By Jon Crowley
We picked up a 2024 Polaris RANGER Kinetic Ultimate in partial trade when we sold our Can-Am Maverick R. I definitely wasn’t looking to buy one, but the package deal was good, so I decided, what the heck, let’s do it. Way back in 2014, Polaris had a RANGER EV that was all-electric and was built on the mid-size RANGER platform. It featured lead-acid batteries, and the range was pretty minimal, but it did work fairly well for a mid-sized utility vehicle.
The RANGER Kinetic represents a significant leap forward in technology, and what interested me the most was the advertised 80-mile range for the Ultimate trim level. I wanted to prove out the advantages and disadvantes to going all electric.
Key Specifications and Features
- Electric powertrain: 110 hp, 140 lb-ft of torque, using a permanent-magnet AC motor.
- Battery: 29.8 kWh nominal lithium-ion battery for the Ultimate trim.
- Estimated range: up to 80 miles in the Ultimate trim under ideal conditions.
- Charging: Factory-installed 6 kW onboard charger in Ultimate.
- Drive train/chassis: True AWD/2WD with VersaTrac Turf Mode, dual A-arm suspension front & rear, 14″ ground clearance.
- Cargo & towing: Bed box capacity of 1,250 lb; towing rating 2,500 lb; payload capacity 1,500 lb.
- Ergonomics & tech: 7″ glove-touch display with EV infotainment, dual USB ports, bolstered seating, premium interior accents.
- MSRP – $37,499 USD
In short, this is a full-sized utility side-by-side built around an electric drivetrain—no compromise on hauling or towing compared to comparable gas units.
Polaris RANGER Kinetic Ultimate on a 40-mile ride
RANGER XP KINETIC Ultimate Specifications:
- 110 HP Electric Motor
- 140 lb.-ft. Torque
- 29″ Pro Armor X-Terrain Tires and 14″ Wheels
- 14” Ground Clearance
- LED Headlights and Charge-Indicating Center Accent Light
- Full-Body Skid Plate & Full-Coverage Front Bumper with Integrated Winch and Plow Mounts
- 12V Cargo Box Power Port with Integrated Dash Switch
- 1,250 lb. Box Capacity & 2,500 lb. Towing Capacity
- RIDE COMMAND+ Connected Vehicle Services
- 29.8 KWh Lithium-Ion Battery with up to 80 Miles Estimate Range
- Factory-Installed 6 kW On-Board Charger
- 7″ Display Powered by RIDE COMMAND
First Ride
We took our 2024 Polaris RANGER XP Kinetic Ultimate for a ride at Sand Hollow, UT as our first test. We drove a total of 17 miles – about 4 miles on pavement and the rest in sand while in Sport mode. During the ride, we used about 40% of the battery capacity. Time to recharge on 110V power was over 9 hours and on 240V it was under 2 hours. Polaris advertises an estimated range of 80 miles, so we used much more capacity than expected in our 17 miles test, but two things need to be factored in. 1. We used sport mode which is not as economical 2. We drove 75% in the sand, which takes much more power per mile. Performance-wise, we were impressed with the power this electric RANGER delivered. But that comes at a cost. In order to get the best range, we’d switch to Eco mode and drive on flat, level ground.
Instant torque and quiet operation. The electric motor’s 140 lb-ft of torque delivers immediate pull, which is a significant benefit in utility use (hauling, steep terrain) and silent operation is a big plus where low-noise is important.
Low maintenance. With fewer moving parts than a typical gas engine/clutch/transmission setup, Polaris claims scheduled maintenance costs are about 70% less than similar gas UTVs. Polaris For someone using it commercially or frequently, that’s a major plus.
Capability alive to its utility roots. The box capacity, towing rating, ground clearance, true AWD—all reflect that this is designed to work, not just for trail play.
Technology & comfort. The cabin is modern—large touch screen, integrated Ride Command, premium seats.
High Elevation Ride
We tested our Polaris RANGER Kinetic on a ride where we started at 5700 ft. elevation near Walker California, and rode to the top of Mt. Patterson at 11,654 ft. Our RANGER used 50% of its battery capacity getting to the top after 22-25 miles and 6,000 ft. climb. On the return, we used 14% battery capacity and ended at 36%.
Likes
- Instant throttle
- The advertised range meets real-life scenarios we have experienced
- Turf-mode for tight maneuvering is good
- Payload and bed layout is great. Going electric did not take away from the RANGER’s ability to haul and tow.
- 240V hookup for fast charges
Dislikes
- Cost
- Does not come with a roof
- Throttle control for very technical driving is not good (two-foot driving and starting on a hill)
- Charging on 120V is extremely slow
- Door nets are cumbersome. Would like a solid door option.
40 Mile Trail Ride
We decided to go to Toquerville Falls from over by Sand Hollow State Park. This is about 40 miles, but we added a few more by going to the overlook. This is our third trail ride and we are still getting used to what the vehicle is capable of. Learning if we can trust the estimated range because you can’t just swing into a gas station to top off if you run out of battery capacity. This is the first time we have used Low-Range as there were some very steep hill climbs and some light “rock crawling”. There are two ways to get to Toquerville Falls, and we took the easier way since we only have 29-inch tires and to avoid creek crossings.
While I have focused on trail riding with the RANGER Kinetic, I have also done some work with it. Throttle control for slow-speed field mowing was excellent, and turf-mode works great for tight turns.
Field mowing with our Polaris RANGER Kinetic
Polaris RANGER Kinetic Upgrades
- Polaris – Roof, side mirrors and rear-view mirror
- Switch Works – Turn Signal Kit
- System 3 Offroad – 30-inch XC450 Tires mounted on SB-7 Wheels
- Suspension Direct – Terrain Master 2.1 Shocks
Conclusion
The RANGER XP Kinetic Ultimate is a compelling electric utility side‐by‐side that truly bridges the gap between workhorse capability and the quiet, low-maintenance benefits of EV. For the right user—one with access to charging and a use-case that supports it—it stands out. Although justifying the additional cost is tough to crack.
