Kawasaki Enters the Electric UTV Market
Electric power continues its expansion into the UTV/SxS market, with several manufacturers, including Polaris, already offering electric models. Now, Kawasaki is joining the fray with its new NAV 4e.
The NAV 4e, or Neighborhood Activity Vehicle, is designed to seat four and boasts a range of up to 40 miles, according to Kawasaki. Prices begin at $12,999, and the vehicle is available this month. This move signals another step in the UTV industry’s path towards electric vehicles, mirroring the evolution already seen in the automotive sector.
UTVs, or Utility Terrain Vehicles (also known as Side-by-Sides or SxS), are compact, lightweight, and often affordable vehicles that provide a lot of fun. Recently, a UTV even won the King of the Hammers off-road race, leveraging its light build and a modified suspension to conquer obstacles.
Traditionally, Kawasaki’s SxS models have relied on gasoline engines. However, the rise of the electric vehicle market has spurred UTV manufacturers to explore electric options.
Polaris, a market leader, introduced the Ranger Pro XD Full-Size Kinetic pickup two years ago, priced from $30,394. Other contenders include the Bighorn Wildcat E5, priced at $7,499, and the Kandi Kruiser, available from Camping World for $7,999. Even John Deere offers an electric variant of its popular Gator UTV, the GS Electric Utility Vehicle.
Now, Kawasaki, the maker of the Mule, Ridge, and Teryx SxS models, is entering the electric arena with its all-electric NAV 4e series.
“Kawasaki’s first-ever electric four-wheeled vehicle is more than just a way to cruise the neighborhood or run errands, it is a new way of life,” Kawasaki stated. “You will no longer be going to your neighbors, or the local pickleball court, you will NAV to your desired location.”
NAV, which stands for Neighborhood Activity Vehicle, shares similarities with the GEM NEVs from previous years. While NEV stood for Neighborhood Electric Vehicle, Kawasaki clarifies that the NAV 4e is classified as a Personal Transportation Vehicle (PTV), and not a golf cart.
The NAV 4e is powered by a rear-mounted AC motor that delivers a maximum power output of 10.7 kW (14.3 hp), with a top speed of 19 mph. It includes a single reduction gear, with the motor and transmission integrated into the rear axle. The NAV 4e comes in three configurations.
The LE and Limited models feature twin 3.2-kWh lithium-ion batteries, providing a maximum range of 40 miles and are “ideal for carrying passengers on longer trips;” the base NAV 4e comes with six lead-acid batteries, which offer a maximum range of 17.5 miles. Regenerative braking helps extend the effective range.
The NAV 4e includes four forward-facing seats, with the rear two folding flat for cargo. The top-tier NAV 4e Limited features a 7-inch full-color TFT LCD screen compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Limited also has four 6.5-inch roof-mounted speakers, allowing you to play music during parades. A subwoofer is available through Kawasaki Genuine Accessories, fitting into the under-hood storage compartment.
Prices for the NAV 4e range from $12,999 to $19,999, and the vehicles will be available this month.
