2016 Polaris Ranger EV Li-Ion Polaris Pursuit Camo Preview

Lucas Cooney
by Lucas Cooney
Hundreds of pounds lighter and twice the range of original Ranger EV


Lost in the chaos of last week’s release of Polaris‘ 2016 ATV and UTV lineup was a huge evolution in electric off-road vehicles – the Ranger EV Li-Ion Polaris Pursuit Camo.

Polaris has had an electric Ranger Side-by-Side for six years – the Ranger EV – but the new Ranger EV Li-Ion makes a startling jump in performance. According to Polaris, this UTV offers more than three times the total battery lifespan of traditional acid batteries and more than twice the range on one charge (up to 50 miles). Perhaps even more startling is the weight loss. Due to having fewer, lighter weight Lithium-Ion Batteries, the Ranger EV Li-Ion is 462 lbs lighter than the lead-acid powered Ranger EV.

2016 Polaris Ranger EV-Li-Ion Battery

The Lithium-Ion battery powering the Ranger EV Li-Ion is a direct result of Polaris’ acquisition of Brammo Inc.

To complement the Lithium-Ion battery technology, the pure electric Ranger EV Li-Ion features what Polaris calls a refined electrical architecture and a single 48-volt, high-efficiency, AC-induction motor. The driver can select from three modes of operation: High for everyday use, Low for hard work and Max Range for greatest distance. The new system also features a Battery Management Controller, which continuously monitors battery usage for a more accurate representation of battery life. A Vehicle Control Module (VCM) allows for a new digital gauge with speedometer and improved accessory integration. Polaris says accessories such as the Electronic Power Steering kit and Polaris Interactive Digital Display are now easier to install. The vehicle also is equipped with on-vehicle diagnostics for easier servicing.

2016 Polaris Ranger EV Li-Ion Dash

Of course, all that new technology comes at a cost. The Ranger EV Li-Ion has a retail price of $22,999, which is more than twice the price of the base Ranger EV ($11,299).

Other features of the Ranger EV Li-Ion include 10 gal of cab storage, 1,500 lbs of towing capacity, 500 lb gas-assist rear dump box, and 1000 lbs of total payload. The vehicle also is equipped with Polaris’ On-Demand True All-Wheel Drive. Selectable VersaTrac Turf Mode, combined with high-pressure, 20 psi, 25 in Carlisle turf-friendly tires, helps ensure a lighter footprint on lawns and other terrain.

2016 Polaris Ranger EV-Li-Ion Charging

With as much as 50 miles of range, you won’t have to charge up the Ranger Li-Ion nearly as often.

Polaris equipped the Ranger EV Li-Ion with 10 in of ground clearance, MacPherson strut front suspension and independent rear suspension with 9.0 in of travel. A 58 in width allows Ranger EV Li-Ion to fit in the bed of most pick-up trucks.

An array of accessories is available for the Ranger EV Li-Ion, including windshields, roofs, doors and rear panels, all of which lock directly into the cab frame’s contour. For easy installation of many of the cab components and also cargo boxes and tool racks, the vehicle also features Polaris’ Lock & Ride.

2016 Polaris Ranger EV Li-Ion Profile

The Polaris Ranger EV Li-Ion will hit dealerships in September.

To reduce charge time and get back on the job or hunt, Polaris also offers a quick charger for install.

The Ranger EV Li-Ion Polaris Pursuit Camo will be available in dealerships in September.

Lucas Cooney
Lucas Cooney

I have been working exclusively in digital media since 1997. I started out with TSN.ca, spending nearly nine years creating and editing content on Canada's leading sports website. I left to join VerticalScope, Inc., one of the world's largest online publishers, to start a number of powersports publications. While at VerticalScope, I've helped create and oversee content for a wide variety of different publications, including ATV.com, Off-Road.com, ArcheryTalk.com, Tractor.com, RVGuide.com, and many more.

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