The Evolution of Golf Buggies: History, Innovation & Best Models

1930’s: The Early Days

• The first motorized cart appeared when J.K. Wadley spotted a three-wheeled electric cart in Los Angeles, originally designed to transport seniors to grocery stores.
• In 1932, Lyman Beecher and T.Y. Wadley developed early custom-made electric golf carts.
• These carts were primarily used by disabled golfers who needed assistance covering long distances but were a long way from the leather-seated golf buggies you see at today’s modern golf clubs.

1950’s: Growing Popularity

• By the mid-1950s, golf carts had gained widespread acceptance among American golfers.
• No longer just a mobility aid, they became a convenient way for all players to get around the course.
• E-Z-GO and other brands emerged, fuelling the expansion of golf carts across America.

1960’s: The Rise of Electric Trolleys (Not strictly a Golf Buggy)

• In the 1960s, English golfer Sir Henry Cotton was spotted using what is believed to be the first electric golf trolley, the Tractor Caddy, made by Watson-Oswin Electric.
• Around this time, the term “golf buggy” also started being used, particularly in reference to electric trolleys designed for carrying clubs.

1970’s, 1980’s, and 1990’s: Adding Comfort and Style

During this period, electric golf buggies—led by brands like Club Car—underwent major innovations that helped shape the modern golf cart experience we know today.

• Improved Battery Technology – Early electric golf carts were held back by heavy, inefficient batteries, but by the ’70s, advancements in deep-cycle lead-acid batteries made electric carts far more practical. They lasted longer, required less maintenance, and could finally make it through a full round without running out of juice!
• Lightweight & Durable Designs – Club Car, along with competitors like E-Z-GO, focused on lighter, more durable materials—switching from steel frames (which were prone to rust) to aircraft-grade aluminium. This not only extended the lifespan of the carts but also improved performance on the fairways.
• Smoother & Quieter Rides – One of the biggest complaints about early golf carts was their clunky, noisy operation. By refining electric motors and introducing more efficient controllers, manufacturers made golf carts quieter and smoother, offering a far better experience for golfers while keeping the peace on the course!
• Customization & Comfort – During this era, Club Car also started offering more customization options—better seating, weather protection, and storage—making electric carts more appealing to both golfers and course managers.

2000’s: The Next Innovation

• The launch of Motocaddy in 2004 revolutionized the electric golf trolley market, making it a mainstream commercial product. Now, golfers could walk without the burden of carrying their clubs.
• Today, many golfers have invested in state-of-the-art electric golf trolleys, but it’s golf buggies that continue to evolve with advanced battery technology, GPS systems, and eco-friendly designs.
• However, some creative golfers have even started customizing their golf carts. These souped-up golf carts are both popular and can be very expensive.

2010’s: Golf Buggies Evolve into ParaGolfers

• The first ParaGolfer was invented in 2001 by Ottobock HealthCare, a German company specializing in medical technology and mobility solutions.
• The ParaGolfer is a specially designed all-terrain wheelchair that raises golfers into a standing position, allowing individuals with disabilities to play golf independently.
• It was later developed into the ParaMotion by Ottobock, improving mobility and accessibility on the course.
• Today, several models exist, including the Paramobile by Anthony Netto, who founded the Stand Up and Play Foundation to promote adaptive golf.

For those with spinal injuries and debilitating muscle conditions, the ParaGolfer has been a game-changer, making golf more inclusive for players with mobility impairments.