6 Best Electric 4×4 Utility Vehicles


The world is growing and with it so are people’s awareness of themselves. People are becoming much more conscious of their carbon footprint. People want more economically friendly ways for their daily commute as well as for their off-roading vehicles and some of the top UTV brands have answered the call, as well as one newcomer to the Powersports game.

While gas-powered engines have long dominated the UTV market, electric vehicles are starting to make a stand. Electric vehicles have been around for quite a while, with some of the earlier releases in 2009, however, it isn’t until rather recently that they have been making more of a splash in the market.

These vehicles have really been coming to fruition mainly because technology has improved enough now for them to be more reliable and more versatile than they once were.

Because of their various achievements, hunters and eco-friendly consumers alike are starting to invest their money more and more with electric utility vehicles.

The Best Electric UTV Side-by-Sides are…

  • Polaris Ranger XP Kinetic Ultimate
  • Polaris Ranger EV
  • Polaris Ranger EV LI-ION
  • Volcon Stag
  • Hisun Sector E1
  • Textron Prowler EV IS

Join me now, as we look at the six best electric utility vehicles on the market, what we can expect from them, as well as some other tidbits of information that one would be wise to know before purchasing an electronic utility vehicle.

Should You Buy an Electric Utility Vehicle?

If you are in the market for a Side-by-Side, you’ll come across the question, “Should you buy a gas-powered or electric utility vehicle?”

Since you stumbled across this page, you’re likely already intrigued by the thought of an electric UTV.

Benefits of an Electric Side-by-Side

Some benefits of buying an electric are the same as buying an electric car. First, the quietness of driving your EV side-by-side is impressive when you’re out riding. Not only do you get to enjoy the peacefulness of nature, but you can easily talk to your passengers without fighting the loud noise of the engine. 

This is a massive benefit for hunters, as they can get to where they want to go without giving away their presence to possible prey.

Another advantage that electric UTVs have over gas-powered UTVs is the lack of strong fumes/exhaust. No more inhaling those strong smells. 

With new technology coming year after year, EV batteries are improving. They are holding more power on a single charge, and the charge time is getting shorter. Plus, you don’t have to spend money on fueling up every time you go out. 

Drawbacks of Electric UTVs

Despite all the great things that electric utility vehicles have to offer, we do need to look at the negatives when it comes to non-gasoline vehicles. 

First is the lack of speed and reduction in power. It’s no surprise that a battery-operated vehicle is going to have the same amount of speed and power that a gas-run engine will have. 

Almost all electric UTVs are powered by lithium-ion batteries that can deliver up to 80 miles per hour, while many gas-powered ones can go as fast as 150 miles per hour. That’s a big difference. But then again, are you the type of person who wants to go faster than 80 mph? You may be completely satisfied with the speed and power of an electric utility vehicle. 

The last drawback we’ll mention of these UTVs is that they are not as available as gas-powered ones, and they typically cost more.

Visit our UTV Page for more great content!

Top 6 Electric UTV Side-by-Sides

I recently had to update this post because Polaris came out with my newest top pick for electric UTV’s. Their most recent model is the Ranger XP Kinetic Ultimate. Let’s start here and discuss everything this electric side-by-side has to offer.

Polaris Ranger XP Kinetic Ultimate Side-by-Side

Specifications:2023 Polaris Ranger XP Kinetic EV
Motor Type:Internal Permanent magnet AC Motor
Battery Lithium Ion, 14.9 kWh Nominal
Battery Amp hoursNot stated
Horsepower110 hp
Torque140
Max SpeedNot Stated
Estimated Range80 Miles
Charge Time 110V Outlet = 18 hrs. / 220V = 9 hrs / Level2 charger = 3 hrs
On Board Charging3 kW
DrivetrainAWD/2WD/VersaTrac Turf Mode
Transmission:Gates Synchronous Belt H/L/N/P 
Suspension Front:Dual A-Arm 10 in. (25.4 cm) Travel
Suspension Rear:Dual A-Arm, IRS 10 in. (25.4 cm) Travel
Brakes Front:4-Wheel Hydraulic Disc with Dual-Bore Front Calipers
Brakes Rear:4-Wheel Hydraulic Disc with Dual-Bore Front Calipers
Tires Front:29 x 9-14; PRO ARMOR X-TERRAIN
Tires Rear:29 x 11-14; PRO ARMOR X-TERRAIN
Overall length width height:120 x 62.5 x 78 inches
Maximum Ground Clearance:14”
Wheelbase:81”
Box Capacity: 1,250 lbs
Hitch Towing Rating2,500 lbs
Curb Weight:Not Stated
Dry Weight1,754 lbs
Seats3
Warranty:
ColorsIcy White Pearl / Camo
Price:$29,999


