In the world of off-roading, where power and grit have always ruled, a new player is changing the game. Upfit UTV, a Fox Factory subsidiary known for building rugged, custom vehicles, has teamed up with OMI, a leader in electric powertrain engineering, to bring something fresh to the trails. Their creation, the OMI Fusion-Drive hybrid system, is set to debut on the Polaris Ranger 1500 platform in early 2026, and it’s already generating buzz for its blend of performance, versatility, and eco-conscious design.
The Fusion-Drive system isn’t just another upgrade—it’s a complete rethink of what a utility terrain vehicle (UTV) can do. By combining the raw power of traditional combustion engines with the instant torque and quiet operation of electric motors, this hybrid setup delivers a driving experience that’s both thrilling and practical. Whether you’re hauling gear across a farm, navigating rocky backcountry trails, or working in sensitive environments where noise and emissions matter, the Fusion-Drive system promises to handle it all with ease.
What makes this technology stand out is its ability to balance power with responsibility. Off-road vehicles have long been criticized for their environmental impact, especially in fragile natural areas. The Fusion-Drive tackles this head-on by offering an electric mode that cuts emissions and reduces noise, allowing drivers to tread lightly without sacrificing the muscle needed for tough jobs. “Fusion-Drive allows us to meet these demands without sacrificing performance,” said Justin Smith, CEO of Upfit UTV. “This innovation represents an exciting leap forward, not just for our brand but for the entire faec off-road community.”
At the heart of the system is the OMI NEXUS UI, a user-friendly interface that puts control in the driver’s hands. This isn’t your average dashboard display. The NEXUS UI lets users switch seamlessly between three modes—Electric, Hybrid, and Combustion—depending on the terrain or task. Need stealth for a quiet ride through the woods? Flip to Electric mode. Tackling a steep climb or towing heavy loads? Hybrid or Combustion modes bring the extra grunt. The interface is designed to be intuitive, so you don’t need to be a tech wizard to make it work. It’s all about giving drivers the tools to adapt on the fly, no matter where the trail leads.
One of the standout features of the NEXUS UI is its ability to integrate third-party devices without hassle. Unlike other UTV systems that require specialized know-how to add accessories, this interface simplifies the process. Want to sync up a new tool or gadget? The NEXUS UI makes it as easy as plugging in a smartphone. This level of customization opens up endless possibilities for tailoring the vehicle to specific needs, whether you’re outfitting it for work, play, or something in between. “With the OMI NEXUS UI, we empower everyday drivers with powerful, user-friendly customization tools that require no advanced technical expertise,” Smith added. “It’s a true game changer for the off-road world.”
The Polaris Ranger 1500, the first vehicle to roll out with the Fusion-Drive system, is built for heavy-duty tasks. Available in both diesel and gasoline options, it’s designed to tackle the demands of agriculture, construction, and even defense applications where reliability and stealth are critical. Set to hit the market in the first quarter of 2026, the Ranger 1500 is poised to be the flagship for this new technology, showing off what’s possible when power and innovation come together.
The Fusion-Drive system isn’t just about performance—it’s also about efficiency. Its scalable design means it can be installed without major changes to a vehicle’s chassis, making it easier for manufacturers and upfitters to adopt. OMI’s pre-integration work cuts down on cost, weight, and space, which translates to faster production times and more options for buyers. Instead of waiting years for a new model, companies can roll out Fusion-Drive-equipped vehicles in months, giving drivers access to cutting-edge tech sooner.
This partnership between Upfit UTV and OMI is a match made in off-road heaven. Upfit UTV brings its reputation for crafting high-quality, custom vehicles that can handle anything you throw at them. OMI, with three decades of expertise in automotive electromechanical innovation, adds the technical muscle to make the Fusion-Drive system a reality. Together, they’re not just building vehicles—they’re shaping the future of off-road mobility. “Upfit UTV is an ideal partner for OMI,” said Nicholas White, CEO and founder of OMI. “Together, we can quickly scale high-performance vehicles that meet the unique needs of off-highway fleets.”
The Fusion-Drive system also opens the door to new possibilities for off-road vehicles. Luis Garelli, OMI’s CTO, sees it as a stepping stone to even more advanced technologies, like range-extender electric vehicles (REEVs) and autonomous systems. For now, though, the focus is on delivering a hybrid system that performs in the real world. Whether you’re crawling over rocks, hauling equipment, or slipping quietly through a forest, the Fusion-Drive system is designed to make every trip better.
For those who live for the open trail, the launch of the Fusion-Drive-equipped Polaris Ranger 1500 in 2026 is something to watch. It’s not just about getting from point A to point B—it’s about doing it with power, control, and a nod to the environment. Upfit UTV and OMI are betting that this hybrid system will set a new standard for what off-road vehicles can do, and they’re backing it up with a platform that’s as tough as it is innovative.
