The Golf Cart Showdown

STREET-LEGAL CART SHOWDOWN · SLCS · TAMPA BAY, FLORIDA · How we make money — dealers pay for introductions; no brand pays for rank.

GEM e4

The GEM e4 is the four-seat, forward-facing passenger model that GEM (Global Electric Motorcars, a Waev Inc. brand) calls its most popular and versatile. NHTSA's vPIC registry lists GEM as a Low-Speed Vehicle maker, so it is factory-LSV. A lithium-ion pack feeds a 6.5 kW (8.7 hp) AC-induction motor for a 25 mph top speed and a rated range of up to 117 miles. It comes standard with three-point seat belts, an automotive-glass windshield, a back-up camera, and LED lighting with one-touch turn signals; a roof-mounted solar panel is optional and GEM says it can extend range by up to 40%. GEM sells through dealers and does not publish an MSRP. Street-legal: yes (LSV certified).

GEM e4 — the four-seat GEM street-legal low-speed vehicle in Arctic Frost, front three-quarter studio product photo
Photo: GEM (Waev Inc.)
Verified · sourced specs · NHTSA vPIC · no paid rank
Factory LSV — verified

Factory-certified Low-Speed Vehicle (FMVSS 500)

Factory-certified LSV — NHTSA vPIC lists make GEM (Global Electric Motorcars, a Waev Inc. brand; MakeId 595) with vehicle type Low Speed Vehicle. GEM's own pages call it 'federally classified as a low-speed vehicle (LSV),' street-legal on roads posted up to 35 mph, and it reaches 25 mph. GEM does not cite the FMVSS 500 standard number by name.

Verified against the NHTSA vPIC registry · 08/03/2026 · How we verify LSV status →

Your pick if

you want a proven factory-LSV in the premium class without paying up for the belt.

Verified specification sheet

The facts, with receipts

MODEL FILE · GEM-E4
LAST VERIFIED 08/03/2026
Top speed25 mph1
Range (high)117 mi1
Battery typelithium1
Seats41
Length135 in1
Width55.5 in1
Height73 in1
Curb weight1,135 lb1
Motor power6.5 kW1
Motor power (hp)8.7 hp1
Warranty4 yr1
Battery warranty7 yr1
LSV certified (street-legal capable)Yes2
1 SOURCE: gemcar.com · VERIFIED 08/03/20262 SOURCE: vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov · VERIFIED 08/03/2026

◆ Value scorecard

Power-to-weight
5.7 W/lb
motor watts ÷ weight
Warranty
4 / 7 yr
vehicle / battery

Our figures, from verified specs + MSRP — lower cost-per-seat and cost-per-mile is better; higher power-to-weight means more pep and hill-climb. Range uses the normalized estimate.

Read from the verified specs

Where it wins, where it gives

Strengths

  • Factory-certified LSV — VIN'd, titleable, and insurable with no dealer conversion.
  • 117-mile max range covers most daily driving.

Trade-offs

  • No material knock on the verified specs — the call comes down to fit and price.

Street-legal status

Factory street-legal (LSV) — no kit needed

Factory-certified LSV — NHTSA vPIC lists make GEM (Global Electric Motorcars, a Waev Inc. brand; MakeId 595) with vehicle type Low Speed Vehicle. GEM's own pages call it 'federally classified as a low-speed vehicle (LSV),' street-legal on roads posted up to 35 mph, and it reaches 25 mph. GEM does not cite the FMVSS 500 standard number by name. The DOT equipment, VIN, and 25 mph rating come from the factory, so you can title and register it without any aftermarket conversion.

Frequently asked

Is the GEM e4 street legal?
Yes. The GEM e4 is a factory-certified Low-Speed Vehicle (LSV), confirmed against the NHTSA manufacturer registry. It carries a VIN and can be titled, registered, and insured for roads posted 35 mph or under.
How fast does the GEM e4 go?
25 mph — the top of the federal LSV range.
How far does the GEM e4 go on a charge?
Up to 117 miles per charge, per the manufacturer. Real-world range depends on load, terrain, speed, and battery age.
How many people does the GEM e4 seat?
The GEM e4 seats 4.

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