GEM eX
Following the debut of its compact low-speed ambulance earlier this year, California-based GEM has unveiled a new addition to its lineup — the GEM eX, an electric utility vehicle built to move gear around town and tackle rougher job sites beyond the pavement.
For roughly 25 years, General Electric Motorcars (GEM) has specialized in low-speed neighborhood vehicles. Over that time, its lineup has evolved through multiple designs and owners — including stints under DaimlerChrysler and Polaris — before settling under Waev Inc., its current parent company.
The new GEM eX marks the brand’s second all-electric utility model, following the long-running eL XD, which has been on the market for nearly two decades.
Waev CEO Keith Simon describes the eX as filling a long-standing gap in the market:
“UTVs are everywhere, but most are either cart-based or designed for recreation,” said Waev CEO, Keith Simon. “Until now, there has not been a purpose-built, street-legal vehicle that is all-terrain capable, commercial-grade and affordable. The GEM eX changes that, delivering reliable electric power and all-weather comfort in a work-ready platform.”
Like its predecessor, the eX is a low-speed vehicle with a top speed of 25 mph (40 km/h), ideal for short-distance work around campuses, job sites, or municipal facilities. However, it’s been engineered to handle tougher terrain as well — offering 9.5 inches (24 cm) of ground clearance, optional all-terrain tires, and a trailing-arm rear suspension with 6.5 inches of travel and a 50-degree approach angle.
The two-seater’s rear-wheel-drive setup includes an automatic limited-slip differential for improved traction, along with single-pedal driving for downhill control and a hill-hold function for uphill starts. Safety comes standard with features like a reversing camera and alarm, pedestrian noise emitter, roof crush protection, orange three-point seatbelts, and automotive-grade front and rear glass.
Power comes from a 6.5-kW (48-V) electric motor paired with batteries that deliver up to 85 miles (122 km) of range per charge, or up to 125 miles (201 km) with the optional 16-kWh pack that supports fast charging.
The eX measures 118 inches (300 cm) long, 55.5 inches (141 cm) wide, and 73 inches (185 cm) tall, with an 86-inch (218 cm) wheelbase and a 167-inch (424 cm) turning radius. Hydraulic disc brakes handle stopping duties on all four wheels.
The rear composite bed measures 40 x 49 x 12 inches (102 x 124 x 30 cm) and can carry up to 1,250 lb (567 kg) of cargo, with gas-assisted or optional electric lift and L-track tie-down rails. Towing capacity matches the payload at 1,250 lb (567 kg), thanks to a 2-inch receiver hitch.
According to Waev’s Director of Engineering, Sven Etzelsberger, the GEM eX has been extensively field-tested “in every condition imaginable — from the deserts of Arizona to the winters of Minnesota.” The company collaborated with demanding clients such as U.S. military bases, city governments, universities, and global automakers to fine-tune the vehicle’s design and durability.
