Golf Carting Magazine Issue 30 November 2022

Happy Thanksgiving from Golf Carting Magazine

lottery. This is still the greatest nation in the world.

Golf Carting Magazine would like to wish all our readers and sponsors a very Happy Thanksgiving this year. There is a lot to be thankful for. The pandemic seems to be in the rearview mirror, although there are many people who are still being impacted by it. We live in a country that is faced with many challenges, but every fortunate U.S. citizen should feel as if they’ve won the ultimate

Golf Carting Magazine is thankful for our readers. We appreciate the support and the positive feedback. You are why this magazine exists and we can’t thank you enough.

We are also thankful to our advertisers who are tremendously loyal. We are honored to partner with you and are grateful for the many relationships that we have garnered over the last few years.

As we enter the Holiday Season (where did the year go?) we want to let you know just how much we appreciate the support we receive for this magazine. We wish everyone a safe, enriching, family-centered holiday season this year!

Enjoy this November 2022 edition of Golf Carting Magazine.

GOLF CARTING // Issue 30 // November 2022

Publisher: GC Media Group, LLC

Senior Editor: Trevor Rose - trevor@golfcarting.com

Creative Director: Troy Merrifield - troy@golfcarting.com Graphic Designer: Tanner Merrifield

Production Director: Christian Amico - chris@golfcarting.com

Staff Writer: Kelly Madden

Staff Writer: Josh Delsota

Staff Writer / Social Media: Tony Benjamin

Golf Carting® is published monthly by GC Media Group, LLC. Reprinting in whole or by any means- electronic, graphic or mechanical, including photocopying or information storage and retrieval systems is forbidden without written permission from the publisher.

Advertising opportunities and inquiries to: chris@golfcarting.com

Editorial contributions are welcomed, but editors recommend that contributors contact us first. Contribution must be accompanied by return postage, and we assume no responsibility for damage or loss of material. Manuscripts must be typewritten, and all photos have to have captions. Photo model releases of all people in photos must accompany manuscript. GOLF CARTING reserves the right to use material, and we reserve the right to edit material to meet publication requirements. E-mail contributions or inquiries to: trevor@golfcarting.com

WARNING: Certain action photographs depicted in this magazine are potentially dangerous. The drivers and vehicle occupants seen in our photos are experienced professionals. Do not attempt to duplicate any stunts. Wear a helmet and safety restraints while operating a Golf Cart, and never drive beyond your capabilities. Do not drink and drive while operating a Golf Cart. We also encourage you to “Tread Lightly” while respecting the outdoors and other outdoor enthusiasts. Use your head and enjoy the ride!

©2022 GC Media Group, LLC

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ALLIED BATTERY EXPANDING OPERATIONS WITH NEW WAREHOUSE IN TAMPA, FL

Allied Battery, the manufacturer of Allied “Commercial” and “Drop-in-Ready” Lithium Batteries, is expanding operations by opening a new location in Tampa, FL.

The Tampa facility will store the High Performance “Commercial” 48V 65AH, 105AH and 155AH along with the full line of “Drop-in-Ready” products. Allied dealers will have access to the new location for local pickup and will drastically shorten lead times for LTL shipping across the Southeast Region.

“We are very excited about the new Tampa location. This will provide our Southeast partners convenient access to the full line of Allied Products.” – Art Porter SE Regional Manager

Allied is also expanding operations to other key areas in California and Texas by end of 2023.

FREE SHIPPING TO YOUR STORE

Because of how safe LifePO4 batteries are, FedEx and UPS have approved them for both air and ground shipping.

The “Commercial” line includes free shipping on any order

of 6 or more. They ship LTL and are crated securely to ensure they arrive in perfect condition.

All “Drop-in-Ready” batteries ship free to your door in the continental U.S.

NATIONAL SALES SUPPORT

Allied has a dedicated in-house support team as well as a national sales organization to support and work directly with the dealer network. No more texting and emailing oversees companies and waiting answers. Dealers expect timely and quality support for which Allied is proud to provide.

SUMMARY

Many dealers have experienced the reliability and power of Allied Battery. By offering the “Commercial” and “Drop-inReady” lines, Allied is positioned to be your single source for lithium batteries. Please visit AlliedLithium.com or call (800) 625-5110 for more info.

