The electric 2022 Polaris Ranger XP Kinetic is all about work utility and user comfort. Engineered to handle a variety of tasks and payloads, it’s also quieter than its gas counterparts, so you can skip the earplugs. And of course, it makes a much smaller carbon dent.
To execute the design, Polaris took the already impressive Ranger side-by-side to Zero motorcycles. The experienced electric powersports builder then developed the engine. Soon, the Ranger XP Kinetic hit the dirt.
“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 as a powertrain solutions provider, and Polaris’ dedication to consumer-led innovation has created an all-new electric Ranger that delivers an incredible rider experience.”
The side-by-side’s specs are on point, it impressed in early testing, and advantageous connective features are on deck. Here’s a look at the class-leading Polaris Ranger XP Kinetic. To borrow a phrase, don’t look away — you could miss it.
Ranger XP Kinetic Specs and Capability
For many, the natural inclination would be to question an electric side-by-side’s power. Don’t be fooled — the Ranger XP Kinetic doesn’t sacrifice oomph for low impact. In fact, the electric Range leads the industry in power and torque. 110 horsepower and 140 pound-feet of instant torque give it tow/haul capability even on nappy trails. Towing tops out at a substantial 2,500 pounds, and haul capacity is an industry-best 1,250 pounds.
Polaris’ unique electric engine does the job, and mitigates maintenance issues common to gas motors. According to the brand, the electric powertrain is simpler, which cuts down on issues and even routine maintenance.
Obviously, Ranger XP Kinetic owners will forego oil changes, filter replacements, and spark plugs. Overall, Polaris forecasts scheduled maintenance costs to be 70% below the average for similar gas-powered vehicles.
In no way, though, is the electric UTV a “less is more” proposition. It does promise to keep the great outdoors peaceful with its distinct lack of “braap,” but it looks like it’s equipped to handle the roughest of the rough stuff.
First of all, it sits 14 inches off the ground, suiting it to clear roots, rocks, and obstacles all sizes — for reference, an NBA basketball has a 9.5” diameter.
Its shoes are 29-inch 8-ply Pro Armor X-Terrain tires. The top-of-its-class inclusion should go a long way to prevent punctures and improve both traction and ride. Its 10 inches of suspension travel matches or tops most competitors.
World’s Most Powerful Side-by-Side in Action
Polaris won’t deliver the first Ranger XP Kinetic until summer 2022. Luckily, we don’t have to wait that long to see what it can do. GearJunkie’s Motors team watched an early iteration perform impressively at a summer demo. There, it out-pulled gas competitors by successfully towing a full-size truck and trailer.
The operator also demonstrated its dexterity by pausing it on a metal teeter-totter. Compared to the way many gas-powered side-by-sides handle, the display impressed.
Charging and Connectivity
You can charge the Polaris XP Ranger Kinetic from a 120V or 240V outlet with the included Level 1/Level 2 charging cord. The brand says a 240V outlet will fully charge the rig in five hours. For now though, it is unclear whether it will charge at EV charging stations.
To monitor helpful measurements like remaining range and battery charge, refer to the 7-inch display. To add capabilities, you can subscribe to Polaris Ride Command. Compatible with iOS and Android, the app facilitates handy utilities like setting waypoints at charging stations and measuring distance between stations. It also lets users access performance diagnostics and over a million miles of trail maps, and enables remote location.
Range, Pre-Ordering, Options, and MSRP
The three-seat Polaris Ranger XP Kinetic comes in two trim levels. The Premium variant (MSRP $25,000) gets a 14.9 kWh lithium-ion battery with an approximate range of 45 miles.
The Ultimate package cranks up the utility considerably. For $30,000 MSRP, it features a 29.8 kWh battery with an 80-mile range, plus the 7-inch display and (bonus!) dash-mounted speakers.
Check out Polaris’ website for pre-ordering info. As of now, Polaris forecasts earliest possible delivery dates in summer 2022.
Learn more at Polaris.com.
