Polaris GEM’s 2013 models launched
Vehicles equipped with new standard features and customization options
On the tail of its one-year anniversary of acquiring GEM vehicles, Polaris Industries is introducing its model year 2013 Polaris GEM vehicles. The compact electric vehicles come with new and improved features and options to provide businesses a best-in-class solution for any transport or light-utility need, according to company officials.
The new model year rollout also includes a new creative platform and an updated look to the brand’s website, GEMcar.com.
Since the compact electric vehicle line was acquired by Polaris in June 2011, the company has spent significant resources to improve the vehicles’ performance and increase market visibility through the Polaris nationwide dealer network.
“It’s been a great first year of having GEM vehicles as part of the Polaris stable,” said Greg Thompson, small vehicles marketing manager at Polaris Industries. “We’ve nearly doubled the number of dealers carrying GEM vehicles and have seen a 70 percent increase of sales orders from these dealers since the acquisition. We are confident the model year improvements and new creative platform will continue the brand’s growth with Polaris dealers and their commercial customers.”
New standard features on all 2013 GEM e2, e4, e6, eS, eL and eL XD models include high-low beam headlamps for improved visibility while driving, and a day-night mirror that offers the ability to reduce reflective glare. Also included are improved front brakes, suspension technology borrowed from Polaris’ leading powersports products, improved steering components for greater control and enhanced foot pedals for easier operation and better ergonomics.
To coincide with the 2013 models, GEM developed a new creative platform which includes a new logo treatment and a redesigned consumer website. Platform messaging focuses on the electric cars being backed by 60 years of Polaris quality and proven performance, with print and online advertisements tailored to specific vertical markets to demonstrate how GEM can help complete essential commercial tasks.
Classified as low-speed vehicles, or neighborhood electric vehicles, GEM cars reach a top speed of 25 mph, are street legal and can be driven on most city streets with posted speed limits of 35 mph or less. With zero emissions, the vehicles can be driven both indoors and outdoors and have starting MSRPs of $7,829 to $13,459.
With customization options and the ability to move both people and cargo, Polaris GEM vehicles are meant for use by cities, municipalities and government offices, college and business campuses, hotels and resorts, athletic and recreation venues, or for neighborhood commuting.
For 2013 models, customers now have the option to customize select GEM utility models with a factory-installed MAX BOX with cargo doors and a dual tool chest. Additionally, the vehicles have updated color selections for vehicle bodies, updated package contents and charging cordsets available for multiple countries. In 2013, new hard doors will also be introduced that feature improved sealing and locks.
The 2013 GEM models are available now to order through authorized Polaris dealers. All GEM vehicles come with a two-year limited warranty and roadside assistance.
Powersports GEM dealers
Some powersports dealers are getting into the electric car business by taking on the GEM brand. Some of them include:
Bellamy’s Outdoor Sports, Crawfordville, Fla.
Central Maine Powersports, Lewiston, Maine
Champion Powersports, Athens, Ala.
Got Gear Motorsports, Ridgeland, Miss.
Kurt’s Polaris, Missoula, Mont.
Mies Outland, Watkins, Minn.
Show Low Motorsports, Show Low, Ariz.
