Try Before You Buy: Electric UTV Rentals Showcase the Vehicle’s Durability, Sustainability and Power

Polaris Ranger XP Kinetic UTV

The introduction of the work UTV and its rapid adoption was mirrored by its expansion into new applications and industries for the versatile vehicle. Originally developed for recreational use, UTVs provide a range of vehicle offerings for customers across industries, from construction to events to grounds maintenance. With side-by-side riding, payload and towing capabilities plus maneuverability through narrow and tight spaces, UTVs can increase efficiency and profitability on virtually any jobsite.

With UTV usage expanding across applications, rental companies have also followed suit. When purchasing a vehicle doesn’t make financial sense, renting is a practical solution and a great way for customers to try before they buy. With sustainable initiatives on the rise and an increase in eco-friendly vehicles, rental companies are expanding their UTV fleets — this time with electric options.

Electric Utility Vehicle Benefits Unlocked

While there used to be a concern that electric vehicles (EVs) were less capable than their traditional combustion engine counterparts, that’s simply not the case. In fact, today’s electric UTVs offer several advantages over their gas and diesel-powered counterparts, including helping customers meet sustainability initiatives, without sacrificing productivity. Renting an electric UTV can help prove this for any application.

While all customers want a vehicle that’s up to the task, renters especially trend toward vehicles that provide the most uptime to get the job done. Electric powertrains can deliver more horsepower, precise control and nearly instant torque, making them ideal for utility tasks like hauling and towing. The Polaris Ranger XP Kinetic electric UTV, for example, is equipped with 110 hp and 140 lb-ft of instant torque for the ability to tow 2,500 lbs and haul 1,250 lbs. Electric UTVs also have an advanced drivetrain that features fewer moving parts for lower maintenance needs, thus more uptime for increased productivity. Plus, the quiet electric powertrain means easier communication with coworkers without needing to turn off the motor and the ability to work in the early morning or late-night hours without disrupting those nearby – further increasing jobsite efficiency and crew awareness. When factoring in average maintenance and repair costs, along with yearly driving and idling time into the overall operational expenses, electric vehicles are also one of the lowest total cost vehicles to own and operate annually.

It’s clear that gas, diesel and electric-powered UTVs have their pros and cons, but rental companies and contractors looking to expand their portfolio should definitely be considering sustainable solutions like electric. Let’s find out why.

Durability for eUTVs

Polaris Ranger XP Kinetic

Durability is key to maximizing uptime, which in turn, drives productivity and profitability for both the customer and the rental company. This is often done by decreasing vehicle downtime, lowering replacement parts and reducing maintenance labor.

With the amount of maintenance on EV models being significantly reduced compared to UTVs with internal combustion engines, rental companies can often save on scheduled maintenance costs and maximize their vehicle turnaround time between customers. For example, there are no engine oil changes, filter replacements, coolant flushes, spark plugs or clutch maintenance. The primary maintenance to be performed at the specified intervals are transmission and front drive fluid changes and maintaining wear items such as tires and brakes.

Companies should also look for features that can withstand the increased wear and tear of rental customers while cycling through various jobsites. Additionally, increase vehicle confidence by renting electric UTVs that have already been put to the test. For example, the all-electric Polaris Ranger XP Kinetic has been tested in extreme conditions and treacherous terrain and is backed by a one-year factory warranty, three-year electric powertrain coverage and five-year battery coverage.

Range Without Worry

Range is a primary concern for most people considering an electric UTV. Look for vehicles equipped with battery capacity to provide customers with peace of mind the vehicle can run all day. For example, the 14.9 kWh of lithium ion battery capacity on the Ranger XP Kinetic Premium offers an estimated range of up to 45 miles; while 29.8 kWh of battery capacity on the Ultimate trim model provides an estimated range of up to 80 miles.

While actual range varies based on conditions such as external environment, weather, speed, cargo loads, rates of acceleration, vehicle maintenance and vehicle usage, UTVs with various drive modes optimized to driving conditions can help with range management. For example, the Ranger XP Kinetic has three varying modes that optimize torque, top speed and throttle response to optimize performance based on driving demands.

Fast and Convenient Charging

When offering electric UTVs for rent, convenient charging options are a must. While rental facilities may desire faster charging options for time between customers, look for electric UTVs with charging options designed to universally fit customer needs and are as easy as plugging into a standard wall outlet. Doing so will provide customers with the ability to charge overnight or gain a quick top-off charge during breaks and lunch.

UTVs that Customers Desire

According to recent IBV research, 86 percent of organizations have a sustainability strategy in place. Adding electric UTVs to your rental fleet (as a rental house or rental customer) can be another step in your eco-goals. It’s a great way for customers to try electric before making the financial commitment to add to their own fleet.

Kyle Crosley is the director of Polaris Commercial.

Arcimoto Announces an All-New Electric Modular Utility Vehicle

Arcimoto Announces an All-New Electric Modular Utility Vehicle

Arcimoto’s new MUV marks the first on-road modular utility vehicle in the company’s lineup of small footprint electric vehicles for dedicated professional and commercial use. The Arcimoto MUV, built on the company’s flagship FUV platform, is a workhorse for daily indoor and outdoor use for industrial mobility customers who need to move goods, materials, supplies and equipment reliably, quietly and sustainably. The Arcimoto MUV is nimble by design and has the versatility to go anywhere – indoors, outdoors, city streets, vineyards, warehouses, e-commerce fulfillment centers, with functional and flexible solutions for several industries including agriculture, landscape and construction. With a top speed of up to 75 mph, the MUV has a payload of 500 lbs, yet is small and narrow enough for the tightest of work environments. Its dual-motor front-wheel drive with a single seat provides optimal utility range up to 102 city miles, fast and easy charging with level 1 and level 2 charging capabilities. For more info, visit arcimoto.com.

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