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The Villages in the Path of Hurricane Milton
As I write this editorial, I’m sitting in an Airbnb in Nashville, TN with my family and brother-in-law’s family. Today is the day that Hurricane Milton is projected to hit our area in SW Florida. We decided to leave. Kelly Madden, our staff writer, wrote an interesting article in this month’s edition about some popular golf carting communities in the U.S.
The largest of these is a community that is very dear to our readers and to the broader electric cart world and stands on the brink of an unprecedented natural challenge. The Villages in Florida, known as one of the largest golf cart communities globally, faces an imminent threat from Hurricane Milton, a formidable category 4 hurricane expected to make landfall within the next 24 hours. It is on the northern edge of the hurricane cone and even while positioned inland, it stands to take on unprecedented winds and rain.
The Villages represents not just a significant chapter in the story of golf carting, but a vibrant lifestyle embraced by its residents. This sprawling enclave, with its meticulously planned roads and cart paths, has become a symbol of the possibilities that electric carts and low-speed vehicles (LSVs) offer for sustainable, community-focused living. It's a place where the buzz of a golf cart is more common than the roar of a car engine, where neighbors meet and mingle in their open, friendly vehicles, creating a close-knit atmosphere that is rare in
today's fast-paced world.
However, the impending arrival of Hurricane Milton casts a shadow over this idyllic scene. Our thoughts are foremost with the citizens of The Villages, many of whom reside in mobile homes—structures particularly vulnerable to the ferocious winds and torrential rains a storm of this magnitude can unleash. The potential damage is considerable, with fears that hundreds, if not thousands, of golf carts, many the primary means of transportation for residents, could be lost to the storm. Such losses would not only be a blow in terms of value but would deeply impact the daily lives and mobility of the community.
At this harrowing time, we stand in solidarity with every resident of The Villages, and all the residents living in the communities threatened in the state of Florida. The spirit of community and resilience that defines The Villages will undoubtedly be a crucial asset in weathering the storm. It’s also a poignant reminder of the broader implications of such events, heightened by climate change, on communities bound by a unique lifestyle centered around the use of electric and low-speed vehicles.
As we monitor the situation, we also call upon our wider community and stakeholders in the golf cart and electric vehicle industries to extend their support to The Villages and the people of Florida. Whether this means aid in the recovery efforts that will follow or direct assistance to those displaced or affected, it’s crucial that we act as a pillar of support for our fellow enthusiasts.
In the coming months, recovery will be a primary theme both here in our magazine and within the community of The Villages itself. We will continue to cover the rebuilding efforts and how such a significant part of our community will navigate the aftermath of Hurricane Milton. We believe in the resilience of The Villages, and we commit to being part of the journey towards restoration, hoping to see the streets alive with the hum of golf carts once more.
Stay safe, stay strong, and let's stand together to support Floridians through this trying time. We hope you enjoy this November 2024 edition of Golf Carting Magazine.
October 9th 2024, Nashville, TN
Trevor Rose Senior Editor Trevor@golfcarting.com
GOLF CARTING // Issue 54 // November 2024
Publisher: GC Media Group, LLC
Senior Editor: Trevor Rose - trevor@golfcarting.com
Creative Director: Troy Merrifield - troy@golfcarting.com
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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THE ULTIMATE IN LUXURY AND STYLE
Thoselooking for the most luxurious and stylish golf and multi-passenger personal transportation vehicle should look closely at Garia Golf Cars.
With a head turning style and features that rival those of a European luxury car, Garia offers a full line of premium PTVs, (personal transportation vehicles), sure to offer a lifetime of comfort and performance.
Founded in Copenhagen, Denmark, in 2005, Garia was acquired by Club Car® in 2022. The company’s vehicles are built in Europe and available through the majority of Club Car dealers and many other independent outlets throughout the U.S.
Anders Lynge is a co-founder of Garia and points out that each vehicle is a one-of-a-kind build. “Each Garia PTV is crafted to the exact specifications of the customer, and our entire European facility is dedicated to the finest in design, manufacturing and assembly,” he said.
In mid-2024, Garia announced that Forbes has honored two of their models with top spots on the prestigious list of Top
Luxury Golf Cars. The Garia Via claimed the coveted #1 position and the Garia Courtesy earned the #6 spot. They were the only company with two PTVs on the list.
