Polaris History
The origin of Polaris can be traced back to brothers Edgar and Allan Hetteen, and their close friend David Johnson. In 1945 in Roseau, Minnesota, the trio started the forerunner of Polaris – Hetteen Hoist & Derrick. During World War II, metal was scarce, and with their skills at repairing farm machinery, they quickly earned loyal customers.
Polaris as we know it today started with their pioneering approach to finding a better way to get to remote hunting shacks in the snow. Polaris’s brother duo developed an early snowmobile in 1955. Edgar along with three friends embarked on a 1,200 mile journey across the Alaskan wilderness to prove the vehicles weren’t just impractical toys and to demonstrate the vehicle’s durability. They trekked 900 pounds of provisions on toboggans and endured minus 40 degree temperatures. They completed the journey in just 21 days.
After that accomplishment, their machines became so popular that Polaris began manufacturing snowmobiles exclusively. Eventually Polaris began to leverage their strengths in product development, powertrain, manufacturing, distribution and marketing by launching into additional product lines and services.
Polaris has grown to become a global power-sports leader since adding all-terrain-vehicles (ATVs) in 1984. Polaris has since provided some of the best-selling-brands in the industry. Ranger utility vehicles, RZR recreational side-by-sides, and Indian Motorcycle to name a few.
Since launching in 1954 Polaris has grown to be a huge competitor in the power-sports industry. In 2017, their annual sales exceeded 5 billion for the first time and they were named No. 496 on the Fortune 500 list in 2018. This is all attributed to Polaris’s attempt to push boundaries and expand their offerings. In addition to off-road vehicles, they now manufacture commercial vehicles, military vehicles, marine offerings, and the famous Slingshot 3-wheel roadster.
Today, Polaris is still re-imagining the power-sports industry, offering premium ride and drive experience opportunities through Polaris Adventures. Polaris is also a producer of parts, garments, and accessories to enhance the riding experience.
Polaris Snowmobiles
As stated above, the first Polaris snowmobile was created in late 1955. Since then, Polaris has continued to innovate in the snow sports industry. A few notable dates include 1968-1980 with the introduction of the TX Series snowmobiles, known for their high performance. 1980 and 1988 with the introduction of the first Indy sled and the Indy 500 respectively. Since then, there have been numerous other models and innovations of snowmobiles. The snowmobile donated to Habitat for Humanity is a 1992 SuperTrak, an Indy snowmobile.
Donate a Car to Habitat for Humanity
Habitat for Humanity is a worldwide organization that works to foster “strength, stability, and self-reliance through shelter”. Since 1976, Habitat has improved housing for more than 39 million people. Car Donation Wizard serves as a proud partner of Habitat for Humanity through its Cars for Homes Program. By donating your vehicle, you will allow Habitat to assist even more families and help them find and maintain safe, affordable housing.
Car donation is a great way to support your favorite charity while also helping the environment. At least 75-80% of the gross proceeds from the sale of your vehicle will be donated to your local Habitat for Humanity affiliate. These funds will allow Habitat to build new homes and repair old ones so that safe, affordable housing can become a reality across the globe. Help Habitat achieve this mission by donating your car online or by calling us at 1-877-277-4344!