The Polaris Ranger has been a reliable workhorse for over two decades, serving countless owners in various tasks. However, a new era has dawned with the introduction of the 2023 Polaris Ranger XP Kinetic, an all-electric utility side-by-side. This vehicle, born from a collaboration between Polaris and Zero Motorcycles, signifies the future of side-by-sides.

This isn’t just a typical electric vehicle; it’s a genuine Ranger, sharing most components with its gasoline-powered counterpart. It maintains impressive off-road capabilities with 14 inches of ground clearance, 10 inches of suspension travel, and robust 29-inch tires.

Yet, it’s powered by a potent permanent magnet AC motor, producing a remarkable 110 hp and 140 lb.-ft. of torque, making it the most powerful production utility side-by-side available. Its cargo box capacity exceeds that of its gas-powered sibling, boasting 1,250 pounds.

The Kinetic delivers exceptional performance, accelerating to 40 mph in under five seconds thanks to instantaneous torque. The vehicle’s control is impressive, thanks to a cog-belt transmission that ensures smooth, controllable power delivery.

The Kinetic is available in two trims: Premium and Ultimate. The latter offers double the range with a dual-battery setup, promising nearly 90 miles of travel. Polaris has taken into account extreme weather conditions with a battery heating system to maintain performance in cold temperatures.

Charging the Kinetic is convenient, whether through a standard 110V outlet or a faster 220V outlet. Moreover, it supports Level 2 charging, allowing rapid replenishment.

Ride Command+

This incredible electric side-by-side also come equipped with Ride Command+. Ride Command + is a comprehensive digital infotainment and GPS system tailored for Polaris UTVs (Utility Task Vehicles) and other powersports vehicles.

This advanced system greatly enhances the riding experience by offering a range of valuable features. It boasts built-in GPS navigation, empowering riders to plan routes, track their location, and locate points of interest, facilitating exploration of new trails and effortless navigation through unfamiliar terrain.

Its interactive touchscreen display provides easy access to navigation, vehicle diagnostics, and entertainment functions, with glove-friendly usability. Bluetooth connectivity enables hands-free communication and seamless access to smartphone calls, messages, and music.

Real-time vehicle data, including speed, engine RPM, and fuel levels, keeps riders informed about their UTV’s status. Group ride tracking, trail maps, weather updates, audio integration, camera support, and app integration are among the many features Ride Command + can offer, enhancing safety, connectivity, and overall enjoyment during rides.

Overall

This all-electric Ranger isn’t just a gimmick; it’s a practical tool. Owners can expect significant savings on maintenance costs, approximately $3,500 over five years. The Kinetic doesn’t require oil changes or CVT belt replacements, all while providing more power and torque.

It’s the best Ranger Polaris has ever produced, and its electric nature doesn’t compromise its utility. Expect to see Ranger Kinetics in action across various applications soon.

Polaris Ranger EV

Specifications:Polaris Ranger EV
Motor Type:Single AC Induction
Battery Voltage48
Battery Amp hoursNot stated
Horsepower30
TorqueNot stated
Max SpeedNot Stated
Estimated Range45 Miles
Charge Time 
On Board ChargingYes
DrivetrainSelectable 4WD
Transmission:Fully Auto CVT
Suspension Front:McPherson Strut W/9”
Suspension Rear:Dual A-arms W/9”
Brakes Front:Dual hydraulic discs
Brakes Rear:Dual hydraulic discs
Tires Front:25X9-12
Tires Rear:25×10-12
Overall length width height:110”X58”x73”
Maximum Ground Clearance:10”
Wheelbase:72”
Payload Capacity:1,000 lbs
Towing Capacity:1500 lbs
Curb Weight:Not Stated
Entry Weight1350 lbs
Seats2
Warranty:3 Years
ColorsAvalanche Grey, Camp
Price:$25,000

Engine & Battery:

The Polaris Ranger EV, like almost all of the electronic utility vehicles that will be listed here, comes with a single AC induction motor. Now some people might not really know what a single AC induction motor is.

