The global micromobility market is undergoing a major transformation, and golf carts are emerging as a promising solution for short-distance urban commuting. This article evaluates the viability of golf carts as an urban transportation tool in the international market, taking advantage of the rapid growth of global demand (global market sales have reached approximately 215,000 units by 2024, far higher than approximately 45,000 units in 2020) and the trend of population aging (the global population over 65 years old will reach approximately 1.3 billion in 2024, especially in Europe, North America and parts of Asia).
1. Market Demand Analysis
A. “Last Mile” Connections in Western Communities
- Retirement communities: For example, *The Villages* in Florida, USA, have widely used golf carts as the main means of transportation. Golf carts are the preferred mode of transportation for residents in these communities due to their low speed, safety and cost-effectiveness.
- Tourism and campus transportation: Many resorts (such as Sun City in Arizona) and universities (such as the University of California, San Diego) have used golf carts for internal transportation and logistics. This trend reflects the increasing demand for compact, zero-emission vehicles, and even becomes a trend.
B. Policy-driven opportunities
- Regulatory relaxation: In Texas and Florida, the government has expanded the use of low-speed vehicles (LSVs) such as golf carts, allowing them to travel on roads with a speed limit of 35 mph, creating a favorable environment for the popularization of these vehicles.
- Electric vehicle incentives: The EU Green Deal and California’s zero-emission vehicle regulations are in line with the environmental characteristics of golf carts, accelerating the application of golf carts in urban transportation.
2. Safety and Compliance Upgrades
- Enhanced safety features: In order to adapt to the needs of urban traffic, many golf carts have integrated safety designs such as LED lighting, seat belts and reinforced frames, which meet the FMVSS 500 standard and can better protect the safety of drivers and passengers.
- Battery innovation: The continuous development of lithium battery technology has greatly improved the range of golf carts, which can support 50-70 miles of driving per charge, and support the optional larger capacity battery, alleviating users’ “range anxiety”.
3. Case Study: Golf Carts Tailored for European Cities
A. Compact Urban Design
- Narrow Street Reconstruction: In Barcelona, Spain, a trial of 1.2-meter-wide small golf carts was used to enter and exit the historical district, greatly alleviating the problem of traffic congestion.
- Freight Version: A logistics company in the Netherlands uses a specially customized cargo golf cart for “last 500 meters” package delivery, effectively reducing the use of diesel trucks by 40%, saving energy and reducing emissions, and improving environmental benefits.
B. Subscription Model
A vehicle rental company in London launched an hourly rental service for golf carts in low-emission zones, especially for tourists and commuters here, providing flexible and green travel options for urban transportation, which also greatly improves the noise and pollution in the area.
4. Future Forecast
Some institutions predict that by 2030, the global micro-transportation market is expected to reach US$500 billion, and golf carts will account for 15% of the market share in those suburbs and retirement communities.
Conclusion
Golf carts have a promising future beyond golf courses, offering a viable transportation solution for cities facing aging populations and environmental demands. To maximize this potential, manufacturers should focus on regulatory compliance, local production, and the integration of smart technologies.
Manufacturers can start with pilot projects in retirement communities and tourist centers, and work with local ride-sharing platforms to leverage these opportunities to further expand the use of golf carts in urban transportation.
Post time: Feb-27-2025