NEW SOUNDBAR MOUNTING BRACKETS BY ECOXGEAR

ECOXGEAR’s new V4 universal mounting brackets are designed to fit almost any golf cart in the market. The T bracket design with screw spacing from 3.5” to 4.25” has endless mounting options, will work on both front and rear factory struts, and most golf cart tops with metal tracks or bracing. With adjustable slots, the V4 mounting brackets are compatible with ECOXGEAR’s SE18, SE26, SEB26, and SEDS32 soundbars.

Universal Mounting fit has been tested and confirmed on the following carts: Club Car, Yamaha, Icon, StarEV, Excar, Bintelli, Revo, Royal, Vivid, E-Z-GO (4/6 passengers but only directly in front of the rear struts with the Eagle top).

BRACKET KITS INCLUDE:

• T shaped mounting brackets

• 8 screws and washers to mount to speaker

• Installation guide

*If the screw spacing of the roof strut’s two bolts are 3.5" to 4.25" apart, this bracket should be a fit.

ABOUT ECOXGEAR:

Based in San Diego, California, ECOXGEAR is the leader in rugged, portable, and waterproof audio solutions catering to the outdoor world. ECOXGEAR’s offers a variety of lifestyle audio solutions for snow, powersports, campers, and overall outdoor enthusiasts. Each of its innovative products support true IP66/IP67 waterproof standards and exceed military specifications 810G. Check out ECOXGEAR’s growing line of portable audio solutions, battery management, and solar power solutions at www.ecoxgear.com.

Drop-In” Power for your Golf Cart

Based in St. Louis, MO, the Allied Lithium Battery company has mastered the art of creating the ideal lithium battery for easy, drop-in installation and designed to fit virtually any golf cart brand and model.

Allied is a division of Doorworks Enclosures, manufacturer of an extensive line of golf and other utility vehicle covers and enclosures for more than twenty years. The company employs about twenty people on their team. They have a wide network across the U.S. and Canada of more than 1,000 authorized dealers and Allied’s full sales and support staff devotes their

attention to making sure their dealers have the help they need when it comes to their products.

The entire line of Allied Lithium batteries is crafted using LifePO4 lithium chemistry, which when combined with their battery management system create the safest battery on the market. The batteries are enclosed in a sealed, noncombustible, non-flammable casement, and require absolutely no maintenance. A dealer can now convert a golf cart over to the Allied Lithium system in about thirty minutes.

Allied Lithium Battery uses their high volume production to realize significant cost savings over some other lithium batteries on the market, and these high performance power sources last considerably longer than lead acid batteries, resulting in an overall more economic purchase over the life of the battery.

Brett Clayton is a long-time sales representative for Allied Lithium Batteries and says the need for a better lithium golf cart battery is behind the 2018 launch of the new company. “Company founder, Craig Guempel, felt there was a unmet need in the marketplace for a premium quality, long lasting lithium battery and set out to create a product to meet his exacting standards,” Clayton said. “All of our batteries are engineered and designed in our St. Louis plant using our exclusive technology and then undergo rigorous quality testing to ensure peak performance.”

One of Allied Battery’s most notable dealer – partners is Five Star Golf Cars, based in Tampa, Florida. Five Star is a familyowned company that designs and builds premium golf carts designed with only the top-of-the-line components, which is

why the company uses Allied’s lithium batteries for their vehicles. Five Star built the Allied-powered cart shown in this article and can complete a custom cart in about three weeks. They make the entire cart buying experience an easy, hassle-free process, ship carts nationwide and feature the Navitas® Storm line of premium golf cars and multi-passenger neighborhood cruisers.

PREMIUM LITHIUM BATTERIES FOR ANY APPLICATION

Allied makes their lithium batteries for any golf cart manufacturer and model to easily convert any 24V, 36V or 72V lead acid system in their drop-in installation process. They also make a line of Commercial Lithium batteries in 48V 65AH, 48V 105AH and 48V 155AH sizes, available exclusively through their dealer network and often used for vehicle fleets. They also offer a comprehensive line of accessories and components like 12V to 72V waterproof chargers made for compatibility with any cart brand, and waterproof, stepdown voltage converters to allow users to operate low voltage accessories like their sound system or lights with their Allied lithium battery.

