Author: devcarolinagolf

There’s a compelling reason why golf carts are now more commonly termed “golf cars”. Originally the golfing enthusiast’s constant companion, these small utility cars have gone beyond cruising country clubs and golf courses; they have eventually made it to the streets and are used in various applications. Today, we see a lot of them making the rounds in major public roads in several states across the country, as well as in commercial and private vicinities.

The Most Common Applications of Golf Cars

Today, we see golf cars in all designs, models, brands and levels of performance. There are also custom golf cars designed to achieve a particular look or service. Many of golf cars are modified to look a lot like popular automobiles – only smaller, more space-saving, more economical and offer better convenience. Others are fitted with extensions and commercial attachments allowing for optimized and inexpensive land management or branded group transportation services.

Golf cars have become an essential part of daily life for many individuals and organizations. People have come to rely heavily on these products as the economical, convenient and practical utility cars that they are. Truly, golf cars can have a world of uses:

• Easy and safe mobilization of persons with disabilities and senior citizens in self-contained communities and retirement areas.
• Transport of people, equipment, produce and other goods within airports, spacious buildings, campuses, seminaries, dealerships, warehouses, farms, villages and other private or commercial properties.
• Security patrolling and maintenance of the aforementioned properties
• Convenient transport within construction site
• Gardening and other yard work and navigate the entire vicinity conveniently.
• Event transportation, such as in weddings.
• Snow plowing.
• Hobbies and recreation, such as 4×4 driving and off-road activities.

What the Law Says About Golf Cars on the Road

In 1998, when the number of electric-powered golf carts and small vehicles frequenting the streets like any other vehicle skyrocketed, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, operating under the Department of Transportation, promulgated the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 500 ((49 CFR 571.500).

Originally, the use of street legal golf carts and similar small vehicles were subject to local and state approval, as long as they did not exceed the speed limit of 20 miles per hour. Golf carts manufactured or modified to go faster than that are considered motor vehicles under the Federal law and should therefore comply with existing motor vehicle safety standards.

It was clear, however, that compliance with the motor vehicle safety standards under the Federal law was not feasible for golf carts and similar smaller vehicles. Consequently, the NHTSA reclassified golf carts with top speed of 20 to 25 miles per hour as “low-speed vehicles.”

LSVs are required under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 500 “to be equipped with headlamps, stop lamps, turn signal lamps, tail lamps, reflex reflectors, parking brakes, rear view mirrors, windshields, seat belts, and vehicle identification numbers” for safety purposes. At present, each golf cart should have a displayed warning label confirming that they cannot be driven on public roads at a speed of more than 25 miles per hour.

The Federal Highway Administration, as detailed in its Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices, also allowed states to utilize warning signs about golf carts and other LSVs sharing the road with automobiles and other slow-moving transport utilities such as mopeds and bikes.

Presently, State laws govern on-road use of golf carts in their jurisdiction. Street legal golf carts, which are widely used at present in many places all over the country, should meet all safety equipment requirements, as well as operational and speed limits – in full compliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 500.

Specifically, the government of the state of North Carolina has opened up these decisions and allowed each municipality to determine their own golf car street legal requirements; which do not have to adhere to federal guidelines on the subject. Make sure to contact a trusted local golf car dealership in your area to determine the best practices and guidelines for your neighborhood before making your purchase.

Talk To A Trusted Golf Cart Dealer in the Carolinas

Whom you speak to about your golf car needs will play a key role in finding what you are looking for. Trust only an experienced and expert team that can offer you an extensive fleet of new and custom golf cars to help you navigate your lifestyle and business.

Sources:
http://business.time.com/2012/10/22/golf-carts-hardly-just-for-the-golf-course-anymore/
http://www.nhtsa.gov/cars/rules/rulings/lsv/lsv.html#lsv3
http://assets.aarp.org/rgcenter/ppi/liv-com/insight54.pdf

A major part of golf cart etiquette focuses on safety. There are important safety measures every person should take when driving their golf cart as it will protect them and the people around them. Here’s a look at some safety tips that will help you maintain your golf cart etiquette.

