I'm a big proponent of hybrid technology, as I think it gives you the best of both worlds. Not only do you keep the longevity of a gasoline engine's range, but the hybrid system fills in torque gap, as well as reduces your overall emissions when you're just tootling around in EV-mode.
Win-win.
But while the automotive and motorcycling worlds have caught onto this to varying degrees, it's weird that UTVs really haven't. I mean, it makes sense for a car or truck to be a hybrid. It even sorta makes sense for a motorcycle, though the package is way tighter. But a UTV has so much room, both under the hood, as well as throughout the cabin, why not just slap a hybrid system into it?
Well, that's now occurring, though not through any factory program from Can-Am, Polaris, Kawasaki, Honda, or John Deere. Rather, it's coming from the aftermarket thanks to OMI, the folks who designed the system, and Upfit UTV, a Fox Factory affiliate that specializes in outfitting UTVs for specific needs. And, well, the system looks pretty dang dope if you ask me.
OMI calls the system its Fusion Drive, but it's less Star Trek than it sounds. Basically, there's a battery that goes beneath the seats and attaches to the side-by-side's frame. The front differential is then removed and replaced by an electric motor, keeping it all-wheel-drive, but the front wheels are now exclusively electrically driven. The driver can then toggle between the gas and electric motors, or both, through a switch on the dash.
Neat.
According to the companies, "OMI Fusion-Drive’s scalable design allows installation without chassis modification across a range of vehicle models, enabling fast installation and more product choices. OMI’s pre-integration and platform-level optimizations reduce cost, weight, and space, helping OEMs and upfitters cut development time from years to months." Basically, all this means is that it's a drop-in solution, making it so you don't need pricey and long-gestating modifications to your UTV in order for the system to work. This makes it ideal for both private and public sector customers, as well as individual owners.
The release also cites how this system could be used by special forces units around the world where "stealth and reliability" are paramount.
"OMI Fusion-Drive lets us deliver game-changing performance for off-road vehicles,” stated Justin Smith, CEO of Upfit UTV, adding, "The combination of power, adaptability, and advanced technology ensures we’re meeting the needs of even the most demanding applications."
Currently, the companies are gearing up to begin production of these hybrid UTVs in the first quarter of 2026, so we're still a ways away. But, the groups say that the first platform they'll be servicing will be Polaris' Ranger 1500, though the graphic associated with the Fusion-Drive clearly shows an RZR frame. And while I'd love to tell you how much the system will cost you, neither stated the price anywhere in the press release.
Until we learn that figure, however, it's a pretty neat system, especially since it's basically plug-and-play. Will it catch on, however, is the biggest question. One the market, and worldwide governments will likely have a hand in controlling.
