Field Mowing with the all-electric Polaris RANGER XP Kinetic

By Jon Crowley

The Polaris RANGER XP Kinetic Ultimate represents a significant advancement in electric utility side-by-sides, combining robust performance with eco-friendly technology. Equipped with a 110-horsepower internal permanent magnet AC motor and delivering 140 lb-ft of torque, it offers immediate power for demanding tasks. Its 29.8 kWh lithium-ion battery provides an estimated range of up to 80 miles on a single charge, catering to extended workdays without the need for frequent recharging .  

Designed for versatility, the RANGER XP Kinetic Ultimate boasts a towing capacity of 2,500 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,500 pounds, ensuring it can handle heavy-duty workloads. The vehicle’s 14-inch ground clearance and 29-inch Pro Armor X-Terrain tires enhance its off-road capabilities, allowing it to navigate challenging terrains with ease. Additionally, the inclusion of a 7-inch RIDE COMMAND display offers advanced features such as GPS navigation, backup camera, and vehicle diagnostics, enhancing user experience and operational efficiency .   

Earlier this year, we purchased a Polaris RANGER XP Kinetic Ultimate and we have concentrated on ding some trail rides with it.

First Ride: Polaris RANGER XP Kinetic

We have used it on three different rides so far with good results.  In addition, we have added a few accessories including:

• Polaris rear view and side mirrors
• Polaris roof
• Switch Works Tango 2 Street Legal Kit
• Ravek Apex Lights – For front amber turn indicators

We recently moved the RANGER XP Kinetic back to California to focus on the more utility side of this vehicle. With spring time comes explosive grass growth and we need to mow our pasture a few times each year.

The mower’s ability to follow tight turns without colliding with the towing vehicle makes it particularly effective for navigating challenging landscapes and with the RANGER XP Kinetic’s “turf mode” rear differential, making tight turns is a breeze.

The Kunz Engineering AcrEase MR55BE is a top-tier, 57-inch rough cut mower designed for demanding land maintenance tasks. Powered by a robust 27 HP Briggs & Stratton Commercial CXi Series twin-cylinder engine, it delivers exceptional performance when paired with a UTV. The mower features a durable 10-gauge steel deck reinforced with dual ¼-inch steel plates, ensuring longevity and resilience in tough conditions.

RANGER XP Kinetic’s Battery Life and Charging Time

I mowed a total of about 4 acres over the span of about two hours and the battery life went from 50% to 33%. During this time the RANGER XP Kinetic was in low-range 100% of the time and I ran in turf mode when making tight turns and 4-wheel drive when going up hill in wet conditions.

Charging flexibility is a key feature, with the RANGER XP Kinetic Ultimate supporting both Level 1 (120V) and Level 2 (240V) charging options, achieving a full charge in as little as five hours with the latter. 120V is better suited for situations where you have the time to charge overnight. Charge time from 33% using 120V power was over 12 hours.

RANGER XP Kinetic Operation in Low Range with ECO+ Power Mode

During the two hours of mowing, I was also in ECO+ power mode.  This throttle mapping is a bit more “friendly” if you are in work mode.  With 110HP, I have found that the RANGER XP Kinetic can definitely spin the tires in the right situation. If you want a more sporty experience, Sport mode is for you. I certainly wanted more throttle control in this scenario and found tat ECO+ delivered that in most situations. I did have one spot where the ground was very wet and I was in turf mode (one-wheel drive). At that moment, I did find that control of my forward momentum was lacking and the instant power of the Kinetic spun a rear tire flinging mud everywhere. Four-wheel drive would have helped, but I do feel like the RANGER XP Kinetic’s throttle is a bit “twitchy”, even in ECO+ mode.

Conclusion

I was very impressed with the performance of the RANGER XP Kinetic. It towed the Kunz Rough Cut Mower through wet conditions and 2-3 foot thick grass with ease. No sign of CVT belt slip even at 1MPH going uphill. No overheating or other strange behavior. Good turning radius in turf mode. Battery life was impressive as well.  Two hours of mowing/towing in low-range and I used up 17% of the battery capacity. Easily recharge to full capacity overnight on 120V power.

So far, the biggest downside I have found is the price.  With an MSRP for the RANGER XP Kinetic Ultimate of over $37K, you’re going to have to really love the concept of an all-electric UTV to spend that much more for it.

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