Set the Parking Brake

Whenever you step out of your Carolina golf cart, remember to set the parking brake. Neglecting this important safety function could send your cart rolling away and endangering everyone in its path.

Don’t Drink and Drive

Just because golf carts move at slower speeds does not mean they cannot do harm. Operators can also receive a DWI for driving while intoxicates as it is not only frowned upon, but it is also illegal.

Use Hand Signals When Turning

Not all golf carts are equipped with turn signals. As a safety precaution and form of courtesy, drivers should always use hand signals when making a turn. Also, keep in mind that turn signals are not always noticed by other drivers, so it’s a good idea to always use hand signals. Click here to view a Hand Signals visual guide from the NHTSA.

Slow Down On Sharp Turns

Most golf carts for sale in NC do not come with doors which makes falling out on a sharp turn a distinct possibility. Start to brake before making a sharp turn so that your speed is minimal and everyone in your car is safe.

Ride the Brake

When going down a hill, operators should always remember to ride the brake. This will slow the speed of your golf cart and not only make the ride safer for passengers, but safer for any golfers who may be randomly passing by.

Stay Out of Bad Weather

Standard neighborhood golf cars tend to skid on wet surfaces and can also be susceptible to lightning strikes. When the weather turns bad, it is best to head for a safer spot indoors as there a number of things that could go wrong.

Staying tuned to weather forecasts and local alerts can help you and your companions have a safer, more enjoyable ride.

Carolina Golf Cars can help you find the right golf cart for you. Stocked with a large supply of Yamaha golf carts, custom golf carts, street legal golf carts and more, Carolina Golf Cars store is your one-stop shop for everything in the world of golf carts.

Golf carts serve a variety of purposes and no matter what reason you have for owning your very own, it’s important to know the ins and outs. That means getting familiar with all the important terms and parts associated with a golf cart. This plays a huge part when it comes to buying, maintaining and servicing your golf cart in Charlotte.

Certain terms are pretty self-explanatory, but something like curb weight carries a different meaning. Curb weight is a term used to define the overall weight of the cart that is equipped with all the standard equipment. That includes a full tank of gas along with all the other necessary fluids, but it does not include any type of cargo. Dry weight is the term that refers to the weight of a car without any fluids or fuel.

Golf cart sales all require the buyer to choose an electronic or gas-powered cart. Electronic cars obviously have some different features and one of those is a controller. This is an important component because it makes it possible for power to travel from the battery to motor.

Some electronic carts are called NEVs, which stands for Neighborhood Electronic Vehicle. These qualify as low speed vehicles that are considered street legal golf carts. LSVs (legal street vehicles) are a little different in that they can be powered by fuels other than electricity. LSVs also require a top speed minimum of 20 mph.

In both electric and gas-operated cars, the wheelbase is the name given to the space that lies between the center of the rear and front wheels. And in carts with a bed, the cargo bed height measures the amount of distance that lies between the platform of the bed and the ground.

The drive system of a golf cart refers to the amount of wheels that receive engine torque all at the same time. Bore and stroke is another engine term that describes the distance traveled by the pitons in each engine cycle.

No matter what purpose a golf cart serves, it is recommended to obtain golf cart insurance. There are different policies that exist to protect drivers as well as their golf cars. A quick consult with an insurance agent will shed more light on the finer parts of this area.

We always recommend reviewing the product manual for full details and specifications to help you become thoroughly familiar with your vehicle.

Carolina Golf Cars is the leading distributor of new, refurbished and custom made golf carts. Featuring all types of golf carts for sale, our available choices are virtually unlimited.

References:
http://www.nhtsa.gov/cars/rules/rulings/lsv/lsv.html

Make your golf cart your very own is all part of the fun. With some upgrades you can better tailor your cart to your needs and desires, whether they be functional or aesthetic. Not all golf cart upgrades require major engine or body work and not all upgrades have to cost a fortune. Here is a look at some affordable upgrades that can change the entire look of your golf cart from Carolina Golf Cars of Charlotte.