So here is a brief overview of this motor type, and what that means for our electric vehicles and their performance.

When it comes to AC motors there are two types of them, induction (asynchronous) and synchronous motors.

An induction motor relies on a small difference in speed between the stator rotating magnetic field and the rotor shaft speed called slip to induce rotor current in the rotor AC winding.

The AC power supplied to the stator of the motor produces a magnetic field that in turns rotates within the motor.

The rotation of the magnetic field will then rotate the rotor shaft within the motor. This helps produces the energy needed to power the engine.

The rotor shaft, however, will never be able to rotate synchronously, or at the same speed as, the magnetic field produced by the stator. This difference in speed is what causes the “slip” mentioned above.

There is another type of AC motor as well, however, it isn’t really used in UTVs, it is a synchronous motor.

This synchronous motor doesn’t rely on slip-induction in order to operate. It uses permanent magnets that help to produce torque at exactly the same speed as the magnetic field, therefore, making synchronous speed.

To better understand your UTVs induction motor however you can check out this video that describes in better detail, how a induction motor works.

So with all that being said, the Polaris Ranger EV comes with an AC induction motor that produces right around 30 horsepower.

The battery is a 48 Volt battery so it is a pretty average sized battery itself. I will say though if you are looking at buying an older version of this vehicle, particularly around the years of 2010-2011 to beware of the batteries.

There are many different reports of batteries having issues with these particular years’ models.

Looking at the engine numbers you might be wondering why anyone would pay $11,299 for that small of an engine. Especially when they could get a gas powered ranger that comes with more power like with the Ranger 570 which is actually cheaper than the EV.

Well, a lot of the people using these electric powered UTVs like them because they are quiet. They are great to take out when you are hunting, in order to sneak up on your prey without alerting them.

The quietness of the vehicle is really its main sell point to hunters, as well as the money you can save on gas.

Suspension:

Other than the difference in specs for the engine, the Polaris Ranger EV is actually quite well rounded. While 10″ ground clearance isn’t the best we’ve seen it certainly is not the worst and is actually consistent with the Ranger 500 and 570 models.

It has a very solid suspension, using the Macpherson Strut suspension. This suspension is great because it uses the top of a telescopic damper as the upper steering pivot.

This helps to really cushion the blows from any type of rough terrain, rocks, or whatever else your vehicle might traverse. With the standard Dual A-arm suspension in the back, the Ranger EV is a pretty smooth ride.

Drive-train:

Another really cool aspect about this vehicle that I personally like is that you can pick from three different drive trains it has two-wheel drive, All-wheel-drive, as well as a turf mode.

The turf mode is what I like best because the worst thing about UTVs is that they can be so hard on your grass.

So with the Ranger EV, you can let the kids ride around the yard on turf mode and not have to worry about them putting track marks everywhere and tearing up your yard. It really gives you that peace of mind option.

Range/Ride Time:

The one thing that I dislike about this vehicle, and most electric UTVs, is the range time on the vehicle. With a gas-powered vehicle, you can fill up the tank and then bring some extra gasoline along just in case and basically be out on the trails all day.

With the Polaris Ranger EV, however, you only get around 45 miles of range, per charge. Not too mention that many of the various forums I have read about this particular model say that you really don’t even get the full 45 miles.

So while it may be quiet, smooth, and turf friendly you really can’t expect to get anywhere far from home without having to go back and charge the vehicle back up.

That kind of inconvenience really does hurt the vehicles selling point in my eyes. Primarily because I’m the typical kind of rider who likes to go out with my side-by-side and ride it all afternoon and even into the evening, and you just can’t really do that with a 45-mile limit.

Towing/Cargo Capacity:

Another thing that rubs me wrong here is the cargo and towing capacity of the vehicle. While the Ranger EV does have a cargo bed that can carry 500 lbs, which is actually average, the towing capacity is only around 1500 lbs.

So if you are looking for a vehicle to do some heavy yard work around the farm or ranch, or need to tow anything, this really wouldn’t be the best vehicle to go for.

