Cheap mini e-truck? Flying electric boats? Top 5 wildest non-car EVs I tested this year
One of my favorite things about the electric vehicle industry is just how much diversity there is in the designs and types of EVs hitting the market. Part of that is due to the way electric drivetrains help break the mold of aging design constraints, but it’s also due to a new wave of forward-thinking engineers boldly pushing products in new and exciting directions.
As Electrek‘s resident tester of all things not-cars, I was fortunate enough to get behind, on top, and inside of some interesting and far-out forms of electric transportation. Here are the top five wildest and most awesome personal electric vehicles I tested in 2022.
Polaris RANGER XP Kinetic
The Polaris RANGER XP Kinetic blew me away. I didn’t know what to expect going in, but I was grinning so big during my test ride experience that I thought my mouth would get stuck that way.
And the crazy part is that this isn’t meant to be some thrilling joyride – these are utility vehicles. They’re built for working hard day in and day out, towing trailers, hauling tools, and basically doing whatever utility side-by-sides do on countless farms, ranches, and work sites around the world.
And yet I still felt like I was flying along in an adult go-kart, slinging dirt in every direction when I pulled serious Gs around turns. I know it’s built for work, and it’s great at that. But it’s just so dang fun to drive, too.
The power is unbelievable, and yet the vehicle is still so quiet. That makes it perfect for hunters, nature lovers, and anyone else who wants to trek deep into the woods without disturbing the local fauna.
If you’re in the market for a UTV and want the benefits that electric drive has to offer, the XP Kinetic should be at the top of your list. Good luck getting one though. They sold out nearly instantly when they were unveiled late last year, and who knows when they’ll be able to produce enough of them to supply the current demand.
You’ll definitely want to see it in action in my video below, or check out my full review!
Arcimoto FUV
Why ride around on four wheels when three will do the trick? That’s the idea behind the Arcimoto FUV, which is something of an autocycle meets motorcycle-class regulations, creating a super-fun and high-power electric vehicle that turns heads everywhere it goes.
The tadpole trike design puts two wheels up front and makes it super stable. You’re also in a real bucket seat instead of a motorcycle style saddle, meaning sharp turns still make you feel secure, unlike a three-wheeled motorcycle where you have to lean way over to one side and counterbalance on turns. The Arcimoto FUV is about as car-feeling as you can get on three-wheels.
I had the good fortune of stealing one for a couple days while attending the Micromobility America 2022 conference in San Francisco this fall. There I used it as my main transportation to get around the city. From winding through downtown streets to flying across the bridges at top speed (which is just shy of 80 mph (130 km/h), the FUV was a blast. It basically felt like I was in a street-legal go-kart.
The J-1772 charging means I could pull up to any Level 2 public charger to top up my battery, and the dual seats gave me the option of either carrying a passenger or tossing my bags and other junk in the rear seat. There was also a small locking trunk in back that is big enough for a couple grocery bags or a backpack.
This isn’t the most practical EV I’ve ever seen, but it’s actually got more utility than an electric motorcycle since you can more securely carry passengers and even do some real grocery shopping or other light utility tasks with an FUV. I doubt it would be a good only vehicle for most people, but it would make a great “second car,” even if it’s not really a car.
For funsies, check out my video from my first test ride of an FUV last summer.
Candela C-8
Experiencing Candela’s flying electric boats feels like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Somehow I’ve been lucky enough to have two of those experiences in my lifetime. Last summer I tested the company’s first model, the Candela C-7. This summer I returned to the beautiful Stockholm archipeligo to take a spin on the company’s newest model, the Candela C-8.
The C-8 is a totally different beast. It still flies on a pair of computer-controlled hydrofoils, dropping the energy usage of the boat to a tiny fraction of that of other fossil fuel-powered boats or even V-hull electric boats. But there are major differences compared to the C-7.
The C-8 is larger, has a totally different motor (that is a work of engineering art), is designed for mass production, has a below-deck cabin for sleeping or that can be outfitted with a marine toilet or shower, and has an awesome rear day bed for lounging out on the water.
I was amazed at how easy it was to control the boat, though the simplicity on the pilot’s side is thanks to a super sophisticated hardware and software interaction between a flight computer and the C-8’s hydrofoils. It was all designed in-house by Candela’s engineers and works like a masterpiece of aviation meets maritime technology.
It’s a fascinating electric boat that you should see for yourself in my video below.
LiveWire S2 Del Mar
I tested a lot of awesome electric motorcycles this year, and it’s hard to pick just one for this list. The Energicas were insanely powerful. I had a blast going off-road on the new Zero DSR/X. Smaller e-motos like the Ryvid Anthem and CSC RX1E were each a hoot in their own way. Even the SONDORS Metacycle pleasantly surprised me. But there was nothing like throwing a leg over one of the most anticipated electric motorcycles of the last few years: the LiveWire S2 Del Mar.
