Polaris’s much-anticipated Ranger XP Kinetic, its lithium-ion battery-powered UTV, is now fully available in two different versions.
The Ranger XP Kinetic is a three-seat model available in a Premium version with a single 14.9kWh lithium-ion battery that offers an estimated range of 45 miles (70 kilometres), while the Ultimate model delivers 29.8kWh of battery capacity and offers an estimated range of 80 miles (130 kilometres).
Standard charging uses a single-phase EVSE that fits a 240V outlet and the Premium version reaches full charge from 0% in five hours, while the Ultimate model’s twin batteries are fully charged in 10 hours. Rates can be boosted via a three-phase (380V) outlet and peak charging accessories for up to 50% faster charge times.
Polaris has aimed to make the XP Kinetic a real workhorse and a viable competitor to its diesel or petrol siblings.
If offers 140 lb ft torque and can tow 1120kg, although as with all electric vehicles, towing and slogging up hills will impact on range. Cargo box carrying capacity is 567kg.
So what is it like to drive? Rough terrain capability is delviered by 35.5cm ground clearance plus 29in Pro Armor X-Terrain tyres and 14in wheels; it also offers 25.4 centimetres of suspension travel which helps to negotiate obstacles and smooth rutty tracks for increased safety and comfort.
In terms of capability it’s worth remembering that this is a Polaris Ranger for which the company has sought to find an electric power solution, rather than just an electric vehicle aimed at the off-road market, so it offers the company’s on-demand all-wheel drive, electric power steering and VersaTrac Turf mode as standard. It’s obviously noticeably quieter than its fossil-fuelled equivalents.
But it’s the tech that makes it stand out; Polaris has added regenerative braking which was lacking on its earlier electric models, plus the XP Kinetic has ECO, Standard and Sport selectable drive modes which work in conjunction with the high and low transmission ranges to deliver the required amount of power for lugging, acceleration or climbing.
For example, the steepest of hill climbs in our test was easily achieved by combining sport with low range – one advantage of electric power is instant torque so no lag when pulling away.
There’s also a F/R switch on the range selector for easy shuttling – you just need to check it’s not accidentally flicked into reverse when stopping, or an unexpected back-up can result!
Drive mode and transmission status is displayed on the main screen of the 18cm Range Command terminal, along with charge status and range, elevation and direction of travel.
Buttons at the base of the terminal switch the screen to camera integration (a front camera to help with difficult terrain or using tools such as snow ploughs plus a rear camera are options), selection and display of radio channels or music channels streamed via Bluetooth, call/text alerts or navigation.
The navigation screen even allows locations to be marked for later action, which could be useful for ground needing repair, damaged fencing etc.
Both Premium and Ultimate models are backed by a two-year total coverage warranty, three-year electric powertrain warranty and five-year battery coverage
Jane Carley
