Same Trail, New Tech, Real Risks: The Future of Off-Roading and Fire Safety
By Del Albright, Sustainable Motorized Recreation Advocate
Off-roading is evolving—fast. The once rumbling trails of carbureted engines and high-octane exhaust are now joined by the silent hum of electric side-by-sides, e-bikes, EVs, and hybrid Jeeps. From app-powered navigation systems to charging stations at trailheads, technology is rewriting the OHV experience in real-time.
But along with these innovations come new challenges—like lithium battery fires in the backcountry, where water is scarce and help is miles away.
This is not a drill. It’s our next frontier.
⚙️ The Rise of Trail Tech
In just a few years, we’ve seen major changes:
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Electric UTVs and Side-by-Sides with impressive torque.
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E-bikes used by hunters, campers, and overlanders.
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Hybrid Jeeps and electric pickups hitting the dirt.
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Apps and GPS systems enhancing trail exploration.
This tech makes outdoor travel more accessible—and often more environmentally friendly. But it also brings new questions about land use, trail rules, and safety.
⚡ EV Expansion: Good for Access, Tough on Policy
Upsides:
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Quieter machines reduce wildlife disturbance.
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Lower emissions help in protected zones.
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Fewer moving parts mean less maintenance.
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Opens the door for younger, older, and differently abled riders.
Challenges:
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Limited range and recharge options.
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Confusion about what’s legal where.
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Land managers playing catch-up on regulations.
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Ongoing fire dangers from lithium-ion batteries.
The Fire Threat You Didn’t See Coming
In June 2025, the CPSC issued a recall on FENGQS e-bikes sold on Amazon due to battery fires. And they’re not alone.
These fires aren’t just urban problems—they’re hitting the forest, the desert, and our campgrounds.
Here’s why it’s serious:
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Thermal runaway spreads fire from battery cell to cell.
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Heat can exceed 1,000 °F, igniting brush or fuel nearby.
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Toxins in the smoke can harm lungs—fast.
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Fires can reignite hours later if not cooled thoroughly.
4 Things Every Rider Should Do Now
1. Buy Certified Gear
Look for UL 2849 certification—it means the battery, motor, and charger were tested together for safety.
2. Charge Smart
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Never charge inside your RV or tent.
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Always supervise charging.
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Use the factory charger—no substitutes.
3. Carry the Right Fire Extinguisher
Bring an ABC dry-chem extinguisher. Water isn’t enough.
4. Know the Signs of Battery Failure
If you hear hissing, see swelling, smell chemicals, or hear popping—back off and stay back.
Stewardship Still Comes First
Whether you’re riding electric or gas, our trail responsibilities don’t change:
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Stay on legal trails.
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Teach newcomers.
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Help shape smart policy.
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Be a steward—of the land and the sport.
⚡ Final Charge: Same Trail. New Tech. Shared Responsibility.
Whether you ride a whisper-quiet e-bike, a gas-powered Jeep, or an EV side-by-side, we’re all in this together. The tools may change, but the mission doesn’t.
We’ve got to adapt, educate, and stay ready—because the trails we love depend on it.
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