LiveWire is the electric motorcycle brand spun-off by Harley-Davidson. It already has a great bike in the form of the LiveWire One, but that model was developed by H-D. LiveWire’s first independent electric motorcycle will be the S2 Del Mar, which isn’t even shipping yet but I somehow still convinced somebody that I was important enough to get a ride on one.
In fact, as far as I can tell I’m one of two journalists to test-ride the LiveWire S2 Del Mar so far, months ahead of its expected rollout. And since the other guy apparently didn’t know which way a motorcycle throttle twists, I’m still kind of thinking I’m it for any detailed reviews in 2022.
The LiveWire S2 Del Mar is largely known as the more affordable successor to the LiveWire One, coming in at closer to $17K, which isn’t cheap but surely will prove more accessible the $23K LiveWire One. And so I thought that the bike would be more toned down compared to the LiveWire One, but boy was I wrong! The S2 Del Mar is a beast in its own right.
The Del Mar has punchy acceleration that takes it up to 60 mph in just over three seconds flat. I think the official time is 3.1 seconds, but your butt won’t be able to tell the difference.
We don’t yet know the real battery or range specs since we’re still waiting on LiveWire to deliver the final details, but don’t expect the bike to be built for touring. I’m guessing we’ll see a battery capacity of around 10 kWh, meaning it will be plenty for commuter use but won’t be impressive when it comes to highway range. But that’s fine by me, since this bike feels like it’s all about the ride. It’s for cruising across LA, not cruising across the country. It’s a powerful bike that gives you all the sportiness you can fit into the city or suburbs, yet has the speed and power to handle the interstate as well – just not for long tours.
The comfortable seating position gives me legit roadster vibes that still carry trace amounts of H-D DNA, yet in an entirely new beast that will surely prove much more attractive to my generation.
Check out my test ride on the Del Mar below.
Chinese electric mini-truck
I can’t get enough of this little electric mini-truck, partly because it’s awesome, but also partly because it’s mine. It’s all mine! I bought it on Alibaba and imported it from China to the US, where it currently lives on my parents’ ranch.
It’s there because it’s not actually street legal, but it still works great as an off-road vehicle. Around the property it gets used for various chores like hauling yard waste, dragging the trash cans down the private road, filling and dumping top soil when planting trees (did I mention it has a hydraulic dump bed?) and just about everything else.
It’s not particularly powerful with around 5 kW of peak power, but that’s plenty for the small and lightweight truck that doesn’t need to go that fast anyway. It cost me $2,000 as the base price, though I put a bunch of upgrades in it before it left China that added to the price, bringing it up to about $3,500. But the larger battery, dump bed and air conditioning were all worth it.
Shipping was another $2,200 to get it to the US, but it was still worth it. A golf cart will run you $8,000-$10,000 these days, so this was better and cheaper. Locking doors, electric windows, real seats, glove box, backup camera, infotainment center and other creature comforts underscore what “real vehicle” this thing is. I’ve been using it all year and it has held up great. My parents have put even more miles on it than I have, and so far we haven’t had any issues.
We’ve even done a number of upgrades including knobby tires, a roof-mounted solar panel, and a planned bed liner (still in the works).
It may look silly, but it’s proven to be well worth the investment (and risk) of bringing it over!
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Enbridge, a Canadian energy company, just announced it’s moving forward with an 815-megawatt (MW) solar project called Sequoia in Texas. When it’s done, it’ll be one of the largest solar farms in North America. The project’s price tag is a hefty $1.1 billion.
Enbridge’s Sequoia, around 150 miles west of Dallas, has already landed long-term power purchase agreements (PPAs) with AT&T and Toyota, ensuring most of its output is sold for years to come. This deal was highlighted in Enbridge’s third-quarter report on Friday.
Sequoia will be built in two phases, with power expected to start flowing in 2025 and 2026. Enbridge says it’s taken steps to reduce risks by securing equipment and procurement contracts in advance. Permits and purchase orders are also locked down.
Toyota’s PPA with Enbridge’s Texas solar project is part of Toyota’s broader push toward sustainability, as the automaker aims to achieve net zero by 2035 and match 45% of its purchased power with renewable electricity by 2026 as it still clings to its “diverse powertrain strategy.”
If you live in an area that has frequent natural disaster events, and are interested in making your home more resilient to power outages, consider going solar and adding a battery storage system. To make sure you find a trusted, reliable solar installer near you that offers competitive pricing, check out EnergySage, a free service that makes it easy for you to go solar. They have hundreds of pre-vetted solar installers competing for your business, ensuring you get high quality solutions and save 20-30% compared to going it alone. Plus, it’s free to use and you won’t get sales calls until you select an installer and share your phone number with them.
