The Chariot from Lost in Space was based on a modified
1965 SnowCat. It was modified at the factory to Irwin's
specifications for use on the series.
The original Chariot still exists today in the backyard
of a long time Californian fan, Chris Tietz. The story of
how it got to its final resting place is nothing short of
amazing. In the early 70s Chris was skiing in Big Bear California
when he and a friend noticed the owner of the slope was using
a snow hauling vehicle which looked remarkly like the Chariot
from Lost in Space. Closer inspection and enquiries confirmed that
it was indeed the same Chariot but that it had been extensively
modified for work in the snow.
In the mid-70s when the slope went out of business Chris was able
to purchase the Chariot and relocate it to his backyard where today
it is well protected and is in the process of being restored contrary
to previous reports of neglect.
Chris recently revealed to the Museum of Lost in Space Collectibles that he had
approached Jeff Story from New York regarding the purchase of
interior panels to complete the Chariot restoration. At the time
of writing no deal between the two has been struck but Chris remains
hopeful.