Problem: Accessing a site by public road usually requires a truck or van.
Solution: A low speed vehicle allows for street legal transportation using a utility cart.
At a large facility, such as a university or resort, the grounds may be spread out and connected only by a series of private and public roadways. A utility vehicle (like a golf cart) can be used, but traveling on public roadways is usually off limits for this mode of transportation, creating a predicament for facility managers (fms) and their crews. This problem is most often avoided by purchasing a truck or work van, which has a limited use for the facility and generates higher costs through fueling and maintenance.
There are also environmental issues. Fms are being charged with looking for alternatives that don't rely on traditional fuel consumption sources or generate high emissions. This is in addition to the common mandate to conserve energy overall. A vehicle emits not just air pollution, but also noise, sometimes disrupting activities in the area, which can be bothersome at schools, offices, or parks.
Club Car has been developing utility vehicles since 1979 but has been part of the industry since 1958 when it began producing golf carts. Based in Augusta, GA, the company came up with the first CarryAll 2 model over 20 years ago. Over time, the company has altered the vehicle's design to include more options, strength, and an attachment system.
In the last few years, the car's power design has shifted to electric and currently uses the IQ Plus power and operating system. The vehicles are now customizable, so the user can change such settings as top speed, acceleration, and motor braking. The latest development is an AC electric drive system that has finally made it possible to drive the CarryAll on public roads, as long as it is permissible by local government regulations.
Most locations allow low speed vehicles (LSV) to travel on roads with a posted speed limit of 35 MPH or less, as long as the LSV is licensed and insured. If this is the case, an fm or crew could use electric transportation from point to point rather than driving a truck or van.
Club Car (part of Ingersoll Rand) makes two types of electric LSVs-the CarryAll 2 and the CarryAll 6. The bed size is the major difference between the two. The cargo box bed length of the CarryAll 2 is shorter by 21.7" while the width is larger by 4.7" and taller by about 1.6".
The flat bed is larger on the CarryAll 6 model, (67.6" x 44.2"), and the load capacity can take 1,000 pounds, as opposed to the CarryAll 2's 800 pounds. Other than size, the two LSVs have similar features.
Each makes use of a 48 volt shunt/sepex drive motor to reach speeds from five to 25 MPH. CarryAlls boast 3.7 horsepower at 3400 RPM and use its electrical system takes advantage of the eight six-volt batteries. These batteries have a 115 minute charge at 75 amps. The charger for the battery is automatic and computer controlled.
The frame is of an aluminum I-beam, which is stronger than a steel frame. The front of the LSVs are constructed of ArmorFlex®. This comes in a myriad of colors, but the standard is dark gray. The front and rear suspensions use leaf springs with dual hydraulic shocks. The leaf springs are independent on the front.
Overall the weight of the CarryAll 2 without batteries is 767 pounds, and the CarryAll 6 is 743 pounds. The ground clearance is typically 4.5", but this depends on the amount of weight added.
CarryAlls come with a number of options, such as an electric bed lift, toolbox compartment, stake side kit, hour meter, dump cart, cab heater/defroster, safety lights, a van box (also industrial van box), and a trailer hitch, which is standard on the 2 but not the 6 model.
Because they do not have an exhaust system, CarryAlls give off little noise, making it easier to travel from site to site without disrupting those nearby. CarryAlls can transport people or equipment. There is seating for two people. Additionally, the LSVs are low maintenance and come with a standard two year warranty.
CarryAlls also come as fuel powered models for those fms seeking vehicles with a bit more power (11.5 horsepower). Other models are available with each suited for a different purpose.
Operating a large facility requires fms to reach every site on the grounds. Being street legal in most municipal areas, CarryAll vehicles allow for access to these locations without the need for a work vehicle that uses fossil fuel. This adds up to less carbon emissions and fewer gas purchases. Grounds crew vehicles are no longer fuel powered; they ride on electric waves.