AUBURN HILLS, MI – Clean and green transportation gets a new look and feel as Global Electric Motorcars (GEM), a Chrysler LLC company, introduces the next generation of clean, gas-free, and emission-free, battery electric vehicles. The vehicle's groundbreaking design, with its pod-like shape and sleek lines, reflects the environmentally-friendly nature that has been the hallmark of GEM since its founding 10 years ago.

The GEM Peapod is enhanced with the newly-designed center console that will offer iPod integration, as well as hands-free operation of the customer's iPhone. Other innovations include ergonomic, supportive, mesh seating, which enables air circulation for comfort and use of eco-friendly recycled and recyclable materials.

"We have evolved the GEM design language to better reflect its eco-friendly performance and its upbeat, positive image," said Peter Arnell, Chrysler LLC's chief innovation officer, who led the design process and engineering process. "These vehicles use no gasoline and emit no pollutants."

GEM will also get a new name — GreenEcoMobility, signifying the company's goal to redefine environmentally-friendly vehicles.

Chrysler showed the styling model for the production 2009 GEM at the company's headquarters Sept. 23. The re-designed GEM is scheduled for production in 2009.

In addition to the 2009 GEM Peapod neighborhood electric vehicle, GEM has plans to market a new light-duty, battery electric commercial truck, and a larger city electric vehicle, with more range and performance. These vehicles are scheduled for production within the next year.

Today's GEM is the nation's No. 1 zero-emission electric vehicle, with 38,000 produced and in use, according to the company. GEM vehicles are used in settings such as city centers, planned communities, military bases, college campuses, corporate and commercial centers, and city, state, and national parks.

GEM cars are available in six models: two-, four-, and six-passenger cars and three utility vehicles. GEM neighborhood electric vehicles have a top speed of 25 miles per hour, a range of up to 30 miles per charge — battery charge is extended through use of regenerative braking — and are street legal in more than 40 states. The vehicles can be recharged anytime, anywhere with a standard 110-volt outlet. Recharge time is approximately six to eight hours.