In a move that would make Al “Caddyshack” Czervik get up and dance, Mercedes-Benz has unveiled designs for a visionary golf cart that could revolutionise how we get around the course.
Based upon ideas submitted via golf fans during an international competition, the Mercedes-Benz Vision Golf Cart combines aspects of Mercedes-Benz vehicles with all the futuristic gadgets of tomorrow’s golf carts.
Powered by a battery that is charged by a solar module integrated into the roof, the vehicle features touchscreen monitors for various functions, and is controlled via a joystick mounted on the centre console, making it possible for either passenger to drive the cart. The centre console incorporates a multimedia panel that includes a docking station for an iPad or iPhone and a USB interface. The cart features built-in loudspeakers for music or for Bluetooth phone communication with other golf carts or to the clubhouse to order drinks or food for halfway catering.
A big, red “fore” button can be used to quickly warn other players of wayward shots. Pressing this button sends a warning to all other golf carts within the danger zone.
A heads-up display integrated into the windscreen would be used to show the course layout, the current status of the game or weather information. Users can share the digital scorecard or even photos from the golf game directly on social media.
Ergonomically-shaped, heated seats would be adjusted electronically. An AIRSCARF neck-level heating system wraps the neck and shoulder area in warm air, keeping you comfortable even in cooler weather. There is also an integrated air-conditioning system, ensuring a pleasant ambience even on a very hot day.
Optional lightweight doors could be clicked-in to provide protection against wind and rain. A retractable lightning rod is included for added safety. In bright conditions the windscreen can be darkened at the touch of a button, while it also features windscreen wipers with rain sensors that activate as soon as it starts to rain.
The cart also features plenty of stowage space. Apart from the golf bag stowage area, there are two dashboard compartments, the centre console is also specially designed to accommodate golf balls scorecards, sunglasses, etc. There is a small fridge fitted beneath the centre console, while cup holders between the seats will keep drinks hot or cold. It would even have an illuminated vanity mirror.
The golf cart would also able to run on normal roads. The designers have, for example, included all the vital features such as indicators, headlamps and tail lights. Thanks to the LED headlamps, play can also continue when the light starts to fail, as they include a floodlight function.
While only in the design stage at the moment, there is no doubt that golfers across the world would eagerly anticipate it becoming a reality.
A four-time winner of the Australian Golf Media Awards, including Best Photojournalism, Best Opinion, Best Column and Best Photographic Presentation, Inside Golf Group Editor Richard Fellner is the quintessential Golf Tragic, having played the game for over 50 years (but has never gotten any better!) He has played and reviewed courses all over the world, and has interviewed many of the great players of the game (including Jack Nicklaus, Tom Watson and Greg Norman). Richard is a member of both the Australian Golf Media Association and the Golf Society of Australia, and has been a featured guest on many Australian "sports talk" radio shows and networks, including ABC Grandstand, SEN 1116, Melbourne Talk Radio 1377, 2GB and others.
Follow 
