What an electric side-by-side is and how it differs from gas models
An electric side-by-side is a recreational off-road vehicle powered by rechargeable batteries instead of a gasoline engine. It seats two people side-by-side (hence the name) and is built for trails, farms, and rough terrain. The main difference from a gas side-by-side is the power source: electric models run on lithium or lead-acid batteries that you plug in to recharge, while gas models burn fuel and require oil changes and regular engine maintenance.
Electric side-by-sides produce no exhaust, run much quieter than gas versions, and have lower operating costs because electricity is cheaper than fuel and there are fewer moving parts to maintain. The trade-off is range — most electric models travel 40 to 100 miles per charge, depending on terrain, speed, and battery size, whereas gas models can often go 200+ miles on a tank. Recharging takes several hours, so they work best for day trips or property use rather than long-distance adventures.
The vehicles themselves look similar to gas side-by-sides: roll cage, open frame, four-wheel drive, and the same basic controls. The main visible difference is the absence of an engine compartment and the presence of a battery pack, usually mounted low under the frame or in the rear.
Key Takeaways
- Electric side-by-sides run on rechargeable batteries and produce no emissions or engine noise, making them quieter and cheaper to operate than gas models.
- Most electric models travel 40 to 100 miles per charge, which is shorter than gas vehicles but sufficient for day trips and property use.
- Recharging takes 4 to 8 hours depending on the charger and battery size, so overnight charging is typical for daily use.
- Electric models cost more upfront than comparable gas side-by-sides, but lower fuel and maintenance costs recover some of that difference over time.
- Battery performance declines in cold weather, so winter range may be 20 to 30 percent shorter than in moderate temperatures.
How battery range and charging time work in practice
Range on an electric side-by-side depends on four main factors: battery capacity (measured in kilowatt-hours or kWh), terrain, speed, and driver weight. A 10 kWh battery on flat ground at moderate speed might deliver 80 miles, but the same battery on steep hills or at high speed could drop to 50 miles. Manufacturers publish range estimates under ideal conditions, so real-world distance is often 10 to 20 percent lower.
Charging speed varies by charger type. A standard 120-volt household outlet (Level 1) charges slowly — often 12 to 24 hours for a full battery. A 240-volt home or garage charger (Level 2) cuts that to 4 to 8 hours. Some commercial or dealer chargers use DC fast charging and can reach 80 percent in 30 to 60 minutes, but this is less common for side-by-sides and may not be available in your area. Most owners charge overnight at home and plan trips within their vehicle's known range.
Cold weather reduces range by 20 to 30 percent because batteries deliver less power in freezing temperatures. If your vehicle shows 80 miles of range in summer, expect 55 to 65 miles in winter. This matters if you use the vehicle year-round in a cold climate.
Price, warranty, and what different models offer
Electric side-by-sides range from roughly $15,000 to $35,000 new, depending on battery size, motor power, and features. A basic model with a smaller battery and 40-mile range costs less than a high-performance version with a 100-mile range and faster acceleration. Gas side-by-sides in the same size class typically start $2,000 to $5,000 lower, but that gap narrows when you factor in fuel and maintenance savings over five to ten years.
Warranties vary by manufacturer. Most cover the battery for 5 to 8 years or 50,000 to 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. The motor and frame usually carry a 2 to 3 year warranty. Batteries degrade over time — expect 80 to 90 percent of original capacity after five years of regular use — but this is normal and does not mean the vehicle stops working. Used electric side-by-sides are becoming more common as the market grows, and used prices typically run 40 to 60 percent of new cost.
Major manufacturers include Polaris (ACE and Ranger electric models), John Deere (Gator electric versions), and several smaller brands like Hisun and Massimo. Each offers different battery sizes and performance levels, so comparing specs directly (kWh, top speed, payload capacity) is more useful than brand loyalty.
Maintenance and long-term reliability
Electric side-by-sides require far less maintenance than gas models. There is no oil to change, no spark plugs, no air filter, and no fuel system to clean. Routine care includes checking tire pressure, inspecting brakes, and keeping the battery terminals clean and dry. Most owners report minimal maintenance costs in the first five years beyond occasional brake pads and tire replacement.
