Polaris and MEDC Launch Off-Road EV Charging Network in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula

Polaris Inc. and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) have unveiled a first-of-its-kind off-road electric vehicle (EV) charging network in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

Supported by a Mobility Public-Private Partnership & Programming (MP4) grant of $700,000 from the Michigan Office of Future Mobility & Electrification’s (OFME) program initiated a year ago, the off-road EV charging network spans around 100 miles of off-road trails.

Andrew Chasse, Vice President of Strategy and Partnerships at Polaris, expressed enthusiasm in the collaboration with the State of Michigan, stating, “Polaris and Michigan are connected in our efforts to bring exciting innovation and the latest technology to outdoor recreation.” He thanked the Michigan Economic Development Corporation for the opportunity to contribute to such a vital initiative.

Moreover, Polaris had also teamed up with Yotta Energy to deliver the charging hardware with Yotta’s REV charging station which is an integrated, scalable EV charging solution that includes solar production capacity and 120kWh of onboard energy storage. As the EV charging network is located in off-road trails, the charging solution can be grid-connected or operate completely off-grid, which can be used in remote areas.

Furthermore, Polaris has introduced its first all-electric RANGER XP Kinetic rental experience. Located in Hamilton’s North Coast Adventures in Michigan, the rentals of the RANGER XP Kinetic will provide customers the chance to explore Michigan’s western Upper Peninsula trails in one of the off-road EVs.

Gray Rentz, vice president of Polaris Experience, Polaris, expressed excitement for customers on this off-road EV rental experience stating, “Polaris Adventures was started with the goal of helping more people experience powersports and discover new ways to enjoy the outdoors, and this launch of our first electric off-road vehicle rental experience in the country will continue to do just that,.”

As Polaris furthers efforts to integrate EV technology into the powersports industry and elevate innovation in off-road charging solutions, the company is heading to new heights while focusing on improving the customer experience and the EV industry.

Want to learn more about EV? Thinking of buying an EV? Head over to EV.com and discover more.