Supercar, futuristic, luxury kidde, amphibious, tank-like, urbanized, hipster, and self inflating: these are just a few of the ATV (All-Terrain Vehicles) styles available these days. A small but growing number of ATV manufacturers have begun integrating eco-electric clean technology into their offerings and the results are impressive.
Industrial and automotive designer, Facundo Elia, known for its Audi and RAM Torino designs and innovative industrial creations, has created an eco-electric ATV called Quad that illustrates the current trend toward environmentally friendly ATVs.
The green and clean Quad is a four wheeled, off-road ATV that operates for three hours on a 6 to 8 hour charge. The Quad is powered by four 750 ampere batteries to power its emission free 48V motor. The Quad is capable of traversing rough terrain and hills like a mountain bike or small motorcycle.
Another company called Doran Electric Vehicles has been building electric ATVs, called e-ATVs, for years. The first comment Doran usually hears from a new customer is how quiet the vehicle is. The next comment is about the complete lack of gas odors and noxious fumes. Doran says it’s e-ATVs are about 40% more powerful than the best golf carts. This is primarily due to using a rear axle gear ratio of 14.71:1 compared with a golf cart’s 12.5:1.
Doran’s e-ATV is more efficient because of less rolling resistance that comes from narrower tires and a better steering geometry. The e-ATV weighs less than half the weight of a golf cart and so has better acceleration and power to climb hills. Finally, the e-ATV uses regenerative braking to recharge the battery while in use.
Another major player in the electric ATV market is Bad Boy Buggies which provides both Sport and Work versions of its product in both electric and hybrid versions. Bad Boy Buggies believes that in the woods noise has no place. Bad Boy Buggies feature a ROPS (Rollover Protection Structure), sun canopy, winch mount, camouflage, fog lamps, headrests, rearview mirrors, license plates, hand throttle, windshield and a bed extension kit. It’s whisper quiet electric drive trains include 2WD and 4WD electric powered motors that can be switched to gas on the fly with the flip of a switch. Bad Boy Buggies work version is popular on farms.
Consumers are now more interested in green technology than ever before and in the ATV market manufacturers are stepping up and delivering quality innovative products.
