Polaris' Futuristic Electric Snowmobile: F1 Tech Revealed Ahead of Global Debut

Sssh, don't tell anyone.

Fresh from the success of DJOGDJA NEWS discovering Polars' soon-to-be-released fully electric RZR utility vehicle , we’ve got another thrilling—Dad Jokes, I’ve mastered them all!—patent revelation. This time, though, it’s focused entirely on that white powder. And just so you know, we’re not changing gears to EscobarApart At this point, not quite.

As the global shift towards electric vehicles continues, driven by consumer demand, government incentives, and stricter worldwide emission standards, Polaris has introduced their all-electric Ranger model. This move is expected to pave the way for an electrified version of another popular vehicle—the RZR. Now, with a recently discovered patent, it appears that Polaris may soon join the ranks of manufacturers embracing fully electric technology across their lineup. Ski-Doo and Taiga and introduce a fully electric snowmobile.

Sure thing, the quietness is heading to the snowmobile trails, which sounds better than using a UTV or motorcycle. Additionally, this sled incorporates F1 tech, adding an element of sheer madness to it all.

Image courtesy of: US Patent and Trademark Office
Image courtesy of: US Patent and Trademark Office
Image courtesy of: US Patent and Trademark Office
Image courtesy of: US Patent and Trademark Office

Firstly, let’s discuss the electric Polaris snowmobile. As outlined in a patent issued to Polaris Industries Inc., entitled “Electric Snowmobile,” it states that “a snowmobile can feature an electric power system. This setup might incorporate one or multiple electric motors for driving one or both continuous tracks. Additionally, this electric drive could consist of several battery packs. One or more of these battery units could form part of the snowmobile's structural framework, with at least one being positioned within the vehicle's tunnel area.”

So yeah, it's an electric Polaris snowmobile.

Image courtesy of: US Patent and Trademark Office

Given the illustrations provided, it seems intended to fit into Polaris' trail sled lineup Although I cannot verify if it’s a Switchback, a Voyager, an Indy, or another model, the batteries powering the sled seem to be located under the snowmobile’s seat and above the tunnel, with the engine positioned below the handlebars and the main frame. It's unclear how this setup handles heat dissipation, which is typically a significant challenge for many backcountry sleds equipped with compact radiators.

It is clear from the patent that, distinct from other electric vehicles, this snowmobile would utilize a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with a belt setup rather than a direct drive mechanism. This approach presents an intriguing concept for an electric vehicle, and I am quite interested in delving deeper into how these components integrate effectively.

Also interesting is the mention of a Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS) which is Formula 1 technology.

Image courtesy of: US Patent and Trademark Office

The patent explains, "Figure 34 shows the layout of the parts of a kinetic energy recovery system within the example snowmobile depicted in Figure 1." This Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS) first appeared in Formula 1 as part of the transition into hybrid technology. It enabled batteries to be charged so that racers could briefly boost power output when attempting overtakes. Essentially, this concept mirrors the functioning principle behind regenerative braking systems found in electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids, which recharge the battery to extend driving distance.

How this system functions, whether it would be utilized for range or power, remains to be observed.

When Polaris aims to drop this EV snowmobile is also yet to be seen, as the company recently took the unveiled its 2026 sleds just last week That implies we might not see this specific snowmobile until at least later this year, with early next year being the most likely timeframe. What’s your take on this? Are you prepared to tackle remote woodland paths without making a sound? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.

Let It Snow