The Forbes list notes that Via features its design inspiration from European sports cars, superior craftsmanship, and innovative features. These models exemplify the absolute best in luxury golf and leisure cars, combining a sleek, sophisticated design with innovative technology for an unparalleled driving experience that sets a new standard for luxury on the course or around your community.
Earning the #6 spot on the Forbes list, the Garia Courtesy showcases the company’s commitment to excellence for the ultimate in high-end, multi-passenger PTVs. While emphasizing the spacious cabin, quality materials and advanced technology, the article also
highlights the quiet yet powerful electric motor of the car.
The company’s website offers a configuration portal where customers can design their vehicle to their own personal specifications, creating a totally unique, stateof-the-art low speed vehicle experience.
THE GARIA MODEL LINEUP
If you’re looking for an electric vehicle to enhance your round of golf, the Garia Golf is the golf car of choice. This car comes is offered in a Roadster, +2 option and the OFF-X lifted model which requires their 12-inch wheel option. There are several other optional package upgrades allowing customers to outfit their Golf car with the additional custom touches.
Standard features include the locking front storage
compartment, insulated ice box, USB dashboard outlet, leather sports steering wheel, soft-touch automotive style dash controls and much more. Their low speed vehicles are capable of a top speed of 25-mph and their PTVs 19-mph. Vehicle range on fully charged batteries is around 40 miles, depending on speed and use. These cars also offer dual circuit, hydraulic brakes on all four corners and an electromagnetic parking brake, plus an Eco/Sport speed switch standard. Exterior highlights are the futuristic curved roof, LED headlights and taillights, horn, tire mud guards and more. The 2-seat Golf car features bag holders with a 45-degree angle for easier club access. Other standard features include the pop-up roof ventilation panel, interior lamp, and back-up camera.
The street legal Via is also offered in 2+2, 4, and 4+2 configurations, offering luxurious and spacious seating
for multiple passengers riding in comfort and style. You can order a normal version or a lifted, OFF-X for an elevated ride.
The Via models come with all street legal accessories making them the perfect vehicle for heading up to the country club for dinner or taking the kids to the community pool.
The 6-passenger Via is the ultimate mode of transportation for places like hotel properties, medical or school campuses, new home developments or anywhere passengers need to be transported in luxury and spaciousness. Known as their Courtesy line of vehicles, these striking cars are found in use as personal transportation at the finest high-end resorts and hotels and country club facilities around the world.
All Via models are available in any of 22 gorgeous
body paint colors, 19 different luxury seat colors, 19 seat stitching colors and 6 different custom wheel designs. Some of the company’s newest color options include race-inspired metallic British Racing Green, Nardo matte grey and more.
Garia now also offers their Nomad Special Edition models, equipped with rugged, off road tires with an aggressive tread design, lifted for maximum clearance and available in several desert-style colors.
Mr. Lynge also announced several new advancements and upgrades to the Garia line of premium vehicles developed to suit the demands of the market for PTVs.
“We have recently gone to an 8kw motor and topof-range AC motor controller for increased power and torque, allowing even our 6-passenger models to maintain a 25-mph top speed and maximum power
going up inclines,” he said. Garia luxury golf cars come with lead cell batteries or an available lithium ion battery package.
Another added package is the exclusive Mansory Package, created in partnership with the German company known for crafting ultra-luxurious, carbon fiber components for the world’s finest luxury and supercar vehicles. Garia customers can equip their car with items like Mansory side mirrors, cup holders, rear bumper trim, dashboard, and front and rear mud fenders.
"A Garia is more than just a golf car; it is crafted for those who demand the very best. The experience is unparalleled," says Lynge.
Learn more about Garia and configure your luxury Garia car at www.garia.com. -GCMAG
LiFePO4 BATTERIES:
LTHE SAFER, STRONGER POWER SOLUTION FOR GOLF CARTS
Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries have gained significant attention in recent years, particularly for their application in electric vehicles (EVs), including golf carts. While traditional lead-acid batteries have long been the standard for powering golf carts, LiFePO4 batteries are quickly emerging as a superior alternative due to their improved performance, longer lifespan, and most notably, their enhanced safety profile. Safety is a crucial factor when considering the adoption of any energy storage technology, especially in vehicles that are used frequently and often in public or recreational spaces. This article will explore the safety features of LiFePO4 batteries, their advantages over other battery types, and why they are becoming the preferred choice for golf cart applications.
