With so many different brand names available in the market place today for electric golf car style vehicles it is very difficult to decide exactly what vehicle is right for your application. Hopefully this information will make your next alternative vehicle solution (AVS) purchase a lot easier.
First, the types of vehicles, applications and things you need to consider.
- shuttle vehicles (also known as people movers) come in multi
2, 4, 6, and 8 seat configurations. Some shuttles even come
with small utility trays mounted on the rear of the vehicle for
carry luggage - utility vehicles again come in various styles and sizes all
with different carrying, towing capacities and features that
are suitable for all types of applications, the most popular
being ground maintenance - industrial vehicles with heavy duty construction are designed
to take the heaviest of payloads - 4 x 4 vehicles are for when the going gets rough and don’t
try shortcuts using a standard two-wheel drive vehicle that are
not designed for that sort of abuse. Look into getting yourself
a 4 x 4.
The applications that electric AVS vehicles are being used for in Australia these days are endless.
- people movers ferrying multiple passengers
- utility vehicles – whether it is a tilt tray, flat tray, or something
custom made, your ground staff, cleaners, maintenance
personnel, rubbish removing
Not all vehicles or vehicle brands are the same. There are many variables to consider when purchasing, particularly if you are looking at an electric vehicle.
The main items to take into consideration before purchasing an electric vehicle include:
- voltage – most of the standard electric vehicles available in
Australia are either 36 or 48 volt - motors – motor sizes do vary from brand to brand, vehicle to
vehicle and model to model, even among the top three vehicle
suppliers. Motor sizes can range from 3.5hp up to 22hp - breaking – most vehicles operate rear drum brakes as a
standard feature. Hydraulic disk brakes are available on
some brands and these are highly recommended, particularly
if carrying passengers or extra payloads - lighting – a lighting package is standard on some brand
vehicles and optional on others - warranty – the standard warranty period is two years but again
this can vary from brand to brand.
In summarising, you wouldn’t buy a new car on price alone or without first doing your research. Quality equates to safety and performance. The vehicles that your clientele see being used at your facilities reflect directly on the facility itself.
At the end of the day you have to determine how important is the safety, wellbeing and happiness of your staff and clients as opposed to your hip pocket.
Because the wrong decision when purchasing could end up costing you more in the long run than the money you initially saved on the purchase.
*Copy supplied by Club Car
