Summary
- Off-road focused EVs are becoming more popular, with manufacturers focusing on SUV options rather than sedans or coupes
- Existing off-road focused EVs include the Rivian R1S, Ford Mustang Mach-E Rally, GMC Hummer EV SUV, and the Munro Mk.1
- Upcoming off-road focused EVs include the Rivian R2, Scout SUV, Mercedes G-Class, a smaller EV G-Class model, Lucid’s off-road crossover, and a Jeep Recon
- The Jeep Recon will share a platform with the Wagoneer S, which is more aimed at luxurious on-road transportation
- Ineos is planning to release a smaller off-roader called the Fusilier, available as a full EV with a targeted range of 248 miles on the WLTP cycle
Article
Off-road focused electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular, as interest in adventure vehicles grows in America. EV buyers are more interested in crossovers and SUVs rather than sedans, hatchbacks, wagons, and coupes, prompting manufacturers to focus on filling out their EV lineups with more SUV options. There are already a handful of off-road-focused EVs on the market, such as the Rivian R1S, Ford Mustang Mach-E Rally, GMC Hummer EV SUV, and the Munro Mk.1. These vehicles promise to take drivers into nature without any tailpipe emissions. Many more off-road EV options are expected to arrive in the next few years, from both established automakers and newer companies dedicated solely to EVs.
Rivian has proven its capability in the off-road EV market with its R1T and R1S models, which recently underwent an overhaul to enhance performance. The company is targeting higher-volume sales with its upcoming R2 model, which will offer similar off-road capabilities to the R1 models but in a smaller, more affordable package. The Rivian R2 is set to enter production in the first half of 2026, offering various configurations including single-motor rear-wheel drive and dual- and tri-motor all-wheel drive. Another exciting upcoming off-road EV is the Scout SUV, styled to resemble the International Harvester Scout off-roader. Under Volkswagen’s umbrella, the Scout will be designed as a rugged vehicle specifically for off-road use, built on a bespoke EV platform and set to enter production in 2026.
Mercedes has launched an electric version of the iconic G-Class, known as the G580 with EQ Technology, retaining the rugged off-road capabilities of the original but with enhancements such as four individual electric motors for precise torque control. The automaker also plans to introduce a smaller electric sibling to the G-Class around 2026, offering a more affordable entry point into G-Class ownership with bespoke architecture focused on off-road performance. Lucid, known for its luxury electric vehicles, is working on a range of midsize models, including an off-road-focused crossover, aiming to increase total sales significantly. Jeep is also venturing into the electric market with the Recon model, offering removable doors and the potential for combustion power. The Recon will share a platform with the larger Wagoneer S, designed for luxurious on-road transportation.
Jeep plans to introduce an electric version of the Wrangler by 2027, which is expected to offer over 600 horsepower and impressive performance for off-road driving. Range Rover is also entering the EV market with an electric version of its flagship model, designed to closely resemble the combustion model with subtle details signaling its electric powertrain. Ineos announced the Fusilier, a smaller off-roader that will be available as a full EV or extended-range EV, with production expected to start in 2027 and a targeted range of 248 miles on the WLTP cycle. The growing popularity of off-road-focused EVs indicates a shift in consumer preferences towards environmentally-friendly adventure vehicles with impressive capabilities both on- and off-road.
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