Off-roading has exploded in the last decade and we will continue see it develop in the future. What can we look forward to in the future? With the development of new vehicles and new equipment, the passion of off-roading continues to become safer and the vehicles more capable. Plus, there is a new type of off-roader, the one who can take their vehicle directly from the showroom to the trail. But with greater participation, there are increased concerns for the environment. The future of off-roading in America is about new technology, new participants, and a continued preservation of the environment.
Improved technology in vehicles and equipment continues to enhance our off-roading experience. Jeep® brand vehicle improvements and new after-market products are continually introduced to make off-roading safer and to make products which are more durable and more capable. Because of yearly improvements in Jeep vehicles, this has created an entirely new type of off-roader. Before, owners had to spend thousands of dollars modifying their vehicles to fully enjoy the off-roading experience. Now, Jeep brand owners can take their Trail Rated® vehicle directly from the showroom floor and begin four-wheeling immediately. As a result, off-road enthusiasts are being created in huge numbers. Without a doubt, this new group will bring a greater demand for Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) parks and public places to off-road.
Another example of new Jeep brand products is the electric powered Jeep vehicle. In 2008, the Jeep brand introduced a concept off-road vehicle with a hybrid electric engine. This is a new notion for hard-core off-roaders who normally demand a lot of power and torque to negotiate the various obstacles. But electric power is perfectly suited for off-roaders. According to Doug Quigly, executive engineer for the Jeep brands environmentally responsible vehicles, the electric powered Jeep vehicle is a worthy idea. He indicates, “It’s perfect for rock crawling, hill climbing and hill descent.” In a normal internal combustion engine you have engine braking (which is when you slow down by lifting off the gas pedal), but “in an electric vehicle you do the same thing by putting power back in the battery the whole way down the hill.”
The environmental impact of off-roading is under constant scrutiny by the media and the general public. But through educational programs such as Leave No Trace, the off-roading communities’ attitude toward the environment has greatly improved. These programs show there can be a balance between protecting the environment and having fun on public lands. Down the proverbial road, these educational programs will continue to improve the public’s perception of off-roading, which will ultimately be welcomed by everyone.
One of the answers to the increased concerned with the environmental impact of off-roading on public lands has been the development of many new ORV parks. This increased demand for safe, but environmentally friendly places to off-road, will spawn even more of these ORV parks around the country. This trend has already begun in states such as Texas, Missouri, and Oklahoma.
So, what is the future of four-wheeling in North America? The main focus will be on the environment and continuing education for both vehicle owners and the public, showing both that there can be a balance between protecting our natural resources and allowing people to enjoy the public lands. In addition, technology, with new Jeep brand vehicle designs and after-market equipment, will continue to make our passion safer with even more capable vehicles. With these trends, it is a sure bet we will see a lot more people enjoying the trails around the country.