Take those low towing specs and then add it to the low range time for the vehicle and you can easily see this vehicle and many of its electric comrades are not built for hard, intensive labor.

Warranty:

Those are really the only negative things I have to say about the vehicle though.

I do like the 3-year warranty that Polaris is giving on this vehicle. That is really nice especially with all the extra working parts for the electrical side of things here.

All in all, if you are just looking for a quiet, vehicle to go hunting in that will save you on your gas expense then this would be a viable way to go.

Polaris Ranger EV LI-ION Side-by Side

Specifications:Polaris Ranger EV LI-ION
Motor Type:Single AC Induction
Battery Voltage48
Battery Amp hoursNot stated
Horsepower30
Torque220
Max SpeedNot Stated
Estimated RangeNot Stated
Charge Time6-8 hours
On Board ChargingYes
DrivetrainSelectable 4WD
Transmission:Fully Auto CVT
Suspension Front:McPherson Strut w/9”
Suspension Rear:Dual A-arms w/9”
Brakes Front:Dual hydraulic discs
Brakes Rear:Dual hydraulic discs
Tires Front:25X9-12
Tires Rear:25×10-12
Overall length width height:110”X58”x73”
Maximum Ground Clearance:10”
Wheelbase:72.”
Cargo Capacity:100lbs
Towing Capacity:1500lbs
Curb Weight:2831lbs
Empty Weight1328lbs
Seats2
Warranty:3 Years
ColorsCamo
Price:$22,999

Battery:

While at first glance this UTV seems to be the same as the previously mentioned Ranger EV, the big difference is in the battery.

The Polaris Ranger EV uses a lead-acid battery while the Polaris Ranger EV LI-ION uses a lithium-ion battery. Because of that special battery, this vehicle is almost double that of the Polaris Ranger EV.

Allow me to explain just why this lithium-ion battery is so much more expensive, and why it really is the better choice between the two models.

While lead-acid batteries, like the one used in the Ranger EV, are efficient and work just fine, they are usually quite cheaper to make and install.

The average price and installation of a lithium-ion battery can range from anywhere from $5000-15,000 depending on the size and system of the battery.

Lead-acid batteries also have a much shorter life-span than their lithium-ion counterparts. Batteries tend to live their lives in “cycles.” They degrade over time and become less effective as they grow older.

Discharging your battery to power your side-by-side, home, or almost any other appliance and then recharging it whether that is through means of solar power, or your typical charger from the grid will count as one “cycle.”

While studies vary as to how many cycles each battery has, they are all conclusive to the fact that lithium-ion batteries last much longer than lead-acid batteries do.

Not to mention that lithium-ion batteries are practically maintenance free, while lead-acid batteries need to be constantly checked up on and maintained to ensure good and lasting health.

Lithium Batteries are also much more effective than lead-acid batteries are. Lithium batteries are 95% effective or more, meaning that 95% or more of the battery’s energy can actually be used.

Compare that to the 80-85% effectiveness of lead-acid batteries and you begin to see the big difference between these to batteries. Those rates of effectiveness also correlate directly to the batteries capacity.

So not only are lithium-ion batteries more effective but they also have a higher capacity compared to lead-acid batteries.

There is also something called depth of charge with batteries. The depth of charge is basically how much you can drain a battery without damaging the battery.

Have you ever had a friend tell you that letting your phone get all the way down to 0% isn’t healthy for the battery? Well, they are correct.

A lithium-ion battery typically uses 85% or more of its charge in a single cycle, and that is fine. However, you shouldn’t allow a lead-acid battery to discharge past 50% because doing so will negatively affect the batteries life-span.

So those are the biggest differences between lithium-ion batteries and lead-acid batteries. As you can tell lithium-ion batteries are superior to lead-acid batteries in every way except for the price.

That being said, with a lithium-ion powered electric UTV such as the Ranger EV LI-ION you will be able to get more power, more charge, and a maintenance-free battery with this vehicle.

All those things are really shown by the specifications chart as well.

Range/Ride Time:

The Polaris Ranger EV LI-ION has a 50 mile range limit which is five miles more when compared to the Ranger EV model.

While it does not seem like much, five miles could mean the difference between getting the vehicle back home, and you having to walk five miles back home just to return with the truck to haul your vehicle back to a charging port.

