LOS ANGELES – In an effort to spread some much-needed eco-cheer this holiday season, electric auto manufacturer Global Electric Motorcars (GEM) and The West Valley Boys & Girls Club implemented the Operation Green Toy 'Drive,' including a fun GEM-decorating experience, an education about environmental awareness, and presents.  

On December 23, "Santa Claus" delivered toys to children of the Boys & Girls Club of the West Valley in a zero-emission mode of transport, delivering presents with a red and white decorated GEM electric vehicle.

Driving the equivalent of 150 miles per gallon, GEM 100-percent battery-electric neighborhood electric vehicles travel at two cents per mile. GEM electric vehicles also produce zero tailpipe emissions and leave almost no carbon footprint, an ideal transportation alternative to short trip-driving, according to the company.

Toys were provided by the kindness of strangers through a toy drive facilitated by Barnett Ellman. The red GEM e4 car on loan to Santa was delivered by Bill Fenton of Response Vehicle Solutions, a GEM dealer, located in North Hollywood.

"We so appreciate the support of GEM – and organizations like them – because without that kind of support, many of these children would not get any holiday presents," said Jan Sobel, President/CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of the West Valley.