarking at 3:30 am. At 15:58h, the pinnacle and the culmination of this extraordinary journey were triumphantly reached.
Porsche Colorado Springs extends heartfelt congratulations to Joe Brenner, Romain Dumas, the entire international team for this momentous achievement at the Ojos del Salado volcano.
