(Jan. 28, 2015) – The “internet of things” is quickly changing the golf and resort industries.
That change is led by GPS Industries (GPSI), the world’s leading provider of GPS tracking technology for low-speed vehicles, and Club Car, the world’s largest manufacturer of small four-wheel electric vehicles.
“Together we developed the Visage Mobile Golf Information System to help course operators monitor and control the location and status of golf cars and low-speed vehicles. It also lets them deliver course information, promotional messages and a superior golf experience,” says Michael T. Williams, business development and sales leader of vehicle connectivity at Club Car.
Extending Visage Beyond the Golf Course
Now GPSI and Club Car have expanded the system to a broader resort landscape with the introduction of the Visage Resort Edition, recently implemented at the Dominican Republic’s Casa de Campo Resort.
The system’s navigation tools, maps and two-way communication capabilities let the resort monitor, control and communicate with 80 four-passenger Club Car Villager 4 LSVs (low speed vehicles) across its 7,000-acre site. Used to transport guests, the street-legal vehicles feature best-in-class EFI engines as well as connectivity.
Another new platform , the Visage Media Network – connects an audience of golfers at courses worldwide, delivering featured content and letting golfers share user-generated messages, photos and videos via 10-inch color touchscreens. The system will soon allow guests to connect with their social and professional networks as well.
The Visage Media Network also generates revenue for Casa de Campo by promoting special events and off-site excursions. It even provides on-screen overviews of real estate for sale as a vehicle passes a listed property.
“The Visage Resort Edition will make it even easier for guests and residents to enjoy the unsurpassed amenities offered at our tropical playground,” says Peter Bonell, chief marketing officer at Casa de Campo. “The Visage Media Network’s capacity for revenue generation is also particularly enticing, as we will extend sponsorship opportunities to select, high-end local businesses wishing to reach our ultra-affluent guests and residents.”
The World’s First Connected Golf Car
The Visage Resort Edition evolved from the cloud-based Visage Mobile Golf Information System that’s integrated into Club Car’s new Precedent i3 golf car. The first golf car with build-in connectivity, it comes with a high-resolution, sealed on-board monitor.
Course operators use Visage to stay in touch with golfers, manage and protect their fleets, speed pace of play and market pro shop and restaurant items.
The system delivers vehicle status and service and fault notifications to the course’s Visage control center. And it enhances the golf experience by providing electronic scorecards, yardage books and three-dimensional views of each hole.
The Congressional Country Club, Trump National Doral Miami, several TPC clubs and other prestigious courses use the Precedent i3 and Visage.
“The Visage systems and Club Car’s connected vehicles are an affordable way for courses and resorts to boost their revenues, manage their fleets and improve the guest experience. And there’s more to come,” says Williams.
Club Car vehicles are sold through Authorized Club Car Dealers and Distributors. To find a dealer or distributor near you, visit www.clubcardealer.com.
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 Ingersoll Rand, and is based in Augusta, Ga. Visit www.clubcar.com.
