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The measure will allow PTVs that meet safety requirements to be driven on roads. That means residents of many communities will be able to shop, take their children to school and parks, and run other errands in their golf cars.

"This bill will allow Georgia families to stretch their transportation dollars and use green energy for miles of local driving. It also gives municipalities throughout the state a common framework for the safe and responsible use of PTVs," says Michael Alexander, Club Car's director of global business development. Club Car is the world's largest manufacturer of small-wheel, zero-emissions electric vehicles.

Qualifications and Safety Standards

To qualify as a PTV, vehicles must have at least four wheels, weigh 1,375 pounds or less, have a top speed of 20 mph or less, and transport no more than eight people.

In addition, they must be equipped with specific safety apparatus, including:

    --  A braking system that is sufficient for the weight and passenger
        capacity, including a parking brake.
    --  A reverse warning device that is functional at all times when the
        directional control is in the reverse position.
    --  A main power switch. When the switch is in the "off" position, or the
        key or other activating device is removed, the motive power circuit must
        be inoperative. If the switch uses a key, it can be removable only in
        the "off" position.
    --  Head and tail lamps
    --  Reflex reflectors
    --  A horn
    --  A rearview mirror
    --  Safety warning labels
    --  Hip restraints and hand holds

Golf cars manufactured after 2004 generally have all, or most, of the required safety equipment. Your local Club Car dealer can upgrade your golf car to meet these standards, if needed. To find a dealer near you, visit www.clubcar.com and click "Dealer Locator."

According to Alexander, who also serves as president of the National Golf Car Manufacturers Association, he and other members will work with leaders of the Georgia Municipal Association to draft a model ordinance that defines licensing and usage guidelines. Please check with your municipality if you have questions about PTV usage in your community.

The bill does not apply to all-terrain vehicles or mobility aids, such as power wheelchairs and scooters.

About Club Car

Club Car, one of the most respected names in the golf industry, is the world's largest manufacturer of small-wheel, zero-emissions electric vehicles. The company's Precedent golf cars and Carryall Turf utility vehicles are integral to successful operations at thousands of courses around the world. The company also offers a complete line of new and used golf cars, XRT utility vehicles and street-legal, low-speed vehicles (LSVs) for personal use, all backed by Club Car's 50+ year legacy of superior design, manufacture and service.

Club Car is part of the Industrial Technology Sector of Ingersoll Rand, and is based in Augusta, Ga. Visit www.clubcar.com.

About Ingersoll-Rand

Ingersoll Rand Industrial Technologies provides products, services and solutions that enhance our customers' energy efficiency, productivity and operations. Our diverse and innovative products range from complete compressed air systems, tools and pumps to material and fluid handling systems and environmentally friendly microturbines. We also enhance productivity through solutions created by Club Car®, the global leader in golf and utility vehicles for businesses and individuals. Visit www.ingersollrand.com

Contact: Mary A. Sicard, Consumer Marketing Manager706.228.7136 mary.sicard@clubcar.com

SOURCE Club Car