Your personalized solar quotes are easy to compare online and you’ll get access to unbiased Energy Advisers to help you every step of the way. Get started here. –trusted affiliate link*
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Environment
NIO’s EV sales top 20,000 for the sixth straight month as new low-cost SUV shows promise
With its new electric SUV rolling out, NIO’s (NIO) sales topped the 20,000 mark again in Oct, its sixth straight month hitting the milestone.
NIO sold 20,976 vehicles last month, up 30.5% from October 2023. The NIO brand sold 16,657 vehicles, while its new “family-oriented smart vehicle brand,” Onvo, contributed 4,319 in its first full sales month.
After launching its new mid-size Onvo L60 electric SUV in September, NIO said production and deliveries are steadily ramping up.
At the end of October, NIO’s Onvo had 166 Centers and Spaces throughout 60 cities. Onvo plans to continue expanding its network to drive future growth.
NIO’s new electric SUV starts at around $21,200 (149,900) and is a direct rival to Tesla’s Model Y. The base $21K model is if you rent the battery. Even with the battery included, Onvo L60 prices still start at under $30,000 (206,900 yuan), with a CLTC range of up to 341 miles (555 km). That’s still less than the Model Y.
Tesla’s Model Y RWD starts at around $35,000 (249,900 yuan) with 344 mi (554 km) CLTC range in China.
NIO’s new Onvo brand drives higher Oct sales
NIO has often compared its new electric SUV to the Model Y, claiming it’s superior in many ways. The L60 has better consumption at 12.1 kWh/100km compared to the Model Y at 12.5 kWh/100km).
With a longer wheelbase (2,950 mm vs 2,890 mm), NIO’s electric SUV also provides slightly more interior space.
Despite the L60’s success so far, NIO believes its second Onvo model will be an even bigger hit. It could be a potential game-changer.
“If you think the L60 is good, then this new model is a much more competitive product,” NIO’s CEO William Li told CnEVPost after launching the L60. Onvo will launch a new EV every year. Following the L60, Onvo will launch a new mid-to-large-size electric SUV next year.
NIO’s leader claims the new model will be revolutionary. According to Li, it will offer even more surprises than the L60. Deliveries are planned to begin in Q3 2025.
| NIO Onvo L60 vs Tesla Model Y trims | Range (CLTC) |
Starting Price |
| NIO Onvo L60 (Battery rental) | 555 km (341 mi) 730 km (454 mi) |
149,900 yuan ($21,200) |
| NIO Onvo L60 (60 kWh) | 555 km (341 mi) | 206,900 yuan ($29,300) |
| NIO Onvo L60 (85 kWh) | 730 km (454 mi) | 235,900 yuan ($33,400) |
| NIO Onvo L60 (150 kWh) | +1,000 km (+621 mi) | TBD |
| Tesla Model Y RWD | 554 km (344 mi) | 249,900 yuan ($34,600) |
| Tesla Model Y AWD Long Range | 688 km (427 mi) | 290,900 yuan ($40,300) |
| Tesla Model Y AWD Performance | 615 km (382 mi) | 354,900 yuan ($49,100) |
Local reports suggest a six-or seven-seat electric SUV could hit the market even sooner. With rumors of a launch around Q1 2025, deliveries could happen as soon as May 2025.
According to sources close to the matter, the L60 is just a “stepping stone” with even more exciting EVs on the way. The source claimed the new six-seat option will start at around $42,100 (300,000 yuan).
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Velotric Ebikes are designed by some of the most brilliant minds in the business. And now, you have the opportunity to own one (or two!) of these high-performance, elegant, reliable rides. You won’t want to miss these fantastic early-bird Black Friday deals running from November 1-14, and, also get a sneak peek at special offers that start on November 8.
Read on to find the right model for you and learn how you can donate $5 to get up to $550 off a superb Velotric electric bike.
Velotric Black Friday deals – give to get back
If you donate $5 to either the Clean Air Task Force or the Solutions Project at checkout, you’ll unlock some fantastic discounts off Velotric e-bikes:
- Clean Air Task Force: Fighting air pollution for healthier communities
- The Solutions Project: Advocating for 100% renewable energy in frontline communities
Plus, Velotric is giving Electrek readers an exclusive discount: Enter the code Electrek20 at checkout to get an additional $20 OFF!
Velotric Discover 2 Ebike
The Velotric Discover 2, Velotric’s most comfortable e-bike, now has even more power, with a 750W high-performance motor and 75 Nm of torque. The 48V 706 Wh battery, providing up to 75 miles per charge, maximizes your range.