The battery is the most expensive component to replace if it fails outside warranty. A replacement battery pack can cost $3,000 to $8,000 depending on capacity, though this is rare in the first five years if the vehicle is used normally. Storing the vehicle in a garage and avoiding deep discharges (running the battery to zero) extends battery life. Most manufacturers recommend keeping the battery between 20 and 80 percent charge for storage over winter.
Reliability data for electric side-by-sides is still limited because the market is relatively new, but early reports suggest they are as reliable as gas models when properly maintained. The simpler drivetrain (fewer parts to break) is an advantage, though battery issues are a risk that gas vehicles do not face.
Where electric side-by-sides work best and where they fall short
Electric side-by-sides excel on farms, private property, and short recreational trails where you can recharge at home. They are ideal if you value quiet operation (important near neighbors or in noise-sensitive areas), low operating cost, and minimal maintenance. They also work well for people who make multiple short trips in a day and can charge between outings.
They fall short for long-distance touring, remote backcountry use, or situations where you cannot recharge for days. If your trips regularly exceed 100 miles or you need to travel far from a power source, a gas side-by-side is more practical. They are also less suitable if you live in a very cold climate and need maximum winter range, or if you tow heavy loads frequently (towing reduces range significantly).
Resale value for electric side-by-sides is still uncertain because the market is young. Gas models hold value more predictably, so if you plan to sell in three to five years, that is a consideration. However, as the technology matures and more used models enter the market, resale values should stabilize.
Charging infrastructure and home setup
Unlike electric cars, side-by-sides do not rely on public charging networks. Most owners charge at home using a standard outlet or a dedicated 240-volt charger installed in a garage or shed. If you do not have access to home charging, an electric side-by-side is impractical because you cannot charge it at a public EV station (the connectors and power levels are different).
Installing a 240-volt charger at home costs $500 to $2,000 depending on your electrical panel and how far the charger needs to be from the panel. This is a one-time cost that pays for itself through lower charging times and convenience. A standard 120-volt outlet works but requires overnight charging and is slower, so most owners upgrade if they plan regular use.
Some dealers offer charging at their service bays, and a few RV parks and campgrounds are beginning to install chargers, but availability is spotty. Before buying an electric side-by-side, confirm you have a reliable charging location for your primary use.
Comparing electric and gas side-by-sides: a practical breakdown
| Factor | Electric Side-by-Side | Gas Side-by-Side |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront cost | $15,000–$35,000 | $12,000–$30,000 |
| Range per charge/tank | 40–100 miles | 150–250 miles |
| Refueling/charging time | 4–8 hours (home charger) | 5–10 minutes |
| Annual fuel/energy cost | $200–$400 | $800–$1,500 |
| Annual maintenance cost | $100–$300 | $400–$800 |
| Noise level | Very quiet (60–70 dB) | Loud (85–95 dB) |
| Best for | Day trips, property use, quiet areas | Long trips, remote areas, frequent use |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an electric side-by-side in the rain or water?
Yes, electric side-by-sides are sealed and waterproof like gas models, so light rain and shallow water crossings are fine. However, submerging the battery or electronics can cause damage. Avoid deep water fording and rinse the vehicle with fresh water after exposure to saltwater or mud to prevent corrosion.
What happens if the battery dies while I am out?
The vehicle will slow down gradually as the battery depletes, giving you warning before it stops. You cannot call for a tow truck to charge it on the roadside like you can with a gas vehicle. Plan trips to stay within your known range, and carry a portable charger if you will be far from home for extended periods (though this adds weight and cost).
Do electric side-by-sides work in snow and ice?
Yes, they handle snow and ice as well as gas models because the drivetrain and traction control work the same way. The main difference is reduced range in cold weather. If you use the vehicle regularly in winter, expect 20 to 30 percent shorter trips and plan accordingly.
Can I tow a trailer with an electric side-by-side?
Most electric side-by-sides can tow, but towing reduces range significantly — often by 30 to 50 percent depending on trailer weight and terrain. Check the manufacturer's towing capacity and plan shorter trips if you tow regularly.
Is it cheaper to own an electric or gas side-by-side over five years?
Total cost depends on how often you use it and local electricity and fuel prices. Electric models typically cost $1,500 to $3,000 less per year in fuel and maintenance, which can offset the higher upfront price over five years. However, if you use the vehicle infrequently or sell it before five years, gas may be cheaper overall.