In the 1930’s, inspired after seeing a three-wheeled cart powered electrically in a Los Angeles grocery store used to transport senior citizens around the premises, inventor JK Wadley of Texas got the idea of creating a similar vehicle that can in turn transport golfers around the courses. Initially, these golf carts were used only by players that had disabilities and found difficulty in getting across the green. Eventually, the vehicle’s convenience caught on and has since become widely accepted as a necessity not only for golf courses but in many other industries.
Golf carts are either electric or gasoline powered, most are built very low as to keep it stable through rough terrains. Golf carts have experienced an evolution in terms of design and functionality. There was a time in history that these carts were three-wheeled, as designed by the popular company Harley Davidson, though these past designs are considered mostly vintage and classics, three-wheeled golf carts are hardly manufactured now, the designs prevalent today have four wheels.
When considering to purchase your own golf cart, golf cart prices won’t be the only factor to consider. The cost of golf carts rely mainly on the design and add-ons especially for customized types, but the first thing to consider is the engine, whether one chooses electric-powered or gas-powered carts. This factor also dictates how the cart will be operated and maintained through time.
Electric Golf Carts
Pretty much like the golf cart’s earlier prototypes, electric golf carts stay true to the initial purposes of the first golf carts – a quiet, low-impact, albeit slower, alternative to real cars on the green. These carts powered by either 36 or 48-volt electric engines won’t be running too fast, usually packing just about 5 horsepower, however, the noiselessness and better torque performance can make up for its lack of speed. Over time the upkeep of these carts is comparably cheaper than its gasoline counterparts. The only downside that owners are keen on is the battery maintenance. The batteries of this engines are rechargeable and with proper maintenance can last for as long as 8 years. Worst case scenario, batteries of these carts might need to be replaced in as early as 2 years, the cost of golf cart’s electric batteries can range from $500 to $700.
Gasoline-Powered Golf Carts
These types of carts are more like cars, packed with 10 to 15 horsepower, it leaves its electric counterparts in the dust. These will run longer as well on a tank full of gas compared to one fully charged electric car battery. However, being more like cars these also entail upkeep like cars, which will maintenance and repairs by mechanics. These are also noisier than electric golf carts, plus, since these run on fuel, unleaded gasoline, emissions are expected. But still, if you are more keen on having a reliable vehicle that can offer top speed, better acceleration, and even better pull on challenging terrain, this might just be the right match for you.
Right Golf Cart – The Price
How much does a golf cart cost? It really varies on the engine and design, as well as the add-ons and customizations. The lowest golf cart prices for brand new 4-seater design can be as low as $5000, but the most popular 4-seater designs that have ample torque and engine power cost around $6,000 to $9,000.
The EZGo Freedom Series has 2-seater and 4-seater varieties to choose from, these golf carts start at around $6,300 to $7500. Usually, the same models are either sold with an electrically powered type as well as a gasoline or diesel-powered counterpart. Generally, the electrical version would sell around five hundred to a thousand dollars more than its fuel-run version. Like for example the popular six-seater EZGo 2015 Express L6 electric golf cart sells for about $11, 550 while its gasoline Kawasaki engine versions sell for about $10, 500. Another unique golf cart model is the EZ Go Terrain which is a 2-seater, and a bit of a crossover as it is equipped with a heavy-duty cargo box that can carry up to one thousand pounds. This cart is designed to withstand more rugged terrain and heavier tasks, lighter models start selling at around $6500, the models that can carry the heaviest loads sell for about $9000.
Most golf carts come out of the factory basically as just a plain cart, no roof or canopy, not even windshields. These are some of the items that can be added on upon purchase of the carts. Windshields usually cost around an additional $100 to $200, these can be fixed on riggers attached to the front of the cart, or retractable and can be folded down. A favorite add-on would be the canopies and enclosures to further protect the riders from the elements. Canopies usually cost from $100 to $300. An enclosure, covering the chassis from top to bottom and all sides costs from $500. Other carts also have convertible rear seats, this means a 2-seater can be interchanged into a 4-seater, vice-versa. Convertible rear seats cost an additional $300. There are other creature comfort add-ons that can be considered like iPad or iphone chargers, LED headlights, sound system, and additional cup holders.
Another modification that a golf cart owner might consider is the color of the cart, although most paint job on the chassis would come standard and poses no additional charge, like standard black, white, or red colors, customized colors would cost added fees. These customized paint jobs would often start at around $350 upwards. Do you need inspiration for your next golf cart’s custom paint job?
Golf carts have become a fun extension of a hobby, it has also become a utility for most, this is why golf cart manufacturers now accommodate the vast demand for customization. Ultimately, many of these add-ons greatly affect how much does the golf cart cost. However, the versatility of these carts outweighs the price. There are already communities across America that prefer carts over cars as main transportation across their neighborhoods because of the lesser noise and less, some even zero, emissions, and it rids the time old issue of parking spaces.