Allied makes a full line of lithium batteries for all types of ATVs, UTVs, recreational vehicles to run air conditioning and other accessories, marine use like for trolling motors, and even solar storage applications. The key benefits of installing Allied Lithium batteries are run times up to three times longer than a traditional battery, 3,500 charging cycles over the battery’s lifetime, half the weight of a lead acid battery, and absolutely zero maintenance. The batteries are also backed by an 8-year warranty.

Clayton said the company is continually introducing new, innovative products to their line, a big part of Guempel’s vision to stay on top of the industry. “We know that our customers want exceptional performance and quality from our products, and our entire team is focused on staying ahead of the curve when it comes to bringing new, high-performing products to the marketplace.”

Allied Lithium Batteries has over 650 certified reviews on their website at www.alliedbattery.com, and their future is powered by the passion to create the ultimate in golf cart and other batteries. For information on becoming an authorized Allied dealer, call (800) 625-5110.

S LOOKING FOR SOLID REVENUE GROWTH?

BECOME A CERTIFIED

Sales for lithium-ion golf car batteries are growing around the globe, and Trojan Battery Company has launched a program that helps you leverage that growth.

Known as the Authorized Trojan Lithium-Ion Dealer Program, it enables you to partner with the worldwide leader in deep-cycle battery technology and possibly enjoy solid revenue growth.

Renowned for our maroon-colored batteries, Trojan brings almost 100 years of experience to every battery we manufacture. And our deep infrastructure simplifies every step of the dealer and customer experience.

Trojan started this program when we launched our GC2 48-V Lithium-Ion Battery (https://www.trojanbattery.com/) because lithium-ion technology is relatively new to golf and personal transportation vehicles. The program is designed to educate dealers on our products, prepare them to answer customers’ questions, and limit phone tag and miscommunications.

To join the program, visit the Trojan Authorized Dealer Landing Page and click “apply today.”

After being approved as an Authorized Dealer, you can complete an online training program and earn the title “Authorized Trojan Lithium-Ion Dealer.” You’ll gain full access to the Authorized Trojan Dealer Portal.

The portal offers a library with information on all Trojan batteries, not just our GC2 48V Lithium-Ion Battery. It provides:

• Professional, downloadable ads, and other sales materials

• Operating, maintenance, and installation guides

• Specification and data sheets

• Sales and training videos

• Warranties

• White papers

• Much more

You’ll be able to download digital banners for your website, access informative maintenance and installation materials, learn the fine points of selling Trojan products, and more. And you’ll have access to live technical support through our U.S.-based Customer

Service line. It’s staffed with battery experts including representatives dedicated to lithium-ion technology.

As an Authorized Trojan Lithium-Ion Dealer, you’ll be positioned to attract our large and growing base of dedicated customers across all battery categories. And our knowledgeable regional sales managers will help you grow your business.

Apply today! https://www.trojanbattery.com/authorized/

Partner with Trojan, a Complete Battery Solutions Provider

At Trojan, we offer the full range of energy-storage solutions -- flooded lead-acid, lithium-ion, AGM, and gel batteries – so you can help your customers meet their individual needs with quality products and services.

TIRES : PICKING THE BEST OPTION FOR YOUR NEEDS

Buying a new set of tires for your golf cart or utility vehicle involves the same process as buying tires for your car. There are just as many, if not more, tire manufacturers for golf carts as there are for automobiles, so you should do your homework to find the best tire option meant for the way you use your cart. It’s possible to go to the extreme when you don’t really require a premium tire, and also to underestimate the use your

cart tires get and ending up with an inferior tire to meet your needs.

Whether you have a cart that you use to get around your subdivision and get to the club to play a round of golf, a streetlegal cart that you use to get to the grocery store or go out for a bite to eat, like in places like The Villages in central Florida, or a weekend warrior meant for use on tough terrain, the specific

tire you select can make a big difference in how your cart rides and performs.

We’re going to look at golf tires only for now, not including the wheels. Wheels today come in a huge variety of sizes and styles, from basic golf cart rims to premium, custom wheels that make your cart a visual masterpiece. The size of your wheels is the first consideration, of course, but even with that in mind, there are a lot of options out there from which to choose. There are tires for carts of a standard height and tires for lifted carts.

