The HISUN Elite Story: NZ’s Next-Gen Electric UTV, Built by EMVC
Leading the Shift to Electric Transport in Aotearoa
Approximately five years ago, The Electric Motor Vehicle Company Ltd (EMVC) was formed to promote the use of electric vehicles (EVs) as a cleaner alternative to petrol and diesel in New Zealand’s light transport fleet. The initial focus was on electric, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid cars, supporting early adopters on their journey to zero-emission transport.
From Cars to E-Bikes: The Birth of Geobyke
With the rise in popularity of off-road cycling trails, EMVC quickly expanded into electric bikes (E-Bikes). To meet demand, the company launched its own E-Bike brand: Geobyke — now a trusted name for quality and value across NZ.
Tackling Emissions in the UTV Market
While growing its presence in the E-Bike market, EMVC also set out to address a high-emission segment: utility terrain vehicles (UTVs).
Every litre of petrol burned produces approximately 2.3 kg of CO₂, and a heavily used UTV can generate 8,000 kg or more of CO₂ per year.
Recognising the need for low-emission alternatives, EMVC began developing an electric UTV (E-UTV) solution. Benefits of switching to electric include:
- Zero tailpipe emissions
- Lower running costs
- Quiet operation
- Reliable torque and acceleration
- Reduced maintenance requirements
At the heart of these vehicles is a LiFePO₄ (lithium iron phosphate) battery, offering over 10 years of usable life with minimal servicing.
Partnering with Hisun Motors
To source the best platform, EMVC partnered with Hisun Motors, a well-established manufacturer of ATVs and UTVs based in China. Founded in 1988 and employing over 1,700 people, Hisun builds the majority of its components in-house and has a significant presence in Europe and the US (Texas).
EMVC secured exclusive distribution rights for electric Hisun UTVs in Southland, aligning with its vision of an all-electric fleet. Petrol models were phased out following the COVID-19 disruptions and shift in global supply strategies.
Local Assembly, Customization & Cost Reduction
EMVC now imports knockdown units of the Hisun E-UTV range directly into Bluff Port, where they’re assembled locally in the company’s Southland facility.
This approach:
- Reduces overall costs
- Allows vehicle customization for NZ conditions
- Enables on-site quality control and testing
The upgraded, NZ-assembled version of the vehicle is now marketed as the HISUN ELITE.
Battery Innovation: NZ-Made, Modular & Swappable
A standout feature of the HISUN ELITE is its custom-designed LiFePO₄ modular battery, assembled in Invercargill. Built using internationally sourced premium cells and battery management systems, this modular pack offers:
- Quick slide-in/out replacement
- Simplified maintenance and fault diagnosis
- Expandable capacity for longer range
- Potential for battery swapping stations
- Cross-application use for solar or wind energy storage
- Leasing options to reduce capital cost for clients
This design also sidesteps the logistical and compliance challenges of shipping batteries internationally.
Nationwide Support Network & Delivery
To support its growing customer base, EMVC is building a nationwide network of service agents. Once a vehicle is assembled and tested, it’s:
- Shipped via curtain-sider truck
- Delivered to the local service agent
- Final-checked and delivered with training and support
This system ensures that every customer gets not just a cutting-edge electric UTV, but also the service and education to use it effectively.
⚡ Why Choose the HISUN Elite by EMVC?
- ✅ Zero-emission electric UTVs
- ✅ Locally assembled for NZ conditions
- ✅ Modular battery system built in Invercargill
- ✅ Customizable design and delivery
- ✅ Strong nationwide service support
Want to learn more about our HISUN Elite E-UTVs or modular battery systems?
📞 Contact us today to discuss your electric transport needs.