Ranger 'electrifies' Polaris prospects

Its EV side-by-side utility model is cleaner, greener, and almost silent, according to company spokesman Neil Anderson.

“Great for indoor and outdoor use, perfect around horses, and never needing fuel, it also requires very little maintenance,” he said.

“With 30hp and a 40kph top speed, the mid-size Ranger EV has plenty of guts, operating cleanly and quietly with a 48V AC electric motor,” Mr Anderson added.

Polaris says its Ranger EV has the longest range in its class and is equipped with an 11.7kW maximum-power battery pack and three-mode system.

The High, Low and Max Range modes are said to provide greater efficiency and overall performance because riders are able to switch back and forth for maximum power, or achieve that 80km range, according to preference.

Polaris’ research suggests 90 per cent of Australian farms travel less than 80km per day but users must remember to plug it into the property’s electrical supply at night.

Meanwhile, the company’s On Demand all-wheel drive (AWD) system automatically engages when more forward traction is required.

The Ranger EV reverts back to 2WD automatically when AWD is no longer needed.

Polaris says its off-road utility vehicles were the first to introduce independent rear suspension with its Ranger EV also inheriting the technology.

The long-travel suspension gives 20cm front travel, 23cm rear travel and 25cm of ground clearance to help avoid ruts and rocks.

The Ranger EV’s 226kg dump box is positioned high enough to minimise the temptation for horses to risk injury by removing feed with their hooves.

Combined with a 567kg towing capacity and Lock and Ride cargo system, the EV comes with inset headlights for minimised damage from rock chips and branches, dedicated vehicle tie down points and certified Roll-Over Protective Structure.

* Visit www.polarisindusties.com.au