If you play golf on a home course that has drastic elevation differences or play when the grass is a little wet in the early mornings, you may be happier with a tire with a bit more bite than an entry-level cart tire. If you have a neighborhood cruiser, sometimes called a Personal Transportation Vehicle or PTV, you may select a lower-profile style of tire. Taking the family to the beach or weekend hunting cabin requires a more robust, all terrain tread design to get through sand, gravel, or dirt trails.

SIZES, STYLES AND SPECIFICATIONS

In selecting tires for a standard golf cart – no matter what model or brand – you’ll find most carts come with 8”, 10” or 12” diameter wheels, with a few 14” on the market.

To understand what the numbers mean when selecting golf cart tires, you need to know that the first number represents the width of the tire, in millimeters, measured from side-toside. The second number is the aspect ratio, or the sidewall height of the tire from the wheel to the top of the tire. The larger the aspect ratio number, the wider the tire’s sidewall “profile” will be. This number is actually a percentage of the tire’s width. So if a tire has an aspect ratio of 50, the side profile height will be half of the tire’s width, which is most commonly 215 or 205 on golf carts. This comes into play when you are shopping for a low-profile tire for your street cart. The last number is the diameter of the wheel the tire is to be mounted on, like 8”, 10”, 12”, etc.

There are often letters before the diameter number and this indicates the type of tire construction. R means it is a radial tire, and yes, they do manufacture those for golf carts. If the tires you’re looking at don’t have a letter in front of the diameter number, they are likely standard, 4-ply construction. There are also Department of Transportation, (DOT), -approved tires which are legal to use on the street.

Here is a look at some of the most popular cart tires in different categories.

NON-LIFTED CARTS FOR GOLF & COMMUNITY USE

DELI 215/50-12 COMFORTRIDE DOT APPROVED TIRES

This is a good example of a standard golf cart tire. The tread design is fairly typical, set in a slightly diagonal pattern. It is a “non-directional” tire, meaning it can be mounted on either side of the cart, and it’s made of a 4-ply construction process. Meant for typical cart use like playing 18 holes or driving around your gated community, the sidewall width is a little more than 4”. The tire height from the top of the tire to the ground is 20.5”. This tire is DOT-approved, meant for any 12”

wheel, and they cost around $85.00-$100.00 each, depending on the supplier.

ARISUN 215/35-12 DOT TIRES - LOW PROFILE

If you’re looking for a tire with less of a side aspect ratio or lower profile, this option is a good choice. The overall height of this tire from top to the ground is 18”, they’re DOT-approved and made with a 4-ply rating. They provide a good grip even on surfaces like wet grass and give your cart a bit of a custom appearance. These tires sell for around $80.00 each and will fit any 12” wheel.

golfcarttraction

EXCEL GTX 18X8.50-8" DOT SAWTOOTH TIRES

For the budget-conscious buyer with 8” wheels found on some older cart models, this is an excellent tire choice. Sturdy and long-lasting 4-ply construction and a tread design perfect for use on turf, the tire is DOT-approved and will mount on any cart manufacturer’s 8” rims. These tires can be found for around $50.00 to $70.00.

KENDA LOADSTAR 205/65-10 DOT TIRES

Another good option for lifted cart owners who want a slightly lower sidewall profile, this tire measures 20.5” from top to ground. It is DOT-approved, 4-ply construction and features a slightly more aggressive tread pattern for extra grip and performance on wet grass. These tires retail for around $85.00 to $100.00 each.

LIFTED CARTS

WANDA 23X10-12" DOT STREET CRUZ TIRES

These are a very popular tire choice for carts used in communities or on the streets, and Wanda is a well-respected manufacturer. This tire is 23” from top to the ground, made of 4-ply construction and also carries a higher load rating than other tires for carrying 4 passengers or larger cargo loads. It is DOT-approved, fits all 12” golf cart wheels and sell for around $100.00 to $120.00 each.

If you prefer a radial tire for your cart, this option is an excellent choice. The bold tread pattern and radial construction provide a smooth ride on the street or golf course. This tire measures 23” tall from top to ground, is DOTapproved and carries an impressive load capacity of 800 lbs. at 20psi. Radial tires generally have a longer tread life and provide less rolling resistance, so that is something to consider when selecting tires. These tires run around $100.00 to $135.00 each.

golfcarttraction

ALL TERRAIN CART TIRES

WANDA 20X10-10 DOT ALL TERRAIN TIRES

If you use your cart at your hunting cabin or campground, this is an excellent choice in all terrain tires. This particular tire is DOT-approved, unlike some other all terrain tires. The height is 20” from top to ground, but they may require a lift kit on your cart to allow adequate clearance because of the bold tread pattern. This tire is ideal for dirt and gravel trails and roads, soft surfaces, or deep grass. This tire retails for around $70.00 to $90.00 each.

