While I’ve come across many instances of gas and electric STOVs replacing full-size pickup trucks, I’ve seen fewer stories about electric LSVs replacing gas UTVs but in the past few weeks I came across two. In both cases the electric vehicle offered cost advantages and a better set of features for the end use application.

The first is from Albany, GA where the local police department replaced a 12 year old gas powered Kawasaki Mule with a GEM for use in parking enforcement.  Learning from the local US Marine base experience and evaluation, the department estimates that they will save about $6,000 a year in gas, oil change and maintenance expense each year.  The GEM also has better features for parking enforcement including an enclosed cab, rear and side mirrors, warning lights, a fan for summer use and a heater for winter use. Learn more:  Albanyherald.com

In the second instance, River Falls Municipal Utilities in Wisconsin replaced a John Deere Gator with a Polaris NEV.  In this case, they tested the vehicle for several weeks by performing tasks around the wastewater treatment plant.  The utility also received a $5,009 grant from Wisconsin Electric Power.  Management sees the vehicle being used for both off-road and on-road uses such as driving downtown for supplies or town meetings.  A cab enclosure will be purchased in the future to enable year round use.  Learn more:  Riverfallsjournal.com