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Electric buggies have revolutionized how we experience outdoor travel, offering an eco-friendly alternative to traditional off-road vehicles. They combine the thrill of adventure with the sustainability of electric power, making them perfect for both the environmentally conscious and the adventure-seekers.
About 1.6 million EVs were sold in the U.S. in 2023, representing a 60% increase from 2022. According to Market Watch, the U.S. accounted for 9.7% of all new EV registrations worldwide. These 15 electric buggies showcase the best in class, each designed to maximize enjoyment while minimizing environmental impact.
Citroen E-Mehari
The Citroen E-Mehari is an all-electric buggy that seamlessly blends fun with functionality. Its open-top design lets you feel the wind in your hair while cruising through town or tackling off-road adventures. This four-seater vehicle is ideal for families and groups of friends eager to explore together.
Originally launched by Citroen in 1968, the Mehari has evolved into the modern E-Mehari, powered by a 67bhp electric motor and boasting a top speed of 68 miles per hour. One of its standout features is its polymer body, which ensures lightweight agility and durability. With a range of up to 124 miles on a single charge, it’s perfect for longer excursions. Plus, thanks to its fast-charging capability, you can be back on the road in just eight hours.
Volkswagen e-Beetle
Taking inspiration from the iconic VW Beetle, the e-Beetle is a charming electric buggy that pays homage to its classic predecessor. It features a single-speed gearbox and an 81HP electric motor for smooth and silent acceleration, according to CNET. The e-Beetle has a top speed of 93 miles per hour and can travel up to 124 miles on one charge while accelerating from 0-50 mph in just over 8 seconds.
In addition to its eco-friendly features, the e-Beetle also offers modern amenities such as LED headlights and a touchscreen infotainment system. With its retro styling and sustainable design, this buggy is perfect for those looking to make a statement while reducing their carbon footprint.
Citroen My Ami Buggy
The Citroën My Ami Buggy is a delightful, compact electric vehicle perfect for urban adventures. With its open-top design and seating for two, it’s ideal for city dwellers eager to navigate narrow streets and tight parking spots. This charming buggy boasts tubular doors, a retractable canvas roof, rear wheels, 14-inch gold steel reinforced bumpers, and wheel arch extensions.
Powered by an 8bhp motor and a 5.5kWh battery, it can reach a top speed of 30 mph and offers an impressive range of 47 miles. This stylish little buggy is an excellent choice for zipping around town while minimizing your carbon footprint.
Volkswagen ID.Buggy
According to Top Gear, Volkswagen first unveiled the ID. Buggy concept, inspired by the classic Meyers Manx, at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show. This two-seater buggy features an open design with no fixed doors or roof, and the interior is designed to be weatherproof. It boasts off-road enhancements, including aluminum underbody protection and 18-inch all-terrain tires.
Powered by a rear-mounted electric motor delivering 202 bhp, it can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in just 7.2 seconds. The 62 kWh battery provides an impressive range of approximately 155 miles, with a top speed of 99 mph.
Skoda Element
Created in 2017 by a team of 21 students at Skoda’s Vocational School, this innovative vehicle features a sleek design with a removed roof and doors, an increased height of 60 millimeters, and enhanced underbody protection. It is equipped with 16-inch alloy wheels paired with rugged terrain tires.
Additional highlights include a powerful 400W sound system, a hidden smart TV in the front seats, and a convenient cool box in the trunk. Powered by an 80bhp electric motor, it can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in just 13 seconds and reach a top speed of 81 mph, all within a range of 100 miles.
Coastrunner EV
Dubbed the “ultimate beach cruiser” by its Dutch manufacturer, Savage Rivale, this vehicle boasts a powerful 66 bhp electric motor positioned at the rear axles, enabling a top speed of 75 mph. The 20 kWh battery offers an impressive range of 112 miles.
Currently retailing around $50,000, the price is projected to drop by half by 2025, according to Top Gear. Additionally, it features a fully washable interior, a spacious 60-liter fridge in the trunk, and brackets for water sports gear, making it a perfect companion for beach outings.