Lift Kits

Having a lift kit added to your golf cart is an easy way to make a bold statement. By raising the body of the golf cart further from the ground you will gain more ground clearance. This means there is less risk of bottoming out and potential damaging your carts, especially when driving off-road or on uneven terrain. Lift kits are also beneficial to those operating a street legal golf cart, A.K.A low speed vehicle. The added height a lift kit creates will make the golf cart more visible to regular motor vehicles, certainly those with their own lift kits.

Hubcaps and Rims

The selection of hub caps and rims for golf carts is just as extensive as it is for cars. Turbine hubcaps or chromed rims are just a couple of varieties that can really make your golf cart stand out from the rest of the pack. Carolinagolfcars.com/parts-accessories/ has a variety of hubcaps, rims, and tires to select from.

Seat Cushions

Deluxe seat cushions can provide your golf cart with a completely different look. These are available in a wide array of colors. Brightening up the inside if your golf cart is a cheaper alternative to getting a custom paint job. But combining colored seat cushions with a custom paint job will really enhance the look of your cart.

Steering Wheel

There are lots of different steering wheels you can incorporate to your golf cart. A wood-grain steering wheel can provide a more elegant look while camouflage steering wheels go great with off-road custom golf carts used for hunting. Steering wheel covers are also available in wide varieties.

Custom Paint

Why settled for any ordinary color golf cart when your cart can truly stand out? Custom paint jobs are pretty much unlimited. If you can think it, someone can paint it. This is not only limited to color, but it extends to designs as well. If you want a golf cart with flames on the side, there is no reason you cannot have it.

Carolina Golf Cars has the capability to provide you with the golf cart of your dreams. Whether you are looking for a used golf cart, street legal golf carts or Yamaha golf cars, there is something for everyone in our showroom. Carolina Golf Cars also offers golf car repair and accessories from all the industry leaders.

Carolina Golf Cars is working to keep its inventory available as it experiences increased demand and supply chain shortages. Watch the WCNC Charlotte interview with our Sale Manager to learn more about the situation.

https://youtu.be/spJ0uAova8o

Click here for full article https://www.wcnc.com/article/money/golf-cart-sales-increase-amid-pandemic-covid/275-85548b24-d17e-433c-a630-24680528aa8a

Golf carts are usually a sizeable investment, which makes protecting that golf cart an important part of ownership. Carolina Golf Cars in Charlotte provides us a closer look at some helpful ways to make sure your golf cart is always protected.

Park Indoors

Storing your golf cart indoors will protect it from the elements of nature and it will also reduce the risk of theft. One of the more popular items thieves tend to look for when breaking into a home is actually golf carts. Don’t make your golf cart anymore of a target by parking out in the open and unattended.

Proper Cleaning

Owners may want to provide their golf cart with the best cleaning possible and that could lead to the use of a pressure washer. Avoid this method as a pressure washer can actually damage your golf cart. Stick with an ordinary wash using a simple garden hose.

Purchase an Alarm

There are alarm systems that are designed for golf carts. They work the same way as a car alarm and sound when someone attempts to start the cart without a key. Sometimes, the presence of an alarm is enough to dissuade thieves as it means a lot of extra hassle for them.

Routine Inspection

It’s a good idea to inspect your golf cart every now and then. This can be just a quick and simple check. For the most basic safety needs, make sure your brake pedal and accelerator pedal are not obstructed and can be pressed down with ease. For a more rigorous inspection and maintenance work, schedule an appointment with a golf car service center.

Overnight Storage

To make sure your battery does not inadvertently drain, check to ensure that all devices are powered off when storing your golf cart for the night. Also, make sure the parking brake is set. For long-term storage, be sure to change the tow/run switch from run to tow.

Check Lights

Being out in your golf cart after sunset means that you will have to rely on your lights and turn signals. That is why it is recommended to always check your lights each week to make sure they are working properly. Driving at night without lights could be dangerous for you and it also makes your golf cart more susceptible to damage.

