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History of Polaris® Powersports Vehicles
Polaris is an extremely well-known and respected powersports manufacturer. But do you know how this iconic company came to be? Fortunately for you, we’ve compiled the following history of Polaris® powersports vehicles so you can see how this brand got its start.
Founded by Outdoorsmen
Near the end of World War II in 1945, the production of metal was at a high. At the time, a small company, Hetteen Hoist & Derrick, was making one of a kind machines for farmers. However, this work was seasonal and the men behind the company were outdoorsy. They wanted an easier way to cover vast distances in snow so they could hunt and fish. This led them to create their first functional snowmobile. Although this was a personal project for the men, interest in their machines grew greatly throughout the region.
Finding Their Place
By 1960, the company had been renamed Polaris. Polaris powersport vehicles quickly grew in popularity and the brand started to make a name for itself in the industry. Their products started out as machines built for transportation, but their offerings soon included recreational sport models. As the company and industry boomed, the management team at Polaris realized they needed some guidance. Polaris sold to Textron. Growth continued on into the 1970s until a recession hit. This recession hit the entire industry hard. At the end of the decade, only three manufacturers remained.
Unmatched Innovation
Because of a looming company liquidation, Textron was looking for a way out. The president of Polaris at the time led a buyout of Polaris and quit Textron. With only 100 workers, Polaris began working on creating new products. Innovation was at the forefront of every model. In 1984, the company entered the ATV market and quickly became a major player in the industry. A few years later in 1990, they expanded into a new industry with the launch of their personal watercraft line.
The company has been able to adapt to changing times while still staying true to its customers. Every vehicle is crafted with durability, safety, and customer needs in mind. It’s no wonder Polaris has become an industry leader and a customer favorite!
Ready to check out Polaris powersports vehicles for sale? Check out the selection at Country Roads Powersports and Marine. Our dealership is based in Greeneville, Kentucky, and we also serve those in Madisonville, Owensboro, and Bowling Green.