The History of Golf Carts: From Humble Beginnings to Modern Innovation
Golf carts are now a familiar sight not just on golf courses, but in neighborhoods, parks, campuses, and businesses across America. Their journey from simple utility vehicles to versatile, high-tech machines is a fascinating story—one that Intermountain Golf Cars, as an authorized Club Car dealer, is proud to be part of123.
The idea of a golf cart dates back to the early 1930s, when Lyman Beecher of Clearwater, Florida, invented a rickshaw-style cart to help him navigate the course due to arthritis145. Initially, these carts were pulled by caddies and designed specifically for golfers with mobility challenges. Beecher’s invention soon evolved—he added batteries and wheels, making it self-propelled, though early models were limited in range and practicality45.
During the 1930s and 1940s, other inventors experimented with electric carts, but high costs and limited technology kept them from widespread use. For the first two decades, golf carts remained a niche solution, primarily for those unable to walk long distances452.
The 1950s marked a turning point. As technology improved, motorized golf carts—both electric and, soon after, gas-powered—became more reliable and accessible52. Innovators like Merle Williams of California launched the Marketeer Company in 1951, producing electric golf carts that began to appear on more courses5.
By the mid-1950s, companies such as E-Z-GO, Cushman, and, soon after, Club Car, entered the market, each contributing to the evolution of the golf cart52. These early models were simple, open vehicles designed to carry two golfers and their bags, making the game more enjoyable and accessible for all52.
Club Car’s story began in 1958, originally as Landreath Machine in Houston, Texas. In 1962, Bill Stevens, Sr. purchased the company, moved it to Augusta, Georgia, and officially began production under the Club Car name678. Club Car quickly distinguished itself by introducing the first golf car with a steering wheel, making driving easier and more intuitive78.
Celebrities like Sam Snead and Jackie Gleason were among the first to embrace Club Car vehicles, helping to popularize them on and off the course78. Club Car also pioneered the first golf utility vehicle by welding a cargo box onto a golf car, expanding their use for course maintenance and other applications7.
1960’s Club Car
The 1980s saw Club Car’s breakthrough with the introduction of the Club Car DS, designed by Dom Saporito. Renowned for its durability and ease of maintenance, the DS quickly became the flagship model and propelled Club Car to international prominence78. In 1985, Club Car introduced the Carryall II, its first modern utility vehicle, further expanding its reach beyond the golf course7.
The 1990s and 2000s were marked by rapid innovation. Club Car developed the first overhead valve engine (FE290) in 1992 and introduced advanced materials like ArmorFlex, which improved color retention and resale value7. In 2004, the Precedent i2 launched after five years of research, setting new standards for style and comfort7. By 2010, Club Car had produced over two million vehicles, including zero-emission models and advanced fleet management systems7.
Today, Club Car continues to lead the industry with cutting-edge technology and customization options. The Precedent i3 introduced on-board GPS and fleet management, winning multiple awards for innovation7. The Onward® line, launched in 2017, allows customers to personalize their golf cars with a wide range of colors, seats, wheels, and accessories, reflecting the growing trend of using golf carts for personal transportation in communities, resorts, and beyond7.
Club Car’s partnership with technology companies has brought features like 3D course flyovers, vehicle tracking, and mobile merchandising to the modern golf cart experience7. The company’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its zero-emissions vehicles and energy-efficient drive systems7.
Golf carts have evolved far beyond their original purpose. Today, they are used in gated communities, airports, resorts, campuses, and even public safety roles13. Their adaptability, low environmental impact, and ease of use have made them a fixture in American life3.
Conclusion
From the first homemade rickshaw in the 1930s to today’s high-tech, customizable vehicles, the history of golf carts is a testament to innovation and adaptability. As an authorized Club Car dealer, Intermountain Golf Cars is proud to represent a brand that has helped shape this remarkable journey—delivering quality, reliability, and cutting-edge technology to golfers and communities across the region678.
Whether you’re looking for a classic golf car or a modern, street-legal vehicle, Club Car’s legacy of excellence ensures you’ll find the perfect fit for your needs.
- https://www.cartbarn.com/blog/what-is-the-history-of-the-golf-cart–48038
- https://www.bennelsongolfcars.com/blog/a-brief-history-of-golf-carts-in-america–77879
- https://www.thecartcollection.com/the-evolution-of-golf-carts-from-the-course-to-the-community/
- https://www.deverinc.com/blog/the-history-of-the-golf-cart–43517
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Golf_cart
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Club_Car
- https://www.clubcar.com/en-us/our-company/history
https://www.richmondequipment.com/blog/history-of-club-car-golf-carts–40310- https://carts-and-parts.com/how-much-does-a-used-golf-cart/
- https://evolutionelectricvehicle.com