Today Segway LLC released the Segway Golf Transporter (GT), a new personal transporter configured to give golf enthusiast a new way to cruise the course. With extended-range batteries, a golf bag carrier rack, enhanced traction tyres and a special software control-key, the Segway ® GT provides golfers with an opportunity to experience the game in a fun and unique way.
“The Segway GT makes the game even more fun for golfers,” said Klee Kleber, Segway’s vice president of marketing. “The agility and speed of the Segway GT allow the player to get to his or her ball quickly, speeding up the game and allowing more time to set up the shot. Plus the Segway GT is great fun to ride.”
The Segway GT is built upon the same design as the flagship I Series model and comes equipped with features to enhance the golf experience. It features new Saphion® lithium-ion batteries that, depending upon the terrain, provide a range of 10 to 14 miles on the course, more than enough for the typical 18 hole round of golf. When used on paved, flat surfaces the Segway GT riders will achieve a range of about 20 miles.
The golf bag carrier secures the golf bag to the side of the Segway GT and can be configured to sit to the right or left of the rider. Adjustable straps secure the bag to the carrier and can accommodate most golf bags. The carrier functions as a stand for the unit when it’s time to play, making it easy to access the clubs. A special intelligent key comes with the Segway GT to allow the unit to stay powered on while the rider takes his or her shot, allowing for quick mounting and dismounting.
Enhanced traction tyres come as standard and help the golfer over the varied landscape of the course. The tyres are made of a special compound and feature a unique tread, optimised to perform well on low-traction surfaces. The lightweight low-pressure pneumatic tyres (15 to 20 psi) are softer on course terrain than other vehicles traditionally used.
Using the Segway GT on the course makes for a unique experience. Since the platform is eight inches off the ground riders get a great view of the fairway. The Segway GT moves at two or three times walking speed and, like all units in the Segway product line, is zero emissions, almost silent and extremely energy efficient.
“Our evaluations of the Segway GT showed it to be an efficient, low-impact way to negotiate the golf course,” Kleber said. “The enhanced traction tyres, combine with the traction control in all Segway products, make little to no impact on the turf and the unique manoeuvrability of the Segway GT allows the rider to reach areas of the course that cannot be reached in a golf cart.”
The Segway GT will be available from April 2005 at authorized Segway dealerships in the US and Canada or direct from Segway LLC for the suggested retail price of $5,496. Segway products can also be purchased through international distributors Amazon.com and through Brookstones stores and catalogues.
Segway www.segway.com
Segway GT Specifications
Maximum speed: 12.5 mph
Carrying capacity: 260 pounds total
Footprint: 19″ x 25″
Weight: 95 pounds including golf carrier attachment
Battery type: two Saphion® lithium-ion batteries. On board recharging at any standard outlet. Charge cord included.
Battery range: 10-14 miles on course; 18-24 on paved, flat surfaces. Range depends on terrain, riding style and payload.
Motors: two brushless, DC servomotors
Wheels: 14″ glass-reinforced thermoplastic, with silver colour inserts
Tyres: 19″ tubeless, puncture-resistant made of a non-marking silica compound
Platform height: 8″
Clearance: 3‘6″
Display multicolour backlit LCD, shows battery charge and operating condition.
Special features: special software control key. Golf bag carrier attachment compatible with most standard golf bags
Limited warranty, parts: one year on major structural and electrical components, 90 days on wear items
Limited warranty, labour: one year on major structural and electrical components, 90 days on wear items