MINNEAPOLIS (October 26, 2011) - Polaris Industries Inc. (NYSE: PII) today announced a minority investment in Brammo, an Ashland, Ore.-based maker of electric vehicle technology and two-wheel electric vehicles. By investing in Brammo, Polaris obtains access to their proprietary electric vehicle powertrain technology, as well as exposure to the rapidly growing electric motorcycle market.
"We are excited to advance our electric vehicle capability by establishing Polaris as a business partner and part owner of Brammo, one of the most innovative and aggressive companies we have found in the electric motorcycle space," said Scott Wine, Polaris CEO. "Our companies share a passion for performance, and we look forward to exploiting the numerous opportunities created by pairing Brammo's industry-leading electric powertrain technology with Polaris' vast array of market-leading powersports products. This is a small, but important, investment for Polaris in an electric vehicle market that we feel is poised for significant growth."
Founded in 2002, Brammo has made its mark by developing electric vehicle technology tailored specifically for the motorcycle segment. Brammo currently offers the Enertia line of motorcycles, capable of speeds in excess of 60 mph and ranges up to 80 miles on a single charge. Brammo plans to expand their product line to include high-performance sport motorcycles capable of more than 100 miles on a single charge, as well as a full line of entry- to high-performance dirt and dual-sport motorcycles.
"We have always been impressed with Polaris' leadership within the powersports industry. Polaris is a company founded on innovation and quality and, as such, their decision to partner with Brammo is a resounding endorsement of our technology," said Brammo CEO and founder Craig Bramscher.
In addition to potentially utilizing Brammo technology in its own products, Polaris will collaborate with Brammo to grow their core business. Polaris and Brammo each bring distinct competencies and assets to this relationship, and share cultures centered on a passion for excellence and innovation. This combination of capabilities and culture will allow Polaris and Brammo to create and seize opportunities that neither could capture independently.
About Polaris
With annual 2010 sales of $1.99 billion, Polaris designs, engineers, manufactures and markets innovative, high quality off-road vehicles, including all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) for recreational and utility use, snowmobiles, motorcycles and on-road electric powered vehicles.
Polaris is a recognized leader in the powersports industry, among the global sales leaders for both snowmobiles and off-road vehicles. The Company has established a presence in the heavyweight cruiser and touring motorcycle market with Victory motorcycles and the acquisition of the Indian motorcycle brand.
Information about the complete line of Polaris products, apparel and vehicles accessories are available from authorized Polaris dealers or www.polarisindustries.com .
About Brammo
Brammo, Inc. is a leading electric vehicle technology company headquartered in North America. Brammo designs and develops electric vehicles including the Encite(tm), Enertia(tm), Empulse(tm) and Engage(tm) motorcycles. Brammo are the current TTXGP e-grand prix champions of North America. Brammo has vehicle distribution and marketing operations in North America, Europe and Asia. To learn more visit www.Brammo.com