FYI: The automotive industry is experiencing a surge in off-road electric vehicles, driven by consumer demand for versatile SUVs and crossovers. Here’s a look at the current and forthcoming EV models targeting off-road enthusiasts.
The Shift Towards Off-Road Electric Vehicles
Electric vehicle (EV) buyers have shown a clear preference for crossovers and SUVs, leaving behind sedans, hatchbacks, wagons, and coupes. This trend has consequently influenced manufacturers to enrich their EV lineups with an array of SUV options. As America’s fascination with adventure vehicles deepens, more off-road-capable EVs are hitting the market.
Off-Road EVs You Can Buy Today
Rivian R1S
- One of the top choices for outdoor enthusiasts
- Versatile and capable both on and off the road
Ford Mustang Mach-E Rally
- Ideal for those wanting to experience rally-style driving on loose surfaces
- Not the best for hardcore rock crawling but offers a fun driving experience
GMC Hummer EV SUV
- Strong power and traction, but its heavy build makes it less maneuverable for serious off-roading
Munro Mk.1
- Scottish-built with solid axles and ample wheel articulation
- Limited production numbers and availability
Off-Road EVs On The Horizon
Rivian R2
- A smaller, more affordable model set to debut by mid-2026
- Offered in single-motor rear-wheel drive, dual-, and tri-motor all-wheel-drive configurations
- No air suspension system, but still more capable off-road than most in its size range
Scout Electric SUV
- Designed to reflect the International Harvester Scout of the 1960s-1980s
- Built under Volkswagen’s umbrella with a rugged, off-road focus
- Production to begin in a South Carolina factory in 2026
Mercedes G580 with EQ Technology
- An electric twist on the iconic G-Class, set to offer advanced features like individual wheel motors for superior off-road capability
- Expected to debut around 2026, equipped with four motors for a combined 579 horsepower and 859 lb-ft of torque
Lucid’s Mysterious Off-Road Crossover
- Aimed to compete with the Tesla Model Y
- Hinted to be an off-road-focused crossover, adding to Lucid’s ambition to scale up sales
Jeep Recon and Wagoneer S
- Recon: Priced at around $60,000, offers removable doors like an ICE Wrangler, built on the STLA Large Platform
- Wagoneer S: More luxurious, with a dual-motor configuration producing 600 horsepower and targeting a 300-mile range
Ineos Fusilier
- A smaller sibling to the Ineos Grenadier, available as a full EV and extended-range EV
- Production planned for 2027 with an anticipated WLTP range of 248 miles
Expected Launches and Developments
Electric Range Rover
- Based on the combustion model with subtle design changes to highlight its electric nature
- Specs and range details to be revealed closer to its early 2025 debut
Future Electric Wrangler
- Expected post-2027, with performance specs likely to exceed 600 horsepower
- An electric evolution of Jeep’s iconic model, signaled by the Magneto concept
Conclusion
As consumer interest in adventure-ready vehicles continues to rise, the shift to electric off-road vehicles is gaining momentum. The evolving landscape sees established automakers and newcomers alike betting on off-road-capable EVs to capture the spirit of adventure without compromising on emission standards.
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William Kouch, Editor of Automotive.fyi
