Introduction to EVs and Hybrids in Off-Roading
Off-roading has always been about adventure, capability, and pushing vehicles beyond pavement. For decades, internal combustion engine (ICE) rigs—powered by gasoline or diesel—have dominated trails. These machines offer quick refueling, aftermarket support, and rugged dependability.
But the landscape is changing. Electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids are entering the off-road world, offering exciting new benefits like instant torque, smooth throttle control, and quiet operation. At the same time, they face unique challenges, including limited range, heavier weight, and reduced charging opportunities in remote areas.
This course explores the differences between ICE, EV, and hybrid off-roading.
You’ll learn about their strengths and weaknesses, how to prepare for off-road adventures in each, and the best practices for tackling trails responsibly.
EV Power
EVs, however, rely on high-voltage batteries and electric motors. They store energy chemically in large packs and deliver it as electricity to the wheels. This setup is highly efficient and produces instant torque without the need to rev or shift gears. EVs excel at technical terrain because of their smooth and precise power delivery.
Hybrid Power
Still, ICE vehicles retain an advantage in endurance. Carrying extra gas is easy, while EVs cannot simply strap a spare battery to the roof. Off-roaders must understand this trade-off before committing to trails with an EV.
Hybrid power is the best of both worlds, using a traditional engine while also using a battery to help push the vehicle, it also improves fuel MPG generally speaking.
EV PowerDrop in EV Power Off-Roading
Range is the most pressing issue for EV off-roaders. On highways, EVs may boast 250–350 miles of range, but on trails, that number drops significantly. Crawling over rocks, climbing steep grades, or powering accessories like winches and lights can cut usable range in half or more.
Charging is another obstacle. Unlike ICE vehicles, which can be topped off at gas stations or with portable fuel cans, EVs need access to high-powered chargers. Unfortunately, these are scarce in rural areas. Some EV off-roaders rely on campgrounds with RV hookups, portable solar systems, or even gas-powered generators. While these methods work, they are slow compared to filling a fuel tank.
Proper planning is critical. EV off-roaders must always factor in their round-trip energy needs and ensure they can get back to a charging station.
Weight and Ground Clearance
EVs tend to be much heavier than ICE vehicles, largely due to their battery packs. This added weight has mixed effects. On one hand, it can improve traction in rocky conditions. On the other, it increases the risk of sinking in mud, sand, or snow. Suspension components are also under more stress, meaning durability upgrades may be needed.
Battery placement affects ground clearance as well. Many EVs mount their packs low in the chassis, which helps with stability but reduces clearance. Since the battery is a critical and expensive component, most EVs come equipped with skid plates or shielding. For serious off-roading, reinforced skid plates are highly recommended to protect the undercarriage.
Water is a BIG Risk Factor
Water hazards and extreme weather affect EVs differently than ICE rigs. ICE vehicles risk stalling if water floods the intake or exhaust, and exposed electronics like alternators can fail. EVs don’t have intakes or exhausts, and their battery packs are usually sealed, giving them an edge in water crossings. That said, deep or prolonged submersion can still damage sensitive components.
Weather is another factor. Cold temperatures reduce EV battery efficiency and range, sometimes by 30% or more. Hot weather increases cooling demands, which also drains power. ICE vehicles are affected by weather too, but their performance drop is usually less severe. EV owners must pay closer attention to seasonal conditions when planning trail rides.
Torque and Control Advantages
One of the greatest strengths of EVs is their torque delivery. Unlike ICE engines that require RPMs and gear changes to build power, EV motors provide maximum torque instantly. This makes them excellent for rock crawling, steep ascents, and other technical maneuvers where low-speed precision is key.
EV throttle control is smoother and more predictable than that of ICE vehicles. This allows drivers to maintain traction with minimal wheel spin, giving them more control over obstacles. Many EVs also feature regenerative braking, which slows the vehicle by converting motion back into stored energy. This provides an advantage during steep descents, acting like an engine brake and reducing wear on traditional brakes.
Bridging the Gap
Hybrids bridge the gap between ICE and EV off-roading. Standard hybrids use a combination of a gasoline engine and a small battery to improve efficiency. Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) expand this idea, allowing the vehicle to drive a short distance—often 20 to 50 miles—on electric power alone before switching to gasoline.
For off-roading, this hybrid system offers flexibility. Drivers can use electric torque for quiet, low-speed crawling, then rely on gasoline for extended trips. Hybrids also avoid much of the range anxiety that plagues full EVs. The trade-off is weight, since hybrids carry both an engine and a battery. Still, they represent a practical middle ground for those who want some EV benefits without fully giving up ICE convenience.
Best Pratices
Successful off-roading with EVs or hybrids requires careful planning and strategy. Always begin with route research, ensuring that your vehicle’s range covers both the trail and the return trip. Factor in terrain, weather, and elevation, as each can reduce efficiency.
Reduce unnecessary weight to extend range, and make use of regenerative braking whenever possible. Carry vehicle-specific recovery gear, and never travel alone if you can avoid it. For hybrid drivers, plan when to use electric mode strategically—for example, relying on battery power in technical sections where precise torque is most helpful, then switching to gasoline for longer stretches.
By combining preparation with smart driving, EV and hybrid owners can successfully explore the trails while adapting to the challenges of new technology.