Utility vehicle manufacturer Polaris (NYSE: PII) has launched a new electric 4-wheeler that it calls “the hardest-working, smoothest-riding UTV ever built.” The RANGER XP Kinetic features a new electric powertrain that Polaris developed in partnership with Zero Motorcycles.

Polaris points out that an electric powertrain offers many advantages for off-road utility vehicles. “It delivers smooth, precise control at low speeds, so customers will have full control and confidence while towing, backing up to a trailer or spraying a fence line. When it’s time to have some fun, the instantaneous torque also delivers quicker acceleration for an exhilarating ride.”

The absence of engine noise enables en route conversations, stealthy trips to hunting spots, and quiet operation around horses and other livestock. Fewer moving parts means less maintenance—scheduled maintenance costs are expected to be 70% less compared to similar gas-powered vehicles.

“Time and again, Polaris has demonstrated our commitment to rider-driven innovation, delivering what our riders need and want, going beyond what they imagined was possible,” said Mike Speetzen, CEO of Polaris.

“RANGER XP Kinetic is built for our hard-working customers who are always looking for ways to maximize their productivity,” said Steve Menneto, President of Polaris Off-Road. “RANGER XP Kinetic unlocks the benefits of electrification to enable these customers to drive efficiently and get more done.”

“Electrifying an already class-leading product is a very complicated undertaking, but with Polaris we had the advantage of starting with both the best UTV in the industry and a very talented and collaborative team,” said Sam Paschel, CEO of Zero Motorcycles. “The combination of Zero Motorcycles’ technology, our passion for electrification, and Polaris’s dedication to consumer-led innovation has created an all-new electric Ranger that delivers an incredible rider experience.”

The 3-seat RANGER XP Kinetic is offered in two trims. The $24,999 Premium variant has a 14.9 kWh battery pack and a range of up to 45 miles; the $29,999 Ultimate trim boasts 29.8 kWh of battery capacity and a range of up to 80 miles. The Ultimate trim also features a 7-inch infotainment screen and dash-mounted speakers.

Both versions offer 110 hp and 140 lb-ft of torque. Payload capacity is 1,250 lbs, and towing capacity is 2,500 lbs. This EV is well-equipped for off-road use, with 14 inches of ground clearance, 10 inches of suspension travel, and 29-inch, 8-ply Pro Armor X-Terrain tires. A 12 V cargo box outlet is handy for powering accessories like sprayers or charging portable batteries. The XP Kinetic is compatible with 95% of existing RANGER XP 1000 accessories.

The RANGER XP Kinetic comes standard with a combined Level 1/Level 2 charging cable. The factory-installed onboard charging rate is 3 kW for the Premium trim and 6 kW for the Ultimate trim. Rates can be boosted to 6 kW for Premium and 9 kW for Ultimate for up to 50% faster charge times. Polaris has announced an agreement with California-based Qmerit, a nationwide network of certified electrical installers, to provide a convenient home charging installation solution.

The RANGER XP Kinetic is now available for reservations, and shipments are to begin in summer 2022.

Source: Polaris