One of the primary reasons LiFePO4 batteries are considered safer than other types of lithium batteries is their intrinsic chemical stability. Compared to lithium-ion batteries that use cobalt oxide or manganese oxide as their cathode materials, LiFePO4 batteries use iron phosphate. This makes a significant difference in terms of thermal and chemical stability.
THERMAL STABILITY: LiFePO4 batteries are highly resistant to thermal runaway, a dangerous condition where the battery’s internal temperature rises uncontrollably, potentially leading to fires or explosions. Unlike other lithium-ion batteries that can become unstable at high temperatures, LiFePO4 batteries can operate safely over a broader range of temperatures without the risk of overheating or catching fire. This makes them ideal for golf carts, which are often used outdoors in varying weather conditions and may experience exposure to heat.
NON-COMBUSTIBLE COMPOSITION: The phosphate-based chemistry in LiFePO4 batteries is inherently non-combustible. Even in the event of a short circuit, mechanical damage, or overcharging, these batteries are much less likely to ignite than other types of lithium-ion batteries.
Overcharging or over-discharging batteries can lead to serious safety issues, including excessive heat generation, battery degradation, and even explosions in some cases. LiFePO4 batteries are designed with built-in safety features that protect against overcharging and over-discharging, reducing these risks.
BATTERY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (BMS): Most LiFePO4 battery packs come equipped with a sophisticated Battery Management System (BMS) that continuously monitors the battery’s state of charge, temperature, and health. The BMS ensures that the
battery does not charge beyond safe limits, which could otherwise lead to dangerous overheating or cell damage. Similarly, it prevents the battery from discharging to dangerously low levels, which can also lead to instability.
• SAFE CHARGING: LiFePO4 batteries have a much wider voltage range than lead-acid batteries, which means they can handle variations in charging currents and voltages more effectively. This tolerance to fluctuations makes them less prone to malfunctions during charging, a time when batteries are often most vulnerable to overheating or failure.
• SAFE DISCHARGE: In golf carts, which often experience varying loads as they accelerate, climb hills, or operate at different speeds, LiFePO4 batteries are able to manage discharge rates safely. This ensures that even under heavy use, the battery remains stable and safe.
4. RESISTANCE TO MECHANICAL DAMAGE
Golf carts are typically used in environments where rough terrain, bumps, and other physical stresses are common. The battery system in these vehicles must therefore be durable enough to withstand mechanical impacts without compromising safety. LiFePO4 batteries offer superior mechanical strength and resistance to damage compared to other lithium battery types.
• SHOCK AND VIBRATION RESISTANCE: LiFePO4 batteries are less prone to damage from shocks or vibrations, which are common in golf carts, especially when driving over uneven or off-road surfaces. This resilience reduces the likelihood of battery failure or safety issues arising from physical damage to the cells.
• LOWER RISK OF LEAKAGE: Unlike lead-acid batteries, which contain corrosive liquid electrolytes that can leak if the battery is damaged, LiFePO4 batteries are sealed and contain no dangerous liquids. Even if a LiFePO4 battery is damaged, it does not leak harmful chemicals, reducing the risk of injury or environmental harm.
LiFePO4 batteries represent a major leap forward in safety for golf carts, offering advantages over both lead-acid and other types of lithium-ion batteries. Their inherent chemical stability, resistance to thermal runaway, and ability to withstand mechanical stress make them an ideal power source for vehicles that are used in a variety of outdoor and recreational settings. LiFePO4 batteries have become the preferred choice for golf carts, ensuring that users can enjoy reliable, safe, and responsible energy storage solutions for years to come.
AMERICA’S MOST POPULAR GOLF CART COMMUNITIES
Today’s LSVs, (low speed vehicles), sometimes called NEVs, (neighborhood electric vehicles), are spurring a big surge in cart use within residential communities. Even owners of older, traditional “golf carts” are right at home with the most trickedout, premium LSVs in dozens of communities throughout the US.
Many are opting to leave the family sedan in the garage and using the carts to get around for things like picking up some groceries, joining friends at the community clubhouse for a bite to eat or taking the kids or grandkids up to the pool. Let’s take a closer look at some of the country’s most cartcentric residential enclaves in America.
THE VILLAGES – CENTRAL FLORIDA
This cart-friendly, 55-plus community is so expansive, it spans 3 counties just south of Ocala, Florida.
Long known for their huge cart owner population, The Villages offers dozens of different residential communities within its boundaries, and this retirement haven encompasses about 57 square miles and is home to approximately 150,000 residents. With an amazingly low monthly amenity fee of just $195.00 pr month, residents here use their LSV to get to over 3,000 monthly classes, drive to multiple restaurants and shops in the many town centers, as well as to 13 championship golf courses and 41 executive courses.
Many people are mistakenly under the impression that The Villages is just another mobile home park, but prospective residents can select from a wide array of housing styles including patio villas, courtyard villas, cottage homes, patio homes, verandas, and more upscale designer residences.
Most owners here have more than one cart or LSV, and that eco-friendly mode of transportation is by far the preferred and most popular way to get around in The Villages.
SOUTH CAROLINA LOW COUNTRY
With a near-perfect, year-round climate and dozens of charming barrier islands and residential communities, this region of South Carolina is known as a golf cart and LSV paradise.
Residents in places like Beaufort, Charleston, Hilton Head Island, Wexford, and Daufuskie Island and many more are able to use their golf cars to get to just about anywhere, including the supermarket, doctor’s offices, dining, and shopping destinations and of course, hundreds of area golf courses.
There is a large number of residential resort style gated
communities where the golf car is the most prominent mode of getting around. In many municipalities, the surrounding bike paths have been designed wide enough to accommodate dual-direction LSV travel. Heading up to the club for a tennis match with your neighbors, taking the kids to the beach along the coastline or just enjoying an evening cart cruise to watch the sunset are more fun in an LSV.
Plus, the savings on gas and the reduced impact on the environment are also key reasons golf cars are so popular here. Many LSV manufacturers large and small have chosen the area in and nearby Charleston as their company headquarters.
PEACHTREE CITY – GEORGIA
Located near the southern metropolitan area of Atlanta, Peachtree City is one of the premier LSV-centric communities
golfcartcommunity
in the US with a population of around 40,000 residents.
This idyllic southern small town boasts 100-miles of cart paths, allowing residents to get to shopping centers, schools, parks, golf courses, tennis facilities and more while winding through the scenic countryside.
Cart owners here need to register the cart with the city for a nominal fee to use the expansive path system, and LSVs must display a Fayette County license plate and equip their cart with an amber strobe light.
There is an estimated 10,000-plus golf carts and LSVs here, and the town is known for their slogan, “life is better at 15 miles per hour.” Kim Leonard is the Mayor of Peachtree City and points out the benefits of living the cart life here. “Taking the golf cart means you're taking your time. At the end of a busy week, we like to load the family on a golf cart and go out for an ice cream cone,” she says.
“Golf carts just might be the alternative transportation mode of the future. And in Peachtree City, our citizens use their golf carts to reach shopping centers, restaurants, schools, parks, and city events. And the highlight of our year is the annual Fourth of July golf cart parade,” Leonard said.
SUN CITY – ARIZONA
Home to around 40,000 residents and one of the most popular golf cart and LSV residential communities in the country, Sun City is a mecca for those who want to leave the family car at home and use their LSV for easy, convenient transportation. Sun City, and their sister city Sun City West, are near Pheonix in Maricopa County, Arizona.
This 55-plus age community was established in the early 1960s, and golf carts quickly became the best way to experience life in this golf and retirement community. An estimated 50-percent of residents rely on their cart or LSV for basic transportation and far more then just enjoying 18-holes.
There are dozens of nearby golf cart and LSV dealers and service facilities, ensuring Sun City residents can keep their carts in peak performance condition.
In 2014, Arizona’s Governor enacted a new law to allow carts to use the traffic lanes more safely, requiring cart drivers to utilize the most right-side edge of the traffic lane to reduce accidents and traffic citations. Previously, carts were allowed to be operated in entire traffic lane like a standard vehicle.
Carts and LSVs in Maricopa County are required to be registered with the Department of Motor Vehicles.
If you are looking for a cart-friendly retirement community in the beautiful Southwest, Sun City deserves serious attention.
LAGUNA WOODS VILLAGE – CALIFORNIA
Situated just minutes from the breathtaking Laguna Beach coastline, this beautiful 55-plus community is home to around 20,000 residents within the 3.8-square mile boundaries.
Golf carts and LSVs are the best way to get to the 2 championship golf courses, 5 community swimming pools, tennis center, performing arts center, equestrian facility and so much more. There is an extensive network of cartfriendly pathways that allow residents to easily access many community destinations. With several designated golf cart and LSV intersections across some of the major roads, carts can easily get to the most popular destinations in Laguna Woods Village.
Many of the individual residential communities’ Homeowners Associations within Laguna Woods have specific rules and regulations regarding LSV use within the gates, allowing them for use to meet neighbors for a game of tennis, lunch at the clubhouse or enjoying a refreshing dip at the community pool.
No matter where you live, especially in the warmer states where people retire to enjoy the ultimate golf carting lifestyle, there are many spots where these cost-effective, eco-friendly vehicles are the featured way to travel. -GCMAG
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BY
HONOR LSV G1 9 MONTHS WITH THE
It has been approximately nine months since the owner of Honor LSV delivered a brand-new G1 LSV for my family's use. I must say, it has been a fantastic experience, and Honor has indeed crafted an exceptional cart.
Back in December of last year, Brian Plaisance, the owner of Honor LSV, personally delivered one of his carts to my residence. The convenience of Honor LSV being located in Summerville, SC, just a quick 20-minute drive from Charleston,
made the delivery seamless. Brian arrived in the evening and spent time going over all the impressive features and accessories of the cart.
This particular cart came equipped with some additional features: an outstanding audio system by ECOXGEAR with a soundbar and subwoofer, along with LED light bars (front and rear). All Honor LSV carts come standard with ECO lithium batteries, premium seats, a touchscreen with a backup camera,
an aluminum frame, and 4-wheel disc brakes, among others.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
Having seen, tested, and driven numerous golf carts over the years and personally owned around 15 carts myself, taking the G1 for its first ride around my neighborhood was a pleasant surprise. The cart drove smoothly, rode comfortably, and exhibited impressive acceleration. When I took my wife and kids for a ride, they all shared the same sentiment – they were highly impressed. The touchscreen was a welcomed addition, responsive and providing convenient access to all the cart's functions, as well as phone and audio controls.
PUTTING IT THROUGH ITS PACES
To thoroughly test the cart, I had my 15-year-old son, Carter, drive it around. Carter uses our golf carts daily to travel to the neighborhood gym, about a mile away, and frequently cruises around with his friends. Over the past nine months, Carter has clocked about 300 miles on the cart and has only positive feedback. He particularly praised the overall ride comfort, comparing it favorably to our previous Club Car Onward, which was also highly regarded.
After this extensive use, my wife and I also took the cart out on several occasions. Recently, I decided to conduct a thorough inspection. I checked all connections, brakes, bolts, and every visible aspect, and I am pleased to report that everything remained in excellent condition, with no issues, loose components, or squeaks. The cart appears to be built to withstand robust use.
OVERALL IMPRESSIONS
Brian and his team have crafted an exceptional cart. I cannot speak highly enough of it – no issues, exceptional ride and handling, and built with durability in mind. We have thoroughly enjoyed our time with this cart and will certainly miss it. If you have the opportunity to take one for a test drive, I assure you that you will not be disappointed.
For more information, please visit Honor LSV's website at www.honorlsv.com
Continued on next page
HONOR G1
STANDARD FEATURES
• 2 Year Manufacturer Warranty
• 105Ah EcoBattery Lithium Battery with 8 Year Warranty
• 4kW Motor
• 450A Controller
• 30A Inverter
• 3” or 6” Lift
• 4 Wheel Disc Brakes
• Independent and Adjustable Front Suspension
• 