Trading horsepower for happiness
8/5/2026
This Cars in the City column typically spotlights the latest luxury SUVs and sporty sedans and highlights their many features.
This month, I’m behind the wheel of something different. This vehicle doesn’t offer zero-60 mph acceleration in 5 seconds, cooling seats or adaptive cruise control. But, it costs significantly less and can be found only on side streets, campgrounds, small communities, fairgrounds and golf courses.
I took a spin on a low speed vehicle (LSV) cart, more commonly known as an electric golf cart.
LSVs are unique and aren’t actually golf carts. LSV carts are street-legal motor vehicles and are built according to federal standards. Just like a regular vehicle, LSVs include a VIN (vehicle identification number) that is licensed by the Iowa DOT.
Because of safety features, Iowa law states that LSVs can be driven on any street with a posted speed limit of 35 mph or less. A city may ban unregistered golf carts; however, they can’t stop state-licensed LSVs from using the public street. LSVs follow all traffic rules and can only be driven by a licensed driver age 16 years and older.
Todd Wilson, with EZip-N-Zoom, is passionate about educating the public about LSV usage and Iowa regulations. He says, “LSVs have the right to be on any Iowa road.”
I test drove a Vcarts Eco 6. The “6” stands for six passengers. Other brands and models also come in four- and eight-seaters. The Vcarts offers many safety features — three-point seatbelts, mirrors, turn signals, headlights and a push-button start. I was surprised to see a backup camera and a built-in stereo. Passenger amenities include a USB charging port and cup holders. Need more room? Fold down the back seats. The lockable storage areas can be used as coolers or as other flex space.
It was super easy to get in and out. With no bulky door, drivers don’t need to navigate their knees under the steering wheel. The padded seats are unexpectedly comfortable. Drivers do need both feet to drive, as the left foot depresses the parking brake.
The cart is quiet. With an all-electric motor, it’s easy to carry on a conversation or listen to nature. It’s an overall simple vehicle. It’s easy to steer, to make sharp turns and to park, although car owners might grumble about how a little cart takes up a large parking spot.
These carts are fun, effortless and easy to drive. They provide an open air feel without the loud engine of a convertible or a motorcycle.
The maximum speed is about 25 mph. If you see one going faster, it has most likely been modified by the owner. However, modifying one to go faster can remove the legal definition of an LSV.
The lithium ion battery doesn’t require a different voltage to plug in like electric cars. Just plug it into a regular outlet, as you would for any appliance. A charge lasts 40-50 miles. There’s no gas to put in and little maintenance or upkeep.
The Vcarts Eco 6 cost $11,500. You can spend extra bucks for upgrades like special lighting, arm rests, weather enclosures, custom paint and more.
Golf carts were once considered a way to get from one tee box to the next. With today’s LSVs, they have evolved into practical and fun vehicles. ♦
Jackie Wilson has written hundreds of articles for CITYVIEW and the Iowa Living magazines. She covers ordinary people living extraordinary lives.
