It was bound to happen. Once cars started going electric, it was only a matter of time before everything else on wheels followed. The real question is — is it actually a good thing to have UTVs powered by batteries instead of internal combustion engines (ICE)?

In some cases, sure, it’s not a terrible idea. But let’s be honest — practicality is still a big issue. The biggest problems? Range, recharging, and, believe it or not, noise.

Here’s an example: I used to archery hunt. You’ve got to be at least 60 yards from your target to be accurate. When you’re out there with a gas-powered quad or side-by-side, the animal’s attention is usually on the sound of the engine — not you. Sometimes, if you’re hunting with a buddy, one can drive ahead to keep the animal distracted while you line up your shot. If those machines were dead silent? I’m not so sure that trick would work as well. It doesn’t mean you couldn’t still score, but it definitely changes the game.

And then there’s the big one — range. Last I checked, there aren’t any charging stations out in the middle of nowhere. I sure don’t want to be back at camp listening to a generator humming all night just so I can ride again in the morning. What happens if you go on a long haul and run out of juice? You can’t exactly toss a battery in the back of your buddy’s ride like a gas can and call it good.

Same goes for camping. I love heading out to the wilderness with my UTV, but how am I supposed to recharge for the next day’s adventure? If you’re just cruising around your property, fine — it makes sense, and your neighbors will probably appreciate the quiet.

Now, to be fair, some of these new electric machines are pretty impressive. Tons of horsepower and torque — they flat-out rip. But still, no engine noise? That’s a deal breaker for me. The silence might be great for some people, but to me, that engine rumble is part of the fun — it’s the soundtrack of the ride. Without it, it just feels… dull.

Anyway, battery-powered UTVs are here, and they’re not going anywhere. If you’re into the idea, go for it. As for me, I’ll probably wait a few years — when I’m old and worn out and the battery tech has caught up.

Here are a few that have caught my eye:

RANGER XP Kinetic: Looks to be a great workhorse for small duties: Link to Polaris site.

Landmaster AMP: An up and coming American made company light duty UTV’s: Link to Landmaster site.

Greenworks: Another up and coming company offering battery operated utility vehicles: Link to Greenworks.

HuntV Switchback: The Switchback HYBRID-ELECTRIC CREW 4X4: Another UTV that is not only electric but also has a back up gas motor: Link to Switchback:

Vanderhall: Falling into the Sport category the Brawley GTS looks like it would be a ton of fun until the battery runs out. Hopefully they will be available soon: Link to Vanderhall:

Segway Super Villain SX20T Hybrid: Segway has gotten serious about its releases of UTV’s and this one is no exception. Should be a hot ticket and I like the hybrid part about it as well. The only issue is weight, its a 3196 pounder! Link to SuperVillian here.