Polaris Awarded Popular Science's 2023 "Best of What's New" Accolade

Ross Ballot
by Ross Ballot

Polaris proudly announced its win of the 2023 Popular Science “Best of What’s New” Award in the automotive category for its all-electric Polaris RANGER XP Kinetic. This recognition highlights the groundbreaking nature of the RANGER XP Kinetic within the off-road industry, showcasing the benefits that electric technology bring to utility off-road vehicles.

The idea behind the Polaris RANGER XP Kinetic isn’t new, as electric side-by-sides have been around for a bit now, but the Polaris stands out for its immediate torque and seamless implementation of the electric drivetrain. which Precise control during heavy load pulling or towing are the highlights, and Polaris touts that its quiet ride enables “effortless conversations” with passengers and allows work in early mornings or late evenings without disturbing neighbors or livestock. Additionally, it facilitates stealthy trips to hunting spots, demonstrating its multifaceted appeal to outdoor enthusiasts.


Popular Science's Best of What’s New Award is a highly coveted honor, evaluating innovations based on their significance, design quality, originality, and project scope. The publication's Editor-in-Chief, Annie Colbert, praised the Best of What’s New Awards for showcasing innovations improving everyday lives and futures, including the electrification of the auto industry. Polaris' Vice President of Electric Off Road, Josh Hermes, expressed pride in the recognition, stating, "Our utility customers are experiencing firsthand the performance and power electric powertrains can provide."


Boasting industry-leading horsepower and torque, the RANGER XP Kinetic sets new benchmarks for utility side-by-side vehicle performance and productivity. Its electric powertrain, developed through Polaris’ 10-year partnership with Zero Motorcycles, ensures fewer moving parts, lowering maintenance costs and increasing productivity.


Equipped with RIDE COMMAND+—offering connected vehicle services like remote vehicle location, battery monitoring, and enhanced group ride tracking—the RANGER XP Kinetic models have been in production in Huntsville, Ala., and deliveries to dealers and customers began earlier this year. Polaris' triumph with the RANGER XP Kinetic underscores its commitment to innovation, setting new standards in the off-road industry, and continues to pave the way for electric-powered utility vehicles.

Ross Ballot
Ross Ballot

Ross hosts The Off the Road Again Podcast. He has been in the off-road world since he was a kid riding in the back of his dad’s YJ Wrangler. He works in marketing by day and in his free time contributes to Hooniverse, AutoGuide, and ATV.com, and in the past has contributed to UTV Driver, ATV Rider, and Everyday Driver. Ross drives a 2018 Lexus GX460 that is an ongoing build project featured on multiple websites and the podcast and spends his free time working on and riding ATVs.

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