What an electric side by side is and how it differs from gas models
An electric side by side is an off-road vehicle powered by rechargeable batteries instead of a gasoline engine. The basic layout is the same as a traditional gas side by side — two or more seats, four-wheel drive, and a frame built for rough terrain — but the powertrain is completely different. Instead of an internal combustion engine, electric models use one or more electric motors connected to a battery pack, usually mounted under the frame or in the rear.
The main practical differences show up in how you use the vehicle. Gas models need fuel stops and regular oil changes. Electric models need charging stations or a home outlet, and their maintenance is simpler because there is no engine oil, spark plugs, or transmission fluid to manage. Braking is often regenerative, meaning the motor helps slow the vehicle and recaptures energy back into the battery while you brake.
Range and power output vary widely. Most electric side by sides travel between 40 and 150 miles on a full charge, depending on battery size, terrain, and driving speed. Acceleration is often quicker than comparable gas models because electric motors deliver maximum torque when ready, but top speed is usually lower. Noise levels are significantly reduced — electric models are nearly silent compared to the engine roar of gas vehicles.
Key Takeaways
- Electric side by sides use rechargeable battery packs and electric motors instead of gasoline engines, with simpler maintenance and lower operating noise.
- Range typically falls between 40 and 150 miles per charge, depending on battery capacity, terrain, and how hard you drive.
- Charging time at home usually takes 4 to 12 hours for a full charge, while fast chargers can reduce that to 1 to 3 hours.
- Purchase price is generally higher than comparable gas models, but fuel and maintenance costs are lower over the vehicle's lifetime.
- Battery degradation is normal and gradual; most manufacturers warranty batteries for 5 to 10 years or a set number of charge cycles.
Battery capacity, range, and how charging works
Battery size is measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh), and it directly determines how far you can travel on one charge. A small battery pack might be 10 to 20 kWh, while larger packs reach 50 kWh or more. The relationship between battery size and range is not linear — a 50 kWh battery does not necessarily give you twice the range of a 25 kWh battery, because larger vehicles and more powerful motors draw more energy per mile.
Real-world range depends on several factors: terrain (hills drain the battery faster than flat ground), speed (highway speeds use more energy than slow trails), temperature (cold weather reduces range by 20 to 40 percent), and driving style (aggressive acceleration and hard braking use more power than smooth, steady driving). Manufacturers typically list an optimistic range under ideal conditions, so plan for 20 to 30 percent less in actual use.
Charging happens through a port on the vehicle, usually a standard household outlet (120 volts), a dedicated home charger (240 volts), or a public fast charger. A 120-volt outlet charges slowly — often 8 to 12 hours for a full battery. A 240-volt home charger cuts that to 4 to 8 hours. Fast chargers at public stations can reach 80 percent charge in 1 to 3 hours, but the final 20 percent charges more slowly to protect the battery. Most owners charge overnight at home and use fast chargers only for longer trips.
Cost comparison: purchase price, fuel, and maintenance
Electric side by sides cost more upfront than gas models. A mid-range gas side by side might cost $8,000 to $15,000, while an electric model in the same category typically runs $12,000 to $25,000 or higher. The price gap exists because battery packs are expensive to manufacture, and electric models are still produced in smaller volumes than gas vehicles.
Operating costs favor electric models over time. Electricity is cheaper than gasoline per mile traveled — the exact difference depends on local electricity rates and fuel prices, but electric operation typically costs one-third to one-half as much as gasoline. Maintenance is simpler: no oil changes, no spark plugs, no transmission servicing, and brake pads last longer because regenerative braking does much of the work. Tire wear is similar between electric and gas models.
The break-even point — where lower fuel and maintenance costs offset the higher purchase price — varies by how much you use the vehicle. If you ride 500 miles per year, break-even might take 10 to 15 years. If you ride 2,000 miles per year, it might take 5 to 8 years. Warranty coverage on batteries typically lasts 5 to 10 years or 50,000 to 100,000 miles, whichever comes first, so the battery should still be under warranty during the break-even period for most owners.
Battery degradation and what to expect over time
All rechargeable batteries lose capacity gradually with age and use. An electric side by side battery might retain 80 to 90 percent of its original capacity after five years of normal use, and 70 to 80 percent after ten years. This degradation is normal and does not mean the battery has failed — it straightforward means each charge cycle stores slightly less energy, so your range decreases slowly over time.
Several factors speed up degradation: frequent fast charging, charging to 100 percent regularly, leaving the battery fully discharged for long periods, and exposure to extreme heat or cold. Most manufacturers recommend charging to 80 percent for daily use and using fast chargers only when necessary. Storing the vehicle in a climate-controlled space and keeping the battery at a moderate charge level during off-season storage extends battery life.
