Dr. Steve Holden's Arctic Adventure in a Fiat Panda

Dr. Steve Holden's Arctic Adventure in a Fiat Panda

Author: Mark Stone February 16, 2026 Duration: 40:34

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I’m joined by Dr Steve Holden, whose love of cars led him on an extraordinary journey of more than 5,000 kilometres to the Arctic Circle and back in a humble Fiat Panda.

Steve talks me through the motivations behind this ambitious adventure, including his decision to buy a far-from-perfect Panda and trust it to cope with some of the harshest driving conditions imaginable. We explore the modifications and careful preparation required to survive extreme cold, from mechanical reliability to planning every detail of the route.

I dig into Steve’s experiences of driving in sub-zero temperatures, the techniques needed to stay safe on ice and snow, and the contrasts he observed in driving cultures along the way. Beyond the challenge itself, Steve also reflects on the trip's deeper purpose: to raise awareness and funds for Myeloma UK.

This episode is a story of endurance, preparation, and determination, proving that big adventures do not always require big cars.

___

https://pod.link/1656058575

Visit our sponsors

GAZ Shocks 116 Trophy

Hodder Tyres

Tarox Brakes

SAS Autos

Listen Now

Mentioned in this episode:

Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast Sponsors

GAZ Shocks - Home of the 116 Trophy and the 120 Coupe Cup. Find them at www.gazshocks.com | Hodder Tyres - Trusted brands, every season, every condition. Visit www.hoddertyres.co.uk | Tarox Brakes - The Art of Slowing Down, precision-built in Italy. Check out www.tarox.com | SAS Autos - Experts in high-quality servicing and classic car restoration. Discover more at sas-autos.co.uk


There's a particular kind of conversation that happens when the engine is off and the real talk begins. Backseat Driver captures that feeling, hosted by Mark Stone from his home in England's north-west. Mark's own journey from competitive driving in the eighties to decades of motoring journalism and television gives him a unique vantage point. He's not just a reporter; he's lived the life, and that genuine enthusiasm for anything with an engine comes through in every discussion. This podcast is built around Mark's conversations with the prominent figures who shape the automotive world, from legendary engineers and designers to champion racers and behind-the-scenes innovators. You'll hear stories that rarely make it into magazine articles, personal reflections on iconic cars, and unfiltered opinions on where the industry is headed. It's for anyone who finds the culture of motoring as compelling as the machinery itself. Tune in for a deep, relaxed dive into the passion that drives us all, hosted by someone who has truly been there and done it.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Backseat Driver
Podcast Episodes
Lombard Rally Festival Revesby Pt. 1 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 44:24
Join me, Mark Stone, on the Backseat Driver Podcast as we dive into the world of historic and modern rally cars at the exciting Lombard Rally Festival Revesby in Lincolnshire.We start with highlights from the Lombard Ral…
Bridge House Tea Rooms 50th Classic Car Night Celebration [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 26:53
It's me Mark Stone, at Bridge House Tea Rooms with an exciting celebration of the 50th Classic Car Night. In this episode, I chat with John Wright, who spearheads this unique event supporting North West Air Ambulance and…
Lee Tombling and Alexander McCabe on Trucking and Literature [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 42:31
In this episode of The Backseat Driver Podcast, we welcome back our esteemed guest, truck driver Lee Tombling, alongside the intriguing newcomer, Alexander McCabe, who brings a unique perspective as a former legal expert…
Qal Shah Discusses Cutting-Edge Car Tuning Techniques [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 34:22
In this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Qal Shah, an expert in car tuning from BHP UK. Throughout our conversation, Cal provided fascinating insights into the evolution of…
Richard Usher's Immersive Tribute to British Automobiles [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:38
In this episode of the Backstreet Driver Podcast, I had the pleasure of hosting Richard Usher, the visionary behind the Great British Car Journey. Together, we embarked on a captivating journey through British automotive…
Holme Moss Hill Climb 2024 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 39:22
Join me, Mark Stone, as I explore the thrilling Holme Moss Hill Climb 2024, the final recreation of this historic event. We start by delving into the History of Hill Climb Racing and how it has evolved. Then, enjoy exclu…
Bryn Pearce on Lightning House's Impact on Motorsport [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:44
In this Backseat Driver Podcast, I have the pleasure of sitting with Bryn Pearce, representing Lightning House Motorsport Promotions and Events. Bryn takes us on an exhilarating journey through Lightning House's inceptio…
Goodwood Festival of Speed 2024 Special [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 30:04
It's me, Mark Stone, bringing you an exhilarating episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, recorded live from the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed! This event is a paradise for motorsport enthusiasts, and we've captured th…