Play it safe. Utility vehicles don’t usually have individual keys: the same key will operate all cars of the same model – and sometimes all models by the same manufacturer. If you have concerns about theft or vandalism, you can upgrade to individual keys – or be prepared to lock your vehicles in a garage or chain them together.

Plan for the future. If you’re buying vehicles for a fleet, choose a dealer with care. You’ll be depending on that dealer for ongoing service, as well as for future sales, so make sure the dealer is someone you can work with.

Stay charged. Electric vehicles should always have their batteries charged. Leaving a lead-acid battery ‘empty’ will slowly damage it, eventually ruining it altogether. A charged battery is also more resistant to freezing.

Tune it up. With proper maintenance, these vehicles can easily last 10 years or more. Take the time to perform regular maintenance and seasonal changes and you’ll be rewarded with better performance and durability.

Think big. They may be small, but utility vehicles are built tough. In industrial and commercial settings, they can take on many jobs traditional handled by larger pieces of material handling equipment. Keep an open mind and you may discover that utility vehicles are an economical way to handle many transportation duties.