SIOUX FALLS, SD -The City of Sioux Falls has added a Chrysler GEM e2 electric car to its water reclamation department, which will be used to move staff around the unit's 60-acre campus in northwest Sioux Falls for maintenance and operational needs, according to the Argus Leader.

On a full charge, the vehicle can travel up to 30 miles and reach a top speed of 25 mph, Aimee House Ladonski, the city's sustainability coordinator, told Argus. The GEM could save Sioux Falls taxpayers $4,700 in its first year and $14,000 during the life of the vehicle. The city should save about 380 gallons of diesel fuel a year and reduce carbon dioxide emissions at the same time, reported Argus.

"We're always looking at ways to streamline, and Water Reclamation has been a leader in pushing for ways to not only to save money, but to be environmentally friendly," Ladonski said. "I think in the next few years, you'll see more of these vehicles come online around the city. It's all about sustainability - and saving money."

"Not only is investing in an electric utility vehicle the right thing to do for the environment, but ultimately it's going to save us money and improve our efficiency," Mayor Dave Munson told Argus.