Engine:

The engine on these two vehicles is the exact same. They both produce 30 horsepower and have 48-volt batteries. This model does give some stats as to the torque with 229 ft-lb of torque for the vehicle.

Suspension:

The suspension is also the same as the Ranger EV with its MacPherson strut suspension, so you can expect to have just as a smooth ride with this model as you would with the Ranger EV.

The ground clearance is also the standard Ranger clearance of 10″.

Transmission:

The transmission on the Ranger EV LI-ION as well as the Ranger EV is a fully automated CVT. Which tells me there is still a CVT belt to be looked after here.

I have stated my distaste for CVT belt transmissions in the past, just because of their constant need to be replaced once they wear out, which can be often when riding UTVs hard off-road.

While I don’t think they will need to be replaced as often with the electric UTVs as with the gas powered ones, they are still present, not bad, just not my personal favorite type of transmission is all.

Warranty:

It is nice to see that once again Polaris offers a 3-year warranty on this vehicle, that is especially nice when dealing with a battery as expensive as the lithium-ion ones that this vehicle utilizes.

Volcon Stag GL Electric UTV

Experience all the fun and adventures of a typical side-by-side, but without the loudness of a gas engine. The Volcon Stag is a great all electric UTV and is growing in popularity.

One of my favorite features about the Volcon Stag are the two built-in cameras so you can capture all your adventures. Plus, if you download their app, you can share your adventures live with others.

It’s important to note that this vehicle is typically used for utility tasks, although many use it for exploring and play as well.

Specifications:Volcon Stag
Motor Type:107kw electrice motor
Battery 42kWh battery
Horsepower143hp
Torque265
Max Speed55
Estimated Range100 Miles
Charge Time6 hours
Charging
DrivetrainRWD
Transmission:Direct Drive
Suspension Front:Dual A-arms w/20”
Suspension Rear:Dual A-arms w/20”
Brakes Front:Dual hydraulic discs
Brakes Rear:Dual hydraulic discs
Tires Front:
Tires Rear:
Overall width and height:64″x155″
Maximum Ground Clearance:14”
Wheelbase:121”
Payload Capacity:1,545 lbs.
Towing Capacity:2,000lbs
Curb Weight:Not Stated
Empty Weight2600lbs
Seats4
Warranty:2 Years
ColorsGrey
Price:$41,999

Battery:

The Volcon Stag uses electric propulsion components from GM and included the following..

  • High-voltage power distribution
  • motor inverter
  • DC to DC converter
  • battery high-voltage conector
  • battery cooling reservoir
  • on-board charging
  • HV modules coolant pump

The company puts high value on their ability to offer high performance with adventure all in an electric utility vehicle. A single charge will last riders over 100 miles, while a digital screen will keep track of important battery stats for the driver.

The charge time isn’t the best on this electric UTV. When using level 2 charging, it can take up to 6 hours to fully charge.

Range/Ride Time:

When it comes to performance, the Stag boasts remarkable specifications. Achieving a top speed of 50 mph and a range of up to 100 miles on a single charge, it ensures immediate power and efficiency for a wide range of recreational activities.

Whether you’re navigating through trails or embarking on extended journeys, the Stag has your needs fully addressed.

Cargo Capacity & Towing:

The Stag features a roomy cargo space that’s capable of handling a maximum tow load of 2,000 lbs when in tow mode, rendering it perfect for transporting equipment, camping essentials, or even small trailers.

Additionally, its comfortable seating area is designed to host up to four individuals, allowing you to share the thrill of your adventures with your cherished companions.

Features:

The Volcon Stag has a wide range of features included headlights, integrated taillights and brake lights.

Also comes equipped with power steering, air bags, paddle shift, route planner, and a front bumper.

This UTV is perfect for taking to your neighboring streets as it has all the components to make it street legal.

Hisun Sector E1

Coming back down to earth for a bit, we have the Hisun Sector E1.