Carolina Golf Cars is stocked with a long line of accessories to make sure your golf cart is fully protected. Our Charlotte custom golf carts can meet your exact specifications as well. Carolina Golf Cars also brings you top quality golf cart repair along with a vast selection of new and used golf carts for sale.

There are several ways to enhance the look of your golf cart. Many different customization features can provide your cart with its own unique look. Here’s a glimpse at just a few of popular and innovative add-on features people are using on their golf carts from Carolina Golf Cars Dealership.

Upgraded motors

Most golf carts are equipped with a governor that regulates its speed. In some instances that can enhance safety, but other times it can just slow you down. If you choose to operate your golf cart somewhere other than a golf course, you might need to get where you are going a little quicker. Upgrading your motor will keep you from having just another slow-moving golf cart with some added speed and torque.

Lights

Operating a golf cart in a community can put drivers at risk. If your cart is anywhere near cars, it is important that you are noticed. Adding taillights, headlights and turn signals are excellent ways to maintain safety standards when operating a golf cart. Not only will it help at night, but it will enable your golf cart to be seen more clearly on overcast days, in fog and at dusk or dawn.

Painted Bodies

Give your used golf carts a unique and fresh look by customizing the exterior with a new paint job. There is no reason you have to ride around on a golf cart that has a boring, plain color. Spice it up with different colors and designs as the customization process can truly make you stand out on the golf course. To make it pop a little more, go for the option of adding alloy wheels.

Windshields

A front windshield can help on early mornings when the weather can be a bit on the cool side. Windshields keep winds from rippling through you as you travel through a course. It is also a shield from random golf balls that might inadvertently come your way as a potential danger. Many of these windshields have a horizontal latch, which can be lowered to provide better visibility.

Camouflage

Any hunter knows the weariness that can set in after hours of walking through the woods. Golf carts can now be decked out with camouflage to aid in hunting. You could enjoy riding in clearings while seeking out new spots to hunt. It enables hunters to cover a lot more ground and can also make hunts more successful. Your entire customized golf cart would be covered with camouflage, including the seat, tires, steering wheel and more.

Overhead Audio System

Travel along with a clear sound of your favorite songs as part of your overhead audio system. There’s no reason you shouldn’t have access to your favorite music while on your golf cart. A radio seems almost like an essential in your car and it is not much different for many golf car owners. This can include radio, mp3 player or CD player.

Whatever kind of add-on feature you want to enhance the look of your golf cart, Carolina Golf Cars can help. We sell a wide variety of parts and accessories as well as custom golf cart parts.

Some people may have the impression that golf carts are just slow-moving vehicles that transport golfers from one green to the next. There are more uses and facts about golf carts that many people do not realize. Here’s a look at some interesting facts about the golf cart.

Golf Cart Etiquette
When playing on a course, there is an expected level of golf cart etiquette that goes beyond not driving like a maniac. Always remember to stay behind other golfers. Wet turf is also a problem area as it can cause carts to get stuck, or cause the turf to tear when being driven over. Try to avoid these wet spots. Some courses have a 90-degree rule which permits golfers to drive out onto the grass to retrieve their ball. However, golfers are expected to turn onto the grass at a 90-degree angle when they locate their ball and are not expected to just cruise up the fairway.

The World’s Fastest Golf Cart
Some people decided to push boundaries with their custom golf carts. The world’s fastest golf cart has now reached a whopping speed of 118 mph. The record time was recorded in November of 2014. While playing on the golf course, most carts are equipped with a governor which tops out speeds usually around 12 mph. But the golf cart has now notched a place in the Guinness Book of World Records with a blazing speed of 118.76 mph.

History of the Golf Cart
Golf carts were first introduced in the early 1930’s as a means of helping disabled golfers get around the course. It was not until the 1950’s that golf carts were mass produced and began gaining acceptance among golfers. However, people not fond of the idea labeled golf carts as the ‘arthritis special’ during that era. These earliest models had only one tire in the front and two in the back. Big changes would not arrive until the 1970’s and 1980’s when gasoline powered golf carts hit the market. This came with the addition in most cases of a fourth wheel as seen traditionally in today’s models. Still being built with the choice of gasoline or electric powered motors, golf carts today are more versatile than ever.

