ELECTRIFIED FUN

Carolina Rides provides the ultimate pleasure trip with electric vehicles optimized for cruising island and downtown streets or navigating the waterways

by DANA W. TODD

Afew things can bum out a paddleboarder First, it takes too much time and energy to pump-inflate a board. Then, there is a question of whether the board is inflated to the correct pounds-per-square-inch (psi) so it will float properly for the entire trip. And nothing is more aggravating than the tide turning and thwarting efforts to return to home base.

Paddleboarders can now say goodbye to these challenges. Carolina Rides, known for its eco-friendly electric vehicles designed for having fun, has introduced SipaBoards to the Lowcountry. These powered stand-up paddleboards open up the market for even more people to enjoy one of the latest popular watersports.

“SipaBoards are self-inflating; no pumping is required,” says Jason Bullock of Carolina Rides. “A small motor that can be remotely controlled from the paddle inflates the board to the perfect psi—no guessing needed. That same multispeed motor can be turned on mid-trip to drive you forward if the tide or wind turns against you or if you just want to take a break from paddling and enjoy the ride. The motor’s battery is even small enough to travel on commercial flights so the SipaBoard can go with you on vacation.”

Three different board designs, LED lighting on the bottom of the boards for underwater effect at dusk, and a smartphone app for tracking the ride and controlling the board are features that make SipaBoards a standout for the paddleboarding crowd. SipaBoards provide exercise for the body and soul while allowing exploration of the rivers and creeks in the Charleston area. Paddleboarders can try them out at Charleston SUP Safaris on Folly Beach or by checking the dealer locator on the company’s website.

The fun doesn’t stop with paddleboards; after all, Carolina Rides is known for electrifying fun in all kinds of ways. The company sells four popular electric vehicles for traveling around town or on nearby waters. On the water, the Radinn Jetboard takes cruisers who want a faster travel speed, up to 35 mph, in a unique combination of surfboardmeets-Jet-Ski while operating quietly enough not to disturb the surrounding natural environment and wildlife. The Jetboard has a smartphone app that lets riders share ride details.

There are three electric options for cruising the streets: the Moke low-speed vehicle, the KAASpeed scooter and the Ellwee cart. The choice depends on where you want to go and what you want to do.

Carolina Rides’ most popular ecofriendly vehicle is the Moke, a retro British military throwback with modern features, which is street legal where the posted speed limit is 35 mph or less. It’s quite an upgrade from a golf cart with its four forward-facing seats, seatbelts and customization options, like 12 paint colors, 10 Bimini-top choices, Bluetooth stereo system and much more. Stand out and support your favorite team in a red or orange Moke, or play it cool and casual in a white or baby blue version.

Also on land is the KAASpeed electric fat-tire scooter, which is self-balancing and lasts 40 miles traveling up to 26 mph. “It’s ideal for cruising downtown and the islands since it is actually an electric moped and is approved for use on roads with posted speed limits up to 55 mph,” says Bullock. “It’s the only electric vehicle you can take to the beach from Mount Pleasant.” Optional cargo racks can hold fishing rods, golf bags, gun rack, surfboard or cooler, making the KAASpeed versatile enough for hunting excursions, golfing or day trips to the beach. Plus, it is easily mounted on the back of a vehicle to take along on vacation.

The Ellwee electric cart for individual riders is Swedish-designed and Lowcountry-tested. It’s an ecofriendly option for the golf course at a manageable speed of up to 12 mph. Four models, including an accessible design, suit any type of rider.

Consumers can buy any of these electric vehicles from Carolina Rides or from one of its dealers in South Carolina or Georgia. “We are still looking for more dealers in both states, so customers can expect more opportunities to see the inventory in person,” Bullock says. “No matter the vehicle of choice, we are the source for electrified fun throughout the Southeast.” *

Dana W. Todd is a professional writer specializing in interior design, real estate, luxury homebuilding, landscape design, architecture and art.

CAROLINA RIDES

59B NEW ORLEANS ROAD

HILTON HEAD ISLAND, SC 29928

844.378.6653

CAROLINARIDES.COM