A golf cart, or golf car, is a small, motorized vehicle used to carry golfers and personnel from one place to another on golf courses. These little vehicles were designed for those individuals who can't or aren't inclined to walk, such as senior citizens and the handicapped. Golf carts are typically two-seaters with room for at least two golf bags.

Golf carts are now available in an array styles and colors, just like regular automobiles. The difference between regular automobiles and golf carts is that the latter, due to its small, low-powered engine, is only able to move at slow speeds, which fits it with its intended purpose: golfers can relax and enjoy the surroundings while traversing across fairways and greens during an otherwise laidback game.

These specialized vehicles are built at three primary manufacturers: Yamaha, "E Z Go," and Ingersoll Rand Corporation's Club Car division. The last manufacturer, known simply as "Club Car," is the main source for the golf cart family. Each manufacturer has developed its own line of aftermarket parts and accessories to facilitate off-road capabilities, such as a variety of kits intended to enhance appearance and performance in non-public settings.

Golf carts run on both gas-powered and electricity-powered engines, but can also accommodate larger engines, such as the Honda 24 HP v twin engine or the Briggs and Stratton engine having a variety of sizes and power capabilities that start at 16-31HP. Speed and torque gear capabilities for both gas- and electric-powered carts can also be enhanced to personal preferences, considering the particular engine is designed to accommodate such increments.

Golf carts have small shallow-treaded tires intended for easy traveling on the smooth, flat or undulating surfaces of golf grass, but can be fitted with larger tires having deeper, more aggressive tread patterns for heavier terrain.

Other golf cart features include: hitch mounts, cargo boxes, radios, high-performance mufflers, air filters, and paint and decal sets for that personal touch.

A variety of this golf cart can also be used in many non-golf communities that are safe and quiet and have very few or no pollutants. These carts are called Neighborhood Electric Vehicle (NEVs), and have limited but incremental operating capabilities. This kind of [golf] cart is especially ideal for senior communities.

Golf carts are neat little vehicles that are both convenient and easy to operate. When in nice weather and a pleasing environment, they can provide all of one's traveling needs without an effort.