The Rise of Electric Off-Road DIY Projects

While the automotive world is rapidly shifting toward electrification, the off-road segment remains somewhat behind the curve, offering few factory-made electric options. For enthusiasts eager to blend utility with battery power, the DIY route has become a popular solution. A prominent example comes from YouTuber RMS Builds, who has successfully completed his second major conversion project, transforming a 2006 Honda Rancher into an electric-powered machine.


Technical Setup and Engineering

The choice of the 2006 Honda Rancher was strategic. Unlike the builder's previous Yamaha conversion, which relied on a noisy chain drive, the Rancher features a shaft drive system. By pairing this mechanical configuration with an electric powertrain, the builder aimed to minimize operational noise as much as possible.


Key specifications of the build include:

  • Powertrain: A 10-kilowatt (13.4-horsepower) motor installed in the original engine bay.
  • Energy Storage: A 6.1-kilowatt-hour battery pack.
  • Control System: Electronics and the controller are mounted on a custom plate secured to the top motor bracket.

Integrating the electric motor required precision. While the frame remained largely stock, the builder faced significant challenges in machining the output shaft to align correctly with the universal joint connected to the rear differential.


Performance and Real-World Utility

Despite the addition of heavy battery components, the electrified Rancher weighs in at 487 pounds—approximately 10 pounds lighter than the original factory model. In terms of capability, the vehicle boasts an estimated range of 35 miles under typical riding conditions. While the builder noted that it didn't outperform a stock internal combustion Rancher in drag races, speed was not the primary objective.


The project successfully achieved its goal of creating a quieter riding experience. By eliminating the internal combustion engine and the rattling chain drive, the ATV is significantly more peaceful to operate. As the builder noted, the absence of idling noise during stops allows for a deeper appreciation of the quiet natural surroundings during excursions.


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

This build serves as a proof-of-concept for the potential of electric off-roading, proving that enthusiasts don't have to wait for major manufacturers to embrace the technology to enjoy the benefits of a silent, emission-free adventure vehicle.