At nearly 7,000 meters of altitude, oxygen is scarce, temperatures drop drastically below zero, and the volcanic terrain forgives no mistakes. Ojos del Salado, the highest active volcano on the planet, is the ultimate testing ground for both the human body and machines. It was in this unforgiving setting where, in November 2025, Swiss extreme athlete Jiří Zak rewrote motorsport history once again, achieving a new Guinness World Record that proves 100% electric mobility can operate at the very edges of the Earth’s atmosphere.
The Challenge: Pushing Power to the Limit
Reaching the West Summit at 6,721 meters is a superlative feat under any circumstances. Doing so aboard a Stark VARG EX electric motorcycle adds an unprecedented layer of technical complexity. Extreme cold and brutal altitude are the worst enemies of battery performance and traction on loose terrain. However, Jiří demonstrated masterful riding, taking electric technology to a never-before-recorded altitude and opening a new chapter in motorized high-mountain exploration.
A Legacy of Resilience in the Puna
This milestone is no coincidence, but the result of years of evolution and refinement in the very same setting. For Jiří, Ojos del Salado has become his personal laboratory. This recent world record marks his fifth altitude mark on the volcano, building a historical trajectory that reflects unwavering resilience:
- 2020: 6,546 m (Yamaha WR 450 F)
- 2021: 6,646 m (KTM 450 EXC-F)
- 2022: 6,501 m (Yamaha Tenere 700)
- 2023: 6,721 m (KTM 500 EXC-F) – First time on the West Summit.
- November 2025: 6,721 m (Stark VARG EX) – First time on the West Summit with 100% electric propulsion.
The Refuge at the Edge of the World
Behind every elite athlete operating in extreme conditions, there is a support system that cannot fail. In such a hostile environment, the success of the day depends on the recovery of the night. A warm dining dome to plan strategy, high-level food to recharge the body, and a storm-proof base camp are the elements that allow an athlete to focus 100% of their energy on the record.
“Ojos del Salado is an unforgiving environment where you need an expedition team you can fully trust. I have achieved all my records on this volcano, and every single one was with the continuous support of HME as my base camp.”
— Jiří Zak
The HME Seal: World-Class Logistical Support
For us, hosting Jiří Zak and the Stark Future team goes beyond providing a service; it is welcoming family home. Guillermo, CEO of HME, sums it up clearly: “Our mission is to provide a safe haven in one of the most hostile places on the planet. Seeing a friend and elite athlete push the limits of human and mechanical capability is our greatest reward. We are honored to be his trusted base in the Andes.”
At HME, we combine our deep knowledge of the Chilean territory with precision logistics, creating the perfect platform for world milestones to happen safely. We congratulate Jiří Zak for proving, once again, that limits are meant to be broken.
- Achievement: Guinness World Record for Altitude on an Electric Motorcycle.
- Athlete: Jiří Zak (Switzerland).
- Vehicle: Stark VARG EX.
- Altitude Reached: 6,721 meters (West Summit, Ojos del Salado).
- Base Camp: High Mountain Expeditions.
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Whether you plan to set a new record or achieve your next great summit in the Andes, discover our logistical support and base camp services. Let’s build your route to the top together.
