Low-Speed Vehicles
Low-speed vehicles (LSVs) are required to follow federal safety standards, are street legal on most U.S. roads 35 mph or less, and travel at a max speed of 25 mph.
What is a Low-Speed Vehicle?
A low-speed vehicle (LSV) is a street-legal, four-wheeled vehicle with a top speed of 25 mph and a gross vehicle weight rating of less than 3,000 lbs. Most U.S. states allow LSVs to drive on roads marked 35 mph or less. Low-speed vehicles are typically electric and must follow federal performance and safety standards. Explore where GEM can take you with GEM Go, our low-speed road web app.
What are Low-Speed Vehicle Requirements?
Low-speed vehicles must adhere to the performance and safety standards set by the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic and Safety Association) which states that LSVs must not exceed 25 mph (40 km/h) and are required to have:
- Headlamps (headlights)
- Front and rear turn signal lights
- Tail lights
- Brake lights (stop lamps)
- Red reflex reflectors
- Appropriate mirrors—an exterior mirror on the driver’s side and an exterior mirror on the passenger’s side or an interior mirror
- A parking brake
- A conforming windshield
- Type 1 or 2 seat belt assembly
- An alert sound (horn)
- A backup camera
- A VIN (vehicle identification number)
GEMs exceed NHTSA LSV safety standards with an Occupant Protection System (OPS) that is roof crush certified.
Where Can You Drive Low-Speed Vehicles?
With a maximum speed of 25 mph, LSVs are street legal and can generally be driven on any U.S. roadway posted 35 mph or slower.
Their compact footprint takes up less space on crowded roadways and curbs, and does not exceed 3,000 lbs. Spacious passenger cabs with two-, four- or six-seat models make them a practical alternative to traditional automobiles.
On congested, high-traffic streets, LSVs can travel across town just as quickly as a standard vehicle. Nearly 50% of all vehicle trips are less than 3 miles, and that percentage is even higher within cities.
With everything they offer, LSVs balance the trade-offs of alternative transportation. They are ideal for city and community environments because they are accessible, flexible and efficient. But most importantly, their low speeds make them safer—for vulnerable road users and pedestrians alike.
What is the Difference Between an LSV and a Golf Cart?
LSV Vehicle
Primary Purpose
For on-street driving
For golf course driving
Forward-Facing Passengers
2-6 depending on model
2-4
Comfort Features
Smooth driving experience, spacious interior, forward-facing high-back seats, optional doors and customization options
Bench seats with customization options
Street legal in most U.S. states, must be operated by licensed driver
Not street-legal, driver’s license not required
Mandatory three-point safety belt, headlights, tail lights, reflectors, turn signals, speedometer, mirror, horn, fenders, windshield
Find Your GEM Low-Speed Electric Vehicle
e2
Our most nimble EV and smallest footprint model with up to 97 miles of range.
Seats 1-2 | Starting at $15,240 US MSRP
e4
Our most popular and versatile EV with up to 91 miles of range.
Seats 1-4 | Starting at $17,490 US MSRP
e6
The ultimate EV shuttle is a great alternative to SUVs or vans with up to 67 miles of range.
Seats 1-6 | Starting at $21,240 US MSRP
eL XD
Rival any truck or cargo van with up to 1,400 lbs of payload, 1,250 lbs of towing, zero emissions and up to 67 miles of range.
Seats 1-2 | Starting at $18,740 US MSRP