Electric vehicles (EVs) are the darlings of the city streets, gliding silently through traffic and showing off their eco-friendly credentials. However, as technology evolves, so does the ambition of EV manufacturers. No longer content with dominating the asphalt, some electric vehicles are now proving they have what it takes to tackle the great outdoors. Yes, you heard that right—these battery-powered beasts are ready to leave the pavement behind and get their tires dirty. Here are 8 electric vehicles with unexpected off-road capabilities.
Rivian R1T
When you think of an off-road vehicle, a rugged truck is the first image that comes to mind. Enter the Rivian R1T, an electric pickup that looks the part and performs like a seasoned adventurer. This all-wheel-drive (AWD) monster boasts four independent electric motors, one for each wheel, which translates to mind-boggling torque and precise control on challenging terrain. With 14 inches of ground clearance and an adjustable air suspension, the R1T can rise to the occasion when the trail gets tough. But it’s not all about brute strength. The R1T is also packed with smart features like a built-in kitchen option for overlanders and a gear tunnel perfect for storing muddy gear. Plus, with a range of up to 314 miles, you won’t have to worry about getting stranded in the wilderness.
Ford F-150 Lightning
The Ford F-150 has long been America’s favorite truck, but the Lightning version takes things to a new level. This electric variant doesn’t just match its gas-powered siblings in off-road capability—it surpasses them in many ways. The F-150 Lightning comes with dual motors that provide instant torque, which is a game-changer when you’re trying to crawl over rocks or climb steep inclines. With an available off-road package with skid plates and all-terrain tires, the Lightning is ready to tackle rough trails. And if you’re planning a weekend camping trip, the F-150 Lightning’s Pro Power Onboard feature can power your gear, including lights, coolers, and even a portable stove. With a range of up to 320 miles and the ability to tow up to 10,000 pounds, this truck is as practical as it is powerful. It’s like having a power station on wheels that can also take you deep into the wild.
Bollinger B2
The Bollinger B2 doesn’t try to hide its off-road intentions. With its boxy design and military-grade build, it looks like it was designed to storm a fortress rather than cruise down the highway. This electric truck is built for serious off-road enthusiasts, boasting 15 inches of ground clearance, 10 inches of wheel travel, and a hydropneumatic suspension that adapts to any terrain you throw at it. The B2’s all-aluminum body is lightweight and durable, making it a perfect companion for rough trails. And with its dual motors producing a combined 614 horsepower, this electric beast can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds—sure to raise some eyebrows among traditional off-roaders. Just ensure you know where the nearest charging station is before heading too far off the beaten path.
Jeep Wrangler 4xe
When Jeep decided to electrify its iconic Wrangler, it didn’t just slap a battery on and call it a day. The Wrangler 4xe is a plug-in hybrid that blends the best of both worlds—electric efficiency and off-road prowess. With its electric motor providing instant torque, the 4xe can conquer obstacles that would leave other vehicles spinning their wheels. And when you’re deep in the wilderness with no charging station in sight, the gas engine kicks in to keep you going. Plus, with a combined range of up to 370 miles (including 21 miles of all-electric driving), the 4xe lets you explore the great outdoors without leaving a trail of emissions behind. The Wrangler 4xe also comes with all the off-road features that have made the Wrangler a legend, including locking differentials, skid plates, and a disconnecting sway bar for extra articulation. It’s the perfect ride for those who want to go green without sacrificing the thrill of off-roading.
Tesla Cybertruck
Love it or hate it, there’s no denying that the Tesla Cybertruck is a head-turner. Its angular, stainless-steel exoskeleton looks like something straight out of a sci-fi movie, but don’t let that fool you—this electric truck is built to take a beating. The Cybertruck’s all-wheel-drive system, powered by up to three electric motors, allows it to conquer rugged terrain easily. With a claimed ground clearance of up to 16 inches and a maximum towing capacity of 14,000 pounds, the Cybertruck is as tough as unconventional. It also boasts a range of up to 500 miles, which is more than enough for even the most ambitious off-road excursions. The truck’s vault-like bed and built-in ramps make it easy to load up your gear, whether hauling ATVs or construction materials.
Hummer EV
When you hear “Hummer,” you probably think of a massive, gas-guzzling behemoth. But the new Hummer EV is rewriting the script. This electric juggernaut combines the off-road capabilities that made the original Hummer famous with the cutting-edge technology of the electric age. With its tri-motor setup delivering 1,000 horsepower and 11,500 lb.-ft of torque, the Hummer EV is a force to be reckoned with. The Hummer EV’s off-road chops are bolstered by features like Crabwalk, which allows the truck to move diagonally to avoid obstacles, and Extract Mode, which raises the vehicle by 6 inches for extra ground clearance. And with a 0-60 mph time of just 3 seconds, the Hummer EV proves that you don’t need gasoline to go fast or dominate the most challenging trails.
Audi e-tron
The Audi e-tron may not look like an off-road warrior, but don’t let its sleek, city-friendly design fool you. This luxury SUV has a few tricks that make it surprisingly capable when the pavement ends. With a range of around 222 miles, the e-tron may not be suited for deep wilderness expeditions, but it can handle a weekend getaway to your favorite off-grid destination. Equipped with Quattro all-wheel drive and a sophisticated air suspension, the e-tron can easily handle rough roads and light trails. The e-tron’s dual electric motors provide smooth, instantaneous power, making it easy to navigate challenging terrain. It also offers up to 8 inches of ground clearance to tackle dirt roads and uneven surfaces without breaking a sweat.
Mercedes-Benz EQC 4×4²
Mercedes-Benz isn’t a brand you typically associate with off-roading, but the EQC 4×4² is here to change that perception. This concept vehicle transforms the standard EQC SUV into a rugged off-road machine, complete with portal axles and massive off-road tires. The result is a luxury EV that can tackle terrain most other vehicles wouldn’t dare approach. The EQC 4×4² boasts an impressive ground clearance of 11.5 inches and can ford water up to 15 inches deep, making it ideal for river crossings and muddy trails. Its dual motors provide plenty of power for climbing steep hills and navigating rocky paths. At the same time, the vehicle’s advanced traction control system ensures you stay in control no matter the conditions.
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