MJFX (MADJAX) RAPTOR 20X10-10 MUD TIRES

If you’re deep outdoors and off the beaten path in your cart, these are the tires for you. Featuring a very aggressive, deep tread design and an overall height of 20” top to ground, the tires carry an 800-lb load rating. Some carts may require the installation of a lift kit or other minor modifications to accommodate the brawny tread profile, but you’ll assure yourself of limiting the risk of getting stuck on a muddy trail. These tires retail starting at approximately $200.00 each for the 14” size and go up from there.

WHEN THE RUBBER MEETS THE ROAD…

Selecting the correct tire for the way you use your cart is not a simple task. You need to research the different manufacturers and models they sell, talk with your friends on the course about their selection and why they chose them, and check with your favorite cart sales or service outlet.

The right tire can make a big difference in the ride of your cart, just like in your car, and you need to be careful to get what you pay for, especially if you spend a lot of time in your cart.

Strange as it may sound, flooded lead-acid batteries are somewhat like plants. They need to be charged just as plants need to be fertilized. They need to be watered but not overwatered. They are affected by the temperature, and they need careful monitoring during dormant periods. Further, neglect and mistakes can damage or even kill them.

Trojan Battery Company experts suggest steps you can take to prevent damaging your flooded lead-acid battery.

You probably know how important it is to properly maintain your flooded lead-acid battery. But you may not know the common maintenance mistakes that may damage or even destroy it. Yet knowing what NOT to do to your battery is as important as knowing what to do.

Many of these missteps occur around charging, watering, or storing. What’s more, the temperature can affect the battery's performance and maintenance needs and must be considered during these functions. See your user’s guide for more information about temperature compensation.

AVOID THESE CHARGING ERRORS

Proper charging is a key to battery performance and longevity, but it is something of a balancing act. Both underand over-charging can reduce the performance and life of your battery.

• If possible, use an automatic charger that’s pre-programmed

for your battery. Otherwise, make sure the charger is set to the appropriate program for a deep-cycle flooded lead-acid battery.

• Do not charge the battery unless the electrolyte covers the plates.

• Fully charge the battery before watering.

• Don’t forget to return your battery to a full state of charge after each use of 30 minutes or more. Remember to account for the cumulative times of shorter discharges as well.

• Limit the discharges to 50% or less for extended life and performance, if possible.

• Don’t forget to top off the charge every few weeks while the battery is not used for long periods.

• Never charge a frozen battery and avoid charging one at temperatures above 122o F (50o C). Remember, the warmer it

is, the more frequently you’ll need to charge your battery.

AVOID THESE WATERING ERRORS

Watering is also a balancing act, as both under- and overwatering can harm your flooded lead-acid battery.

The frequency of watering depends on usage, charging, operating temperature, and age of the batteries. Batteries need more water as they age and in hot weather. Underwatering is one of the most common causes of battery damage.

TO FIND YOUR SWEET SPOT:

• Don’t water uncharged batteries, except to bring the electrolyte level above the tops of the plates before charging. Fully charge the battery before adding water.

• Never let the electrolyte level fall beneath the top of the plates. This can irreparably damage your battery and prevent charging.

• Don’t neglect your batteries. Check levels and fill at regular

intervals and, when needed, add water to the level indicated in your Users’ Guide.

• Do not use tap or well water. Use distilled or deionized water.

• Don’t discount the effect of heat on watering. In warmer weather, or during times of high usage, you’ll need to check and water your batteries more frequently than in cooler weather. See your user’s guide for details.

• Never fill the batteries above the maximum level indicated in your user’s guide.

AVOID THESE STORAGE ERRORS

Inappropriate storage of your vehicle can also damage the battery. To prevent this:

• Never store vehicles with discharged batteries. Fully charge them before storage.

• Don’t forget to disconnect any equipment that may discharge the battery, including the charger unless it has a maintenance mode that will maintain the charge during storage.

• Don’t store your car in very hot or wet locations or near direct heat sources.

