Knowledge Centre

Electric Golf Buggy Alternatives for Industry

Knowledge Centre

Beyond the Electric Golf Buggy: Site-Ready Solutions for Moving People, Goods & Equipment

The electric golf buggy has come a long way from its origins on the fairway; making its mark in a wide range of commercial environments. These vehicles are quiet, compact and relatively affordable, making their workplace appeal easy to understand. That said, their limitations show in more demanding environments.

However, these light vehicles are not always the ideal choice for demanding environments. At Sitecraft, we help you look beyond the basics to find equipment that is convenient and a genuine fit for your needs.

In this article, we’re exploring the strengths and limitations of the electric golf buggy. Plus, we’ve outlined 4 alternate options that could be a better match for your business.

 

Understanding the golf buggy

A golf buggy is a light vehicle that is designed for transport across the manicured greens and paved pathways of a golf course. In recent years, they have also gained popularity as commercial vehicles and are used for a variety of workplace tasks.

While “golf buggy” is common in Australia and the UK, in the US, the same vehicle is typically referred to as a golf cart.

Why are electric golf buggies popular in commercial settings?

An electric golf buggy is a versatile vehicle that can support day-to-day operations in a range of workplaces – from groundskeepers to event managers, warehouses, resorts, council facilities and more.

Beyond workplace efficiency, their rising popularity can be attributed to a few key factors such as sustainability, affordability and safety.

Sustainability

As a zero emissions vehicle, an electric golf buggy can help reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. If you rely on a renewable energy source (like solar) for your battery charging; then you’re doubling up on sustainability.

Cost

With advancements in battery manufacturing, the cost of a new electric golf buggy has come down significantly.  This also offersgreat long-term value; with the cost of charging typically lower than fuel and less maintenance required.

Safety

Golf buggies are compact, low speed vehicles which can help reduce the risk of an accident as it gives the operator more time to react. They also have efficient braking systems which can help improve reaction speed.

Noise reduction

Electric vehicles of all kinds are much quieter than their gas-powered counterparts. This has multiple potential benefits; from helping with OH&S compliance to improving the guest experience by limiting noise pollution.

 

Is an electric golf buggy suitable for commercial use?

If your operations require high-capacity transport, rugged reliability or compliance with registration standards – then a standard electric golf buggy is simply not up to the task.

While it is possible to upgrade an electric golf buggy, this usually requires significant cost investment. Rather than retrofitting a low-duty vehicle to meet high-duty needs, you can choose the right vehicle from the start.

Sitecraft are specialists in supplying equipment for better workplaces. We offer a wide range of electric commercial utility vehicles with complete customer service to help you find an ideal fit.

Our team takes care of everything on your behalf – from scoping your requirements and recommending fit-for-purpose vehicles to building, registering and delivering a quality solution.

After handover, you have added peace of mind with Sitecraft Care – our dedicated after-sales program which includes ongoing maintenance, access to genuine spare parts and technical support.

 

What are the alternatives to an electric golf buggy?

Instead of an electric golf buggy, your site may be better served by an Electric Utility Task Vehicle (UTV), People Mover or Commercial Electric Vehicle. Depending on your needs, each vehicle type offers distinct capabilities – ranging from transporting heavier loads and off-road handling to extended trays and built-in lighting for night use.

These capabilities can include:

  • Carrying heavy loads including multiple people, equipment or goods
  • Designed for outdoor use on uneven terrain
  • Higher speeds to help improve workplace efficiency
  • Specialty tyres for better grip in wet and dry conditions
  • Bright lighting for use at night
  • Longer trays for increased carrying capacity
  • Lifted vehicles with improved ground clearance

 

Here’s what each Electric Utility Vehicle is designed to do – and where they each deliver the most value:

Electric Utility Task Vehicles (UTVs)

The high-powered workhorse for your operations, electric UTVs are commercially-rated vehicles that deliver in rugged conditions. Our UTVS are suited for uneven terrain and off-path navigation with a carrying capacity of up to 500kg, sometimes more.

Commercial Electric Vehicles

Low-speed commercial electric vehicles are similar to a truck or ute, in a more compact package. They are best suited to controlled environments such as council facilities, education campuses, aged care or resorts and venues.

People Movers

People movers are exactly what they sound like – efficient transport for passengers. These vehicles are commonly used in hospitality, airports, aged care, council facilities and for events. Standard vehicles have space for 2-6 people, while customisation can allow for more.

Specialty & Custom Vehicles

At Sitecraft, we believe in fit-for-purpose equipment for every customer. Our Built to Task vehicles are designed for specialised needs – such as emergency services, disability access and more.

Looking for features not in our standard range? Our dedicated product specialists can help you create the exact equipment your business requires.

 

Why choose Sitecraft for your electric utility vehicle?

  • Heavy duty 5kW AC motor standard to all our vehicles
  • Free upgrade to a powerful 150 AMP commercial lithium battery, plus fast charger
  • Tow bar included
  • Professionally hardwired amber strobe lighting
  • Delivery included in the final price
  • Comprehensive after-sales support from technicians around Australia

 

How to choose the best electric utility vehicle for your site

Choosing the best electric utility vehicle comes down to 3 key factors: payload, environment and use case. Here’s how you can make the right choice.

Payload

Payload is the maximum weight a vehicle can carry; including passengers, cargo and accessories. It’s an important safety measure which, if overloaded, can impact your suspension, brakes and increase risks of tipping.

Environment

Some vehicles excel on flat surfaces, while others are built to withstand uneven terrain. For optimal performance, make sure to check the ideal environment for a vehicle before you purchase.

Use Case

The final question to ask before purchasing a utility vehicle is: how do you plan to use it? Matching your intended use case with the design and function of the vehicle can help improve productivity.

At Sitecraft, we’re experts at matching equipment to business needs. Our team take the time to talk through your options so you can make an informed decision.

Vehicle Type Environment Payload Use Case
Electric Golf Buggy Flat surfaces and manicured grounds 225kg-450kg Transporting light loads or few passengers
UTV Outdoor use and uneven terrain Up to 500kg Workplace efficiency in rugged conditions
People Mover Indoor or urban outdoor use 400kg-800kg Designed for smooth passenger transport
Commercial Vehicle Controlled environments Up to 1012kg Made for transporting heavy or bulky loads

 

Matching every customer with ideal equipment

Sitecraft’s range of utility vehicles combine the convenience of an electric golf buggy with powerful operation to meet real-world demands. We pride ourselves on our high levels of customer care – from your initial enquiry to our ongoing after-sales support.

To discuss your business requirements, call our team on 1300 363 152 or submit your details via our website.