by History of Golf Carts
Golf carts have come a long way since their inception in the early 20th century. One of the earliest patented golf carts was built in Glendale, California in 1932 by a man named Orville Geagle. Geagle’s golf cart was rather basic, consisting of a wooden platform mounted on an old car frame and powered by a small gasoline engine. However, it served its main purpose of transporting golfers and their gear around the course.
The real growth of the golf cart industry took place after WWII in the 1950s-60s. Major manufacturers like Yamaha, Club Car, and E-Z-GO entered the market and started mass producing utility vehicles specifically designed for golf. These early models were more enclosed than Geagle’s cart and offered basic amenities like rear seats, roof, and storage areas. Gasoline was the dominant power source. The golden age of golf cart manufacturing had truly begun.
Types of Golf Carts
Today’s golf cart market offers a wide variety of models to choose from based on use, specifications, and price point:
Push/Pull Carts: As the name suggests, these lightweight aluminum or steel framed carts are meant to be pushed or pulled by hand behind the golfer. Affordably priced, push carts provide a convenient way to transport clubs and bags during a round.
Gasoline Powered Carts: Gas golf carts remain a popular option, especially at larger courses that host tournaments or have hilly terrain. Powerful 4-stroke gasoline engines provide good range and performance. However, gas carts require regular maintenance.
Electric Powered Carts: Electrical golf carts are now the most common type due to lower operating costs and quieter operation. Modern lithium-ion battery technologies have significantly boosted range to around 18 holes on a single charge. Cart owners appreciate zero emissions too.
Luxury Carts: For customers seeking added comfort, premium brands offer higher-end luxury cart models with extra legroom, sound systems, LED headlights, and other amenities. Some options even include GPS and Bluetooth connectivity. Naturally, these fully loaded carts have higher upfront costs.
Golf Cart Accessories
Enhancing the functionality and style of Golf Carts has become a thriving industry in itself. Popular aftermarket accessories allow cart owners to fully customize their rides:
Covers: Heavy-duty and waterproof covers provide protection from sun, rain, and tree debris during transport and storage. Designer covers are also available.
Custom Graphics/Wraps: Companies produce semi-permanent graphic decals and full vinyl wraps which can brandish company logos, designs, or custom paintings on cart bodies.
LED Lighting: Kits install extra spotlights, underbody neon tubes, and headlight upgrades to boost visibility on dimly lit courses after dark.
Audio Systems: Adding high-powered stereos, subwoofers, and speakers creates a fun mobile party environment perfect for social golf outings.
Storage Accessories: Caddies, racks, coolers, bag stands, and organizers help keep clubs and refreshments organized yet accessible during play.
The Rise of Electric Golf Carts
Over the last decade, electric golf carts have taken over from gas-powered models as the technology has progressed. Offering zero emissions and significantly lower operating costs, these battery-powered vehicles are an environmentally-friendly choice. Recent advancements have also dramatically improved electric cart range and capabilities.
Lithium-ion batteries similar to those now used in electric cars represent the biggest leap forward. Individual lithium cells can store more energy in a lighter and smaller package compared to older lead-acid or flooded batteries. This allows for extended driving times between charges. Some top-of-the-line lithium carts can travel 27 holes or more before requiring a recharge. Automatic battery management systems maximize efficiency too.
Advanced electric motors now deliver greater torque and acceleration comparable to small gas engines. Digital displays provide useful data like battery level, estimated range remaining, and charging status. Strategically positioned DC fast-charge stations around courses enable electric cart fleets to turn over quicker too.
With eco-friendly products gaining more popularity, electric golf cart manufacturers are growing even faster than the overall industry. Silent rides, low maintenance, and lower long-term costs have sealed the switch from gas to electricity for most courses and customers. Electric power seems poised to completely take over the golf cart world within this decade.