• Don’t store your car and forget it. Monitor the specific gravity or open-circuit voltage of stored flooded lead-acid batteries every four to six weeks and charge them when the state of charge falls below 70%.

• Don’t underestimate the effects of extreme temperatures on

stored batteries.

Batteries stored in high temperatures will discharge faster, so they need to be checked more frequently. For example, at 90°F (32°C), you will need to check the state of charge or specific gravity every 2-4 weeks.

If possible, avoid storing your flooded lead-acid batteries in freezing temperatures. Batteries can freeze in cold temperatures if they are not fully charged. If you do store your batteries at temperatures below 32°F (0o C) keep them at a high state of charge as noted in your user’s guide.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Refer to your user’s guide for more information on your flooded lead-acid batteries. Take temperature changes into account and understand the things you should avoid. After a while, you’ll develop a rhythm around maintenance just as you have around plant care.

Simplify Battery Watering with Hydrolink™ Single-Point Watering System

Trojan’s Hydrolink Single-Point Watering System simplifies and shortens the watering process to under a minute and helps prevent costly watering mistakes. Designed specifically for Trojan batteries it features an independent water-level indicator that tells you whether your batteries need watering or not. An automatic shut-off valve controls the electrolyte level in each cell to further prevent damage.

DISCLAIMER

This is not a guide to battery charging. It is intended, instead, to prevent common mistakes that can damage batteries. See your user’s guide for full instructions on charging and watering your flooded lead-acid battery.

What’s The Best Choice for You?

Whether you’re a weekend golfer or the person charged with buying an entire fleet of golf carts, the decision of choosing gas or electric powered vehicles deserves serious consideration before pulling the trigger.

The recent advancement of lithium-ion battery technology has caused a debate as to whether that is the future of power supply for golf, personal transportation, and commercial utility vehicles, or are gas powered vehicles still a viable option in today’s marketplace.

Today’s current gas prices may make you think twice about which type of vehicle you choose, but there are many other factors that you may want to consider before deciding.

POWER TO THE WHEELS – HOW YOUR USE YOUR CART

The primary consideration for choosing a gas or electric cart is how you intend to use it. If you play 18 holes a couple times a week or need a vehicle that can tow heavy loads or transport people on a large property, these are keys to selecting the right power supply for you.

If noise is a factor, clearly an electric vehicle will be your

choice. Gas-powered engines create more sound than an electric cart, so you should be prepared to learn the differences between the two options. The environmental ramifications of a gas cart are also more serious than with an electric cart, with emissions that adversely affect the earth’s ecology. If you care about the planet and how gas-powered vehicles can harm the environment, an electric cart makes more sense.

On the plus side, gas-powered carts have a reputation for sending more raw power to the wheels, and don’t present the problem of losing power over the course of their use. If you’re buying a cart for a commercial or industrial application, farming, or ranching, hunting or other heavy-duty use, gas may be your best choice.

When it comes to maintaining your cart, gas and electric vehicles each have items to keep in mind for hassle-free enjoyment and efficiency. A gas cart, just like a car, requires regular maintenance like oil and filter servicing, and of course adding gas when the tank runs low. Savvy cart buyers will factor in the projected cost of gas over the lifetime of their vehicle and compare them with costs related to charging and

replacing a battery system, either lithium ion or the traditional, lead acid-based type.

BIG BUSINESS, BIG DECISION

Golf carts and personal transportation vehicles of all types represent a rapidly growing market that is once again seeing solid gains.

Because of the COVID19 pandemic, golf courses were closed for an extended period, causing a decline in the demand for golf carts, either gas or electric. Yet the North American market alone is a $1.3 billion dollar industry as of 2020, with approximate unit sales of 120,000. Worldwide, that number is considerably higher. The market is anticipating a CAGR, (Compound Annual Growth Rate), of over 4% between now and 2027.

Today, the price that suppliers, refineries, and consumers pay for gas is of great concern for people around the world. Many feel that the conflict between Russia and the Ukraine is the cause, or some other politically based hypothesis. But the Chief Economic Strategist for Gas Buddy points out that the real cause of paying more at the pump is COVID19, when the country and economy were shut down. There was a huge decrease in the number of people buying gas, so suppliers

reduced their production. Then the country began to demand more gas once they were allowed out of the house and to get to work, and supply could not keep up with the increase in demand.