Replacement batteries are expensive — often $3,000 to $8,000 or more depending on capacity — but most owners do not need replacement during the warranty period. After warranty expires, you have the option to replace the battery, accept the reduced range, or sell the vehicle. Some manufacturers offer out-of-warranty battery replacement at a discount, and third-party battery rebuilding services are beginning to emerge in some markets.
Terrain performance and towing capacity
Electric side by sides handle off-road terrain similarly to gas models, with one key advantage: the when ready torque from electric motors often provides better traction in mud and sand because power delivery is smooth and controllable. The low center of gravity of battery packs mounted under the frame can improve stability on uneven ground. However, the added weight of batteries makes the vehicle heavier than a comparable gas model, which affects acceleration and fuel efficiency (or in this case, energy efficiency).
Towing capacity is generally lower on electric models than on gas equivalents of the same size. A gas side by side might tow 1,500 pounds, while an electric version of similar dimensions might tow 800 to 1,200 pounds. This is because electric motors are lighter and less powerful than larger gas engines, and towing drains the battery faster than driving alone. Manufacturers publish towing limits in the owner's manual, and exceeding them can damage the motor and reduce battery life.
Hill climbing ability is strong on electric models because of when ready torque, but steep grades drain the battery quickly. A long uphill climb that would use half a tank of gas might use 30 to 50 percent of your battery charge. Plan your route accordingly if you ride in mountainous terrain, and consider a larger battery if you frequently tackle steep grades.
Where to charge and what infrastructure exists
Home charging is the most convenient option for regular use. A standard 120-volt outlet works but is slow; a dedicated 240-volt charger installed in a garage or shed is much faster and is the standard setup for owners who ride frequently. Installation costs $500 to $2,000 depending on how far the charger is from your electrical panel and whether you need a new circuit.
Public charging infrastructure for side by sides is limited compared to passenger electric vehicles. Some RV parks, campgrounds, and outdoor recreation areas have charging stations, but availability varies by region. Before buying an electric side by side, check what charging options exist near where you ride. Apps like PlugShare and ChargeHub map public chargers, though many are designed for cars and may not be convenient for side by side owners.
Portable chargers are available for some models, allowing you to charge from a standard outlet at a trailhead or campground, though charging speed is slow. Some owners carry a portable charger as a backup for longer trips. If you plan to ride far from home regularly, confirm that charging infrastructure exists along your route before committing to an electric model.
Popular electric side by side models and manufacturers
Several manufacturers now produce electric side by sides, though the market is still much smaller than the gas side by side market. Polaris offers the RZR EV, which comes in multiple battery sizes and is available through Polaris dealers. Can-Am has announced electric models but production is limited. Smaller manufacturers like Renegade and Taiga focus on electric off-road vehicles, though availability and dealer networks vary by region.
Specifications and pricing change frequently as the market develops. Before buying, compare battery capacity, range estimates, towing capacity, warranty terms, and dealer availability in your area. Test-drive models if possible — the driving experience is quite different from gas vehicles, and you should confirm that the acceleration, handling, and noise level suit your preferences.
Used electric side by sides are beginning to appear on the market, but availability is limited and pricing is unpredictable because the market is new. If you buy used, have the battery tested by a dealer or independent technician to confirm its health and remaining capacity. Battery condition is the most important factor in a used electric side by side's value and usability.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to charge an electric side by side?
Charging time depends on the charger type. A standard 120-volt household outlet takes 8 to 12 hours for a full charge. A 240-volt home charger takes 4 to 8 hours. Public fast chargers can reach 80 percent in 1 to 3 hours, though the final 20 percent charges more slowly. Most owners charge overnight at home.
Can I use an electric side by side in rain or water?
Yes, electric side by sides are sealed and waterproofed similarly to gas models. The battery and motor are protected from water splash and light rain. However, submerging the vehicle or crossing deep water can damage electrical components. Follow the same water-crossing guidelines as you would for a gas side by side.
What happens if the battery dies while I'm riding?
The vehicle will gradually lose power as the battery depletes, similar to how a gas engine loses power as fuel runs out. You will not suddenly stop; instead, acceleration and top speed will decrease. Most models have a low-battery warning, giving you time to head back to a charging location. Plan your rides to stay within your vehicle's range.
Are electric side by sides quieter than gas models?
Yes, significantly. Electric motors are nearly silent compared to gasoline engines. You will hear tire noise and wind noise, but not engine noise. This makes electric models better for riding in areas with noise restrictions or early morning and evening use near residential areas.
Do I need a special license or registration for an electric side by side?
Registration and licensing requirements are the same as for gas side by sides and depend on your state and how you use the vehicle. Off-road-only vehicles typically do not require registration. Vehicles used on public roads must be registered and insured. Check your state's off-road vehicle regulations for specific rules.