Specifications:Hisun Sector E1
Motor Type:Single AC Induction
Battery Voltage48
Battery Amp hours2080
Horsepower38
Torque220
Max Speed25MPH
Estimated Range45 Miles
Charge Time6-8 hours
On Board ChargingYes
DrivetrainSelectable 4WD
Transmission:Fully Auto CVT
Suspension Front:Dual A-arms w/7”
Suspension Rear:Dual A-arms w/7”
Brakes Front:Dual hydraulic discs
Brakes Rear:Dual hydraulic discs
Tires Front:26X9-12
Tires Rear:26×10-12
Overall length width height:110”X61.75”x73”
Maximum Ground Clearance:10”
Wheelbase:72.5”
Cargo Capacity:500lbs
Towing Capacity:1500lbs
Curb Weight:2831lbs
Entry Weight1831lbs
Seats2
Warranty:2 Years
ColorsGreen, camo

Engine:

With the Hisun Sector E1 we have the same AC induction engine as with the rest of the electric UTVs. It produces a bit more horsepower than the Polaris EV and the Polaris Ranger EV LI-ION.

We do have a max speed given here though at 25 mph. Needless to say, this vehicle isn’t the fastest amongst its peers. But like I stated before a lot of these electric UTVs are used for hunting or short rides around the farm/ranch.

Suspension:

The suspension on the Hisun is one of the smallest on this list with 7″ Dual A-arm suspension in the front and back of the vehicle. As with the Polaris models, this UTV has a ground clearance of 10″

Cargo and Towing Capacity:

I do like the cargo and towing capacity, I think that for a company like Hisun they do a good job keeping up with the competition.

The Sector E1 has a cargo capacity of 500 lbs and a towing capacity of 1500 lbs similar to the Polaris EV LI-ION.

Range/Ride Time:

This is the same as the other UTVs we’ve seen besides the Nikola Zero with a Range of 45 miles. Unlike the Polaris Ranger EV, I haven’t heard any reports of getting anything less than 45 miles on a full charge from this vehicle.

Warranty:

The Hisun comes with a 2-year warranty which is standard for most of their vehicles.

Textron Prowler EV IS $13,499

Specifications:Textron Prowler EV IS
Motor Type:(2) AC Induction
Battery Voltage72
Horsepower38
TorqueNot stated
Max Speed24.5MPH
Estimated RangeNot stated
Charge Time8-12 hours
On Board ChargingNo
DrivetrainFull time 4WD
Transmission:Direct drive
Suspension Front:McPherson Strut w/5”
Suspension Rear:McPherson Strut w/5”
Brakes Front:Hydraulic discs
Brakes Rear:Hydraulic discs
Tires Front:25X8-12
Tires Rear:25×10-12
Overall length width height:111.8”X53”x76.8”
Maximum Ground Clearance:9.5”
Wheelbase:70”
Total Capacity:840lbs
Towing Capacity:1000lbs
Curb Weight:1710lbs
Seats4
Warranty:1 Year
ColorsCamo
Price:$13,499

Last but not least we have the Textron Prowler EV IS. This is one of two electric Prowler that Textron offers, but this is the superior one between the two.

Engine:

The engine here is much the same as we have seen elsewhere. The horsepower is much the same as with the vehicles from Polaris and Hisun respectively.

Battery:

It is interesting to note that this battery is a bit different from its competitors using a 72-volt battery compared to a 48-volt one. It is also a Lithium-ion battery and not a lead-acid.

Transmission:

Another thing different on this vehicle compared to the others is that the transmission on this Prowler is direct drive and not CVT.

The direct drive allows for better shifting because. There are fewer gears that are connecting which means this vehicle will excel at its higher speed that being 24.5 mph.

Suspension:

The suspension on this Prowler is the lowest of the five vehicles listed here. The suspension is MacPherson Strut suspension but only a 5″ suspension compared to the 9″ of both Polaris vehicles, 7″ of Hisun, and 20″ of Nikola.

Towing Capacity:

The specification chart doesn’t give the cargo bed capacity, but the towing capacity for this vehicle is 1,000 lbs 500 less than the average towing capacity for the listed electric vehicles.

Warranty:

The warranty on this vehicle is also shorter than the other vehicles only having a 1-year warranty.

I wouldn’t say this is a bad vehicle by any means, in fact, Textron was one of the first manufacturers to use electric UTVs, however, when comparing the specifications it seems to be the most lacking.

Geoff Southworth

I am a California native and I enjoy all the outdoors has to offer. My latest adventures have been taking the family camping, hiking and surfing.

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