That’s why gas prices are so volatile right now. What that uncertainty will do to the market for gas-powered carts is unclear at this time.

Whether you run the fleet purchasing operation at a major high-end golf club or are considering getting a personal cart to either play golf or cruise through your community or neighborhood, choosing gas or electric can be a little confusing.

IS THERE A FUTURE FOR GAS CARTS?

There are notable and significant industry experts who feel the future of gas-powered golf and utility vehicles is in jeopardy of extinction.

Global Market Insights, (GMI), publishes detailed statistics covering a wide range of industries that include trends, projections, and summaries on just about every aspect of a specific business market. Their recent report on the Golf Cart Market is based on historical data from 2017 to 2027.

The authors say there is an increased demand for electric-

powered carts and personal transportation vehicles, projecting a 3.5% market growth rate by 2027. Things like an increased awareness of environmental and pollution issues, quieter motors, an uptick in the advancement of batteries and charging capabilities, less maintenance and operational costs all add up to a preference in EVs.

Of course, the current uncertainty in the price of gasoline also plays a factor in individual decisions by consumers and fleet managers as to choosing gas or electric vehicles. Coupled with the decreasing costs associated with new lithium-ion battery technology and manufacturing, electric vehicles are quickly becoming more affordable than when first introduced.

The GMI report also states that many leading cart manufacturers are focusing on innovations and advancements in the EV sector, citing the 2021 release of Polaris Industries’ GEM premium electric golf cart. Polaris is among the majority of top cart brands that is seeing an increased demand in high-end, street legal electric vehicles for use in residential golf and country club communities, at a beachfront resort or exploring the great outdoors. The trend is leading away from gas-powered vehicles.

According to GMI, the revenue generated by the sale of gas-powered golf carts in 2020 was 38.3%, and for electric carts it was 61.4%. The statistics point to a strong trending for the future of electric powered golf carts and other vehicles. There is a small sector of the market focused on solar powered golf carts, but the numbers are under 1.5% as of 2020. This segment of the market is also projected to expand in the future.

An unofficial phone survey of 11 upscale golf clubs in Florida found the statistics were relatively accurate. 7 of the clubs reported their fleet of carts were electric, citing less maintenance, lower operational costs, noise level and environmental concerns. 2 clubs were using gas carts but indicated they would be looking closely at both options when their fleet next needed updating. 1 club said they were not anticipating a change to electric carts in the near future but were closely monitoring the evolution of the lithium-ion battery advancements and costs.

IT'S ALL IN HOW YOU USE IT

While electric powered carts and UTVs are showing more popularity, a gas-powered cart still may be the best choice for some uses.

If you need a longer range, can’t rely on a charging system where you’re going, need to haul large loads or tow a trailer over rough terrain and uphill trails, a gas vehicle may be the better choice, especially if noise is not a factor. A gas cart will usually cost a bit more than an electric version of the same model, not to mention the cost of gas.

Electric battery power is making big strides in areas like top speed, battery run time, charging capabilities and overall life expectancy, all of which is driving the costs down in the high-tech lithium-ion battery market.

Based on your plans for how you’ll be using your cart, doing your research on the pros and cons of each power type is the best way to make sure you make the right choice for your specific needs.

OWNER: LEE BUNN FROM AUBREY TX OF BIG BAD CARTS, LLC YEAR/MAKE/MODEL: 2006 E-Z-GO TXT

LEE, CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THIS BUILD?

It's a 2022 fully refurbished 2006 from an E-Z-GO TXT chassis stripped down to metal and painted. Everything is new on this cart.

- Navitas 600A 5KW AC conversion

- Roypoy lithium 48v 105ah

- Jakes long travel lift kit

- Chrome Modz Fury wheels with 23" tires and 2" spacers on the rear

- Storm cement gray body kit

- Doubletake two tone seats

- Rear armrest cup holders

- Extended roof with rear support chopped to make level.

- Xtreme floor mats front and rear

- Ecoxgear 32" soundbar

- Underbody LED Lighting

- LED roof lighting with custom defuser.

- Carbon fiber dash

- Side mirrors with LED turn signals.