You can ride in comfort, as the frame design supports an upright posture; plus, it’s got a 200mm wide saddle and ergonomic grips, reducing long-ride strain. Enjoy a premium, versatile ride that turns every journey into a joyride.
Discover 2 – Save up to $200
Velotric Summit 1 Ebike
If you want both an everyday bike and a trekking bike, then this is the one for you. The customizable Velotric Summit 1 Ebike is a hybrid e-bike featuring a 750W motor with 90 Nm of torque that delivers exceptional power for both city streets and offroad terrain, and the intuitive throttle means you can access that power effortlessly. When you’re off-road, the 120mm travel suspension absorbs the impacts, resulting in a smoother ride. The 48V, 705.6Wh battery provides up to 70 miles of charge.
Plus, it features a vibrant multifunctional screen with three configurations and use the Velotric app to monitor mileage and access real-time bike data.
Summit 1 – Save up to $200
Velotric Nomad 1 Plus Ebike
The Nomad 1 Plus Ebike‘s 750W motor and 75 Nm torque allow you to conquer just about any terrain. The 691Wh battery keeps you on the move for up to 55 miles, an 80mm suspension fork smooths your ride, and powerful waterproof hydraulic brakes give you full control.
The Nomad 1 Plus features an adjustable stem, a brighter front light, and max speed adjustable range is 12-28 mph.
Nomad 1 Plus – save up to $550
Velotric Fold 1 Ebike
The Velotric Fold 1 Ebike becomes compact in just three quick moves, but don’t mistake it for simple. The high-performance 750W motor and generates 70 Nm torque, beating most of the competition for acceleration and climbing ability. The 608Wh battery will give you up to 55 miles of range, its step-through design is 20% lower than the competition, and when you’re done zipping around town or commuting, you can pop it into a car trunk or even a closet.
Plus, the Fold 1 is compatible with a wide range of cool accessories so you can customize it to meet your needs.
Fold 1 – Save up to $350
Velotric T1 ST Plus Ebike
The Velotric T1 ST Plus Ebike is an ultra-compact, 39-pound city-and-gravel bike that’s designed for riders with an active lifestyle. But don’t be fooled by its sleek look because it’s very well-equipped: The five pedal-assist-level T1 ST has a 70-mile range and three riding modes, and the peak 600W motor generates 40Nm of torque. It also comes with Apple Find My integration.
T1 ST Plus – Save up to $400
Velotric Discover 1 Plus Ebike
The Velotric Discover 1 Plus Ebike is a fantastic commuter bike that’s designed for comfort. (Plus, it’s kinda fun that it comes in five color choices.) If your commuting route is a bit more challenging, then the Discover 1 Plus might be the right fit for you. It features a rear light with braking high-beam, a 60 Lux front light, and double hydraulic disc brakes for extra safety. Plus, Velotric rigorously tests its frames 150,000 times under tough conditions for quality assurance.
This commuter e-bike that rides like a cruiser has a pedal assist range of 65 miles and throttle range of 58 miles on a 900W peak motor that generates 65 Nm of torque.
Discover 1 Plus – Save up to $550
Velotric Go 1 Ebike
Velotric’s Go 1 Ebike is small but mighty – it can carry up to 440 pounds comfortably. This ride has hydraulic suspension and a plush saddle, and it can be kitted out with a wide range of accessories, making it a versatile form of transport for everything from a fun day out to carting groceries across town.
It’s powered by Velotric’s proprietary Velopower H50 Drive System, which provides a range of up to 55 miles on pedal assist up to 25 mph (unlocked) with a peak 900W motor.
Go 1 – Save up to $400*
- Regular price: $1,399
$1,699 - Promotion: Get $100 off total saving $400
- Discounted price: $1,299
- Get 3 accessories & unlock 30% off on selected accessories
*Not included in the early-bird Black Friday deal, this deal runs from November 8-28 only
Velotric Packer 1 Ebike
From kids to cargo, the Velotric Packer 1 Ebike was designed to haul it all! The Packer 1 features Velotric’s proprietary Velopower H75 Drive System, which provides a range of up to 52 miles on pedal assist up to 25 mph (unlocked) with a 750W motor.
It can carry up to 440 pounds and has a 176-pound rear cargo carry capacity, plus hydraulic suspension with 80 mm of travel for a smooth ride. If you’re running a child to school every day, this would be a fantastic choice. Be sure to check out all the great accessories.
Packer 1 – Save up to $600
- Regular price: $1,699
$2,199 - Promotion: Get $100 off total saving $600
- Discounted price: $1,599
- Get 3 accessories & unlock 30% off on selected accessories
*Not included in the early-bird Black Friday deal, this deal runs from November 8-28 only
Don’t forget to use Velotric’s exclusive code for Electrek readers of Electrek20 at checkout to get an additional $20 OFF!
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