Carolina Golf Cars has established a long history of providing quality golf carts for sale. Custom-made golf cars are part of the long line of inventory along with new, refurbished and used golf carts. Selection and quality continue to go hand in hand at Carolina Golf Cars.

Being able to drive your golf cart on the street offers convenience and excitement. However, it does not come without following a certain protocol. Here is a look at all of the areas that need to be addressed before your golf cart can be considered legal to drive in the street.

Paperwork
When you buy a golf cart you will need the proper documentation, which includes all the pertinent information you will need to make it legal. There will be an ID number issued, which is similar to a VIN number on a motor vehicle. There will also be paperwork provided by the golf cart manufacturer which states its speeds. That is a requirement to classify it as a low-speed vehicle since that is how it will be registered.

Safety Functions
Headlights are required as they provide safety at night, dusk, damn, and during times of bad weather. Taillights are also a must as they alert any vehicles travelling behind the golf cart of its presence on the road. Turn signals are another requirement, just as they would be in any other kind of motor vehicle. Seat belts are one more safety function that is mandatory. There must be enough seat belts for each passenger, which generally tops off at four.

Visibility
In order to be considered street legal golf carts have to be equipped with side view and rear view mirrors. There also has to be a windshield installed, one that is durable enough to maintain the safety of the passengers while also providing clear visibility for the driver.

Brakes
Front and rear brakes are required and they must also be independent brakes. This will ensure that the golf cart will be able to stop on its own, without the assistance of another vehicle or object. A parking brake is also required to ensure safety when the vehicle is immobile.

Road Rules
Certain municipalities and communities have restrictions on street legal golf carts. Check with your local branch and learn about any qualifications or restrictions that may apply. Also remember that you are expected to adhere to the rules of the road and can be ticketed by police just as you would be when driving a car.

Carolina Golf Cars offers a large selection of street legal golf carts for sale. And if you need some kind of accessories to add to your used golf cart, our vast supply of inventory has you covered. For the very best in golf cart sales and golf cart repair, visit the professionals at Carolina Golf Cars North Carolina.

One way to improve your golf cart is by purchasing one of several golf cart kits that serve a variety of functions. Golf cart kits can make a wealth of difference and here’s a look at the most popular kits to choose from.

Lift Kits
The most common golf cart kit that is purchased is a lift kit, which raises your cart higher off the ground. While some people add a lift kit because of the way it looks, there is a functionality to it. Lift kits allow you to install bigger tires, which can help when driving through rough terrain. Lift kits are also ideal for owners looking to haul weighty loads. This is also a must have for off-road golf cart owners.

LED Light Kits
LED light kits are available for headlights, taillights and brake lights. LED bulbs last a longer and are much more reliable than a standard bulb. These LED bulbs will last for years, meaning that you will probably be free from ever having to replace a bulb on your cart. LED bulbs are also impervious to temperature changes while sturdy enough to withstand the wear and tear of normal golf cart use. Carolina Golf Cars in Charlotte NC offers a vast array of LED light kits to choose from.

Graphic Kits
There is a long line of choices when it comes to adding custom graphic kits to your golf cart. That doesn’t mean you need a whole new paint job. Graphic kits provide a way of adding color and designs to your golf cart. It can also aid in functionality. For example, hunters who use a golf cart can opt for a camouflage graphics kit. There really is a vast array of graphics to choose from and it costs much less than a custom paint job.

Rear Seat Kits
These kits can turn your two-passenger golf cart into one that comfortably seats four passengers. The kits actually provide extra seats that fit onto the back of your cart. These are popular add-on items made by all the leading manufacturers, including Club Car and Yamaha golf carts. Rear seat kits typically come in vinyl or tweed.

Carolina Golf Cars can help enhance the look of your cart by offering the best in golf cart sales and golf cart repairs. Also offering custom golf carts for sale, everything the golf cart owner needs is now at one place. Carolina Golf Cars is the only name when it comes to the very best in golf cart sales.