The Appeal of DIY Electric Off-Roading

While the automotive world is rapidly shifting toward electrification, the off-road recreation market remains underserved. With limited options available from major manufacturers, enthusiasts are increasingly turning to custom builds to modernize their utility vehicles. For those who want to blend classic durability with modern performance, the DIY route offers a unique solution.


Choosing the Right Platform

YouTuber RMS Builds recently documented an ambitious project: converting a 2006 Honda Rancher into a battery-powered machine. This specific donor vehicle was chosen primarily for its shaft drive system. The builder aimed to maximize silence, noting that previous projects using chain drives resulted in significant mechanical noise. By utilizing a shaft drive, the builder ensured that the vehicle remains as unobtrusive as possible in natural settings.


Technical Specifications and Integration

The conversion process involved replacing the internal combustion engine with a 10-kilowatt (13.4-horsepower) electric motor, paired with a 6.1-kilowatt-hour battery pack. Key engineering highlights include:

  • Electronics Placement: A custom plate attached to the top motor mount houses the controller and essential electronics.
  • Frame Integrity: The compact nature of the electric motor meant that no major structural frame modifications were required.
  • Drivetrain Customization: Significant machining work was performed to ensure the motor's output shaft successfully connected with the universal joint responsible for powering the rear differential.

Performance and Results

The final weight of the electric Rancher sits at 487 pounds—roughly 10 pounds lighter than the original factory model. In terms of performance, the vehicle boasts an estimated range of 35 miles under standard riding conditions. While the builder admitted the custom ATV did not outpace a stock gasoline version in drag races, speed was not the primary objective of the build.


“The real goal was to make a quieter ATV, and combining electric power with the Rancher's shaft drive definitely did the trick.”

A Quieter Trail Experience

The transition to electric power successfully achieved a much lower noise profile. Beyond eliminating engine vibration and exhaust drone, the absence of chain slap makes the machine significantly more pleasant to operate at higher speeds. Perhaps the most rewarding aspect is the silence during stops; the lack of idling noise allows riders to better enjoy the remote locations they have traveled to reach. This project serves as a compelling reminder that the benefits of electric mobility are just as relevant on the trail as they are on the road.