The modern-day workhorse now seen on most cattle ranches is the handy utility task vehicle (UTV), a small 2-person or 6 person four-wheel drive off-road vehicle, commonly known as a “side by side.”
UTV names like Gator, Ranger, Mule, Viking and others have become the vehicle ranch workers depend on most to perform daily chores, check fence, spray weeds, and haul feed, tools, parts, tack and, often, people, according to Drovers CattleNetwork.
With the style of a small road vehicle, UTVs have a wide range of efficiency, safety and comfort features. Plus, UTV’s hardiness allows access to rougher country than a pickup, through mud, rain and hills.
The widespread demand for the UTV has manufacturers continually enhancing features, add-ons and improving safety. Most factory models are starting to come standard with ROP (roll-over protection) and seatbelts.