Creating Your Own Electric Honda ATV Is an Impressive DIY Endeavor

      RMS Builds via YouTube

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      Similar to electric vehicles, battery-operated ATVs can be a practical choice. However, the transition to electric for off-road recreational and utility vehicles is advancing at a much slower rate, resulting in limited options. This is where a DIY solution becomes relevant.

      YouTuber RMS Builds transformed a 2004 Yamaha RC450 to electric power, and the success of that project led to a follow-up. For this new project, a 2006 Honda Rancher was selected as the donor vehicle, chosen specifically for its shaft drive to ensure the final electric ATV is as quiet as possible. The Yamaha, despite lacking an exhaust, still produced quite a lot of noise due to its chain drive. This is discussed in one video, which also explores the fabrication process, while another installment focuses on the assembly and the completed project.

      RMS Builds via YouTube

      A 10-kilowatt (13.4-horsepower) motor is installed in the position of the original gasoline engine and is powered by a 6.1-kilowatt-hour battery pack. The controller and additional electronics are mounted on a plate secured to the upper motor mount. No significant modifications to the frame were required to fit the compact electric motor, but connecting its output shaft to the universal joint that transmits power to the rear differential involved considerable machining.

      With the batteries included, the Rancher has a weight of 487 pounds, making it roughly 10 pounds lighter than the lightest factory model, according to the builder. The estimated range is around 35 miles under typical conditions. Although it couldn’t outperform a stock gasoline-powered Rancher in a couple of drag races, that wasn't the objective of this conversion.

      I Built The Quietest ATV Ever | Electric Honda Rancher Conversion

      The primary aim was to create a quieter ATV, and the combination of electric power and the Rancher’s shaft drive definitely accomplished that. While there’s a discernible motor whine, the electric ATV remains much quieter than its gasoline equivalent. Additionally, it lacks the rattling chain noise typical of RMS Builds' Yamaha, especially at higher speeds.

      No open vehicle will be entirely silent in motion, but the absence of idling noise when stationary is certainly a plus. It enhances the experience of enjoying secluded locations that you've made the effort to reach. This is part of what makes electric off-road vehicles attractive, so why should ATV riders miss out?