Meyers Manx 2.0
The Meyers Manx 2.0 is an updated version of the iconic buggy that first gained popularity in the 1960s. The current model boasts a lightweight fiberglass body reinforced with carbon fiber and is powered by a 202 bhp electric motor on each rear wheel.
Buyers can choose between the 20 kWh and 40 kWh batteries, which range 150 and 300 miles, respectively, on one charge. It has an impressive top speed of 120 mph. This modern iteration maintains its vintage charm while offering improved performance and range.
Renault Twizy
Priced at approximately $7,000, the Twizy stands out as one of the most affordable buggies. It features a 17 bhp electric motor with a top speed of 50 mph. Its 7 kW battery can be fully charged in just 3.5 hours using a standard domestic power outlet, showcasing its convenience.
The Twizy is an excellent choice for those seeking a cost-effective and eco-friendly mode of transportation.
Polaris RZR
Polaris RZR EV is an all-electric off-roading vehicle designed to provide a thrilling ride while being environmentally friendly. It is powered by two electric motors, each with 80 horsepower and four-wheel drive capabilities.
The vehicle’s top speed is 65 mph, and it can travel approximately 80 miles on one charge. With its rugged design and advanced technology, the Polaris RZR EV offers an exciting and sustainable off-roading experience.
Dacia Manifesto
This lightweight two-door buggy distinguishes itself with its airless tires and robust four-wheel drive, making it suitable for all terrains. Its versatile roof features adjustable roof bars to accommodate various types of luggage.
As reported by Auto Car, Dacia introduced the Manifesto at the 2022 Paris Motor Show as a super compact and fully open SUV. It allows passengers to connect with nature—no doors, windows, or windshields obstruct the experience.
Fiat 500
As an upgrade to its predecessor, the petrol 500, this model boasts a length increase of 61mm, a width increase of 56mm, and a height increase of 29mm. While it maintains the front-wheel drive characteristic of its predecessor, it now offers two battery options: a 24kWh and a 42kWh.
The 24kWh version features a 94-bhp motor with a range of 118 miles, while the 42kWh variant is equipped with a 117-bhp motor, providing an impressive range of 199 miles. If space isn’t a major concern, the 500 is an excellent choice, combining a stylish, recognizable design with a premium feel.
Mini Electric Beachcomber
The Mini Electric Beachcomber is an all-electric concept vehicle built on the Mini Cooper SE platform. It was first introduced in 2020 and boasted a range of 140-145 miles, making it suitable for long beach trips.
The interior is designed to be waterproof, featuring drainage holes in the floor pans and easily washable surfaces. It also features a retractable roof and doors for a seamless outdoor experience.
Ufor1000
The Ufor1000 is a distinctive and futuristic electric buggy tailored for urban transportation. It boasts four individual seats, each equipped with its own door for effortless access. Powered by an impressive 71hp motor, it can tow over 2,500 pounds.
This vehicle is ideal for city commutes, with a range of 150 miles and a top speed of 75 mph. Its compact size facilitates easy navigation through crowded streets, while its stylish design distinguishes it from conventional cars.
Honda E
The Honda E is a compact electric city car that debuted at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show. Its retro-inspired design, featuring round headlights and a minimalist interior, has garnered much attention.
It boasts an impressive range of approximately 137 miles, with features such as fast-charging capabilities and a modern infotainment system. The sleek and eco-friendly design of this vehicle makes it perfect for zipping around busy city streets in style.
Moke
Moke is a testimony of technological advancement in the last half century, compared to its predecessor, the Mini Moke. Electrons power it from a 44 bhp electric motor at its rear wheels. It boasts an acceleration of 0-34mph in 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 62 mph within a range of 89 miles.
The Moke is known for its open-top design, compact size, and off-road capabilities, which have made it a popular choice among beachgoers. It is also an eco-friendly alternative for those exploring off the beaten path.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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