- Tinted windshield

WHAT AFTERMARKET PARTS DID YOU USE? MODZ Fury Wheels Jake's Long Travel Storm Body Kit Doubletake Roof Xtreme Mats Ecoxgear sound bar RoyPow Lithium Buggies Unlimited seat covers

GIVE US SOME BACKGROUND ABOUT YOU AND HOW LONG YOU HAVE BUILDING CARTS: We started build carts about 4 years ago when we moved into a golf cart community. Within the past 4 months we started Big Bad Carts and jumped right into the game and purchased a container of Navitas Chassis's.

WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE PLANS FOR YOU OR YOUR COMPANY? To build the bad ass carts and change the game. Manufacture parts and sell Parts that nobody else offers. We will continue to do this with my business partner Jason Carducci and Josh Wright who is a talented builder.

OWNER: Joseph Hebert from Dickinson, TX YEAR/MAKE/MODEL: 2016 Club Car Precedent

JOSEPH, COULD YOU TELL US ABOUT THIS BUILD?

I have owned at least a dozen carts, all cookie cutter stuff and some flips here and there. I told my wife I wanted to build one for us, the way I want from top to bottom. I ended up buying some parts without even having a cart. I got a donor cart from Ryan O’rear and stripped it down to the frame. After a lot of YouTube videos and help from Ryan, Pablo Escocart is born.

ARE THERE ANY CUSTOM FABRICATION OR CUSTOM MADE PARTS?

The frame is custom stretched 26” and powder coated -Converted to 4 bolt steering -Converted to 48-volt from 36 -Custom 1 piece aluminum floor pan -Custom rocker panel covers -Modified seat pod back rests brackets -Painted pod and roof to match body -SMV triangle hitch mount

WHAT AFTERMARKET PARTS DID YOU USE?

-Navitas 5KW A/C conversion -Madjax storm body -Jake’s long travel lift kit -25” GTW Barrage tires

-14” Modz Fury wheels

-Ausco rear disc brakes -Select seats custom seats -GTW Mach 3 rear seat -4) Kicker 45KM654’s -Kenwood KAC-M1824BT -MICtuning rock lights -Forever sharp billet

wheel

TELL US ABOUT YOU AND HOW LONG YOU HAVE BUILDING CARTS:

cart in

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WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE PLANS FOR YOU OR YOUR COMPANY?

plan on hanging onto

carts as I can.

carts.

Pablo for a long time, but continue to buy and

IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU'D LIKE TO ADD?

want to thank the guys at

else who

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Ryan and

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ASK THE MECHANICASK THE MECHANIC

Q: I want to upgrade my 36-volt cart to 48-volt, what will I need to do this?

A: Going from 36v to 48v will provide you with more power and range. First things first; you would need to get 8-volt batteries as well as a 48-volt charger. Keep in mind, you also may need to change your charging port to accept a different charger receptacle. Some motors will handle the extra voltage but to be safe, I highly recommend going with a 48v rated motor and controller combo. Brands like Curtis, Navitas and Alltrax manufacture upgraded controllers and Plum Quick, D&D, and White Lightening brands offer upgraded motors. Be sure to also upgrade your solenoid to 48v as well. It's a bit of a process to get everything changed over, but it certainly will be worth it in the long run.

Q: How do I install a lithium battery in place of my leadacids?

A: There are several choices as far as upgrading your leadacids to lithium. The main choice you must make is deciding between "drop in" style lithium which is the same as replacing the individual batteries but with lithium versions now. While these are generally easier to install, you will have to wire them exactly as your replaced ones. The alternative is to go with one big pack rather than individual batteries. These types can

give you extra space in your battery tray as they typically only use half the tray for installation. The manufacturer generally supplies brackets to mount the battery to and then you simply wire up your main positive and negative wires and your done for the most part. This way you eliminate the extra wires from the connection points going from one battery to the next. Either way you go, lithium is certainly an upgrade in many ways.

Q: What is the better option: on-board or off-board chargers?

A: The answer is both chargers have advantages. On-board chargers offer the convenience by always having the charger in the cart so you get more flexibility to where you can charge it with a simple extension cord. There is no charging receptacle used and the charger will have to be mounted securely in a space to which it will get enough airflow when charging. Off board chargers can be moved around and are able to be replaced much easier if in fact you need to replace a charger due to malfunctions. The good thing about off board chargers though is that they are not susceptible to being bounced around inside a cart nor exposed to the elements as much. Both have advantages over the other, but it comes down to what is most convenient for your purpose.