The e-Tuatara: NZ Farmers Can Slash Fuel Costs with This All-Electric Farm UTV

All Farmers Can Take Control of Their On-Farm Fuel Costs

Thanks to the arrival of the e-Tuatara electric farm utility vehicle, New Zealand farmers now have the tools to take real control over their fuel use, costs, and carbon footprint.

Powered by Proven LiFePO₄ Battery Technology

The e-Tuatara is fitted with the same LiFePO₄ (Lithium Iron Phosphate) batteries used in electric vehicles worldwide. With the ability to fit one or two battery packs, it offers a real-world on-farm range of up to 160 km — and even more when regularly topped up during:

• Smoko breaks
• Lunchtime
• During milking
• Overnight charging

Charging at 15 amps is quick and easy, making it practical for everyday farm use.

Built for Tough NZ Terrain

The e-Tuatara features a powerful, water-cooled 15kW electric motor that can tackle slopes of up to 35 degrees and navigate swampy ground with ease.

With large tyres, wide footprint, and advanced drive options — including 2WD, 4WD, and all-wheel diff lock — the e-Tuatara is ready for the harshest Southland and rural NZ conditions.

Comfortable, Quiet, and Capable

“It’s quiet, with a spacious, enclosed cab that seats three adults in comfort, no matter the weather,” says Alex de Boer, Managing Director of The Electric Motor Vehicle Company.

“It can replace ATVs, UTVs, even farm utes — and do some of the jobs normally reserved for a tractor. With its three configurable decks, it’s built to multitask around the farm.”

The Bigger Picture: Fuel Costs and Energy Independence

“New Zealand is now fully dependent on imported fuel,” says Mr. de Boer. “With no new oil refineries being built worldwide, and our own Marsden Point closing, we’re at the mercy of international supply chains.”

“I expect petrol prices to reach $4.00 per litre — if not more. The era of cheap fuel is over.”

This makes renewable energy storage essential. The e-Tuatara offers that — its batteries can store power from solar or wind, and even power remote huts and off-grid farm operations.

Next-Level Energy Solutions for Rural NZ

EMVC is also developing a solar roof charging system for the Tuatara — allowing it to generate and use its own power while operating.

“Farmers will finally have energy independence, using only the sun and wind — both free and in endless supply,” adds Mr. de Boer.

Reduce Emissions and Maintenance – Without Extra Cost

Each traditional UTV on a farm generates up to 10 tonnes of CO₂ per year, plus harmful particulates. The e-Tuatara slashes these emissions while requiring far less maintenance.

“It’s a win-win,” says Mr. de Boer. “Fuel savings will easily cover the cost of financing the vehicle. There’s no upfront capital required, and the long-term savings are massive.”

Finance Options Available

EMVC offers flexible finance plans — 5-year terms that allow farmers to pay off the e-Tuatara through fuel savings.

Ready to reduce your fuel bills and future-proof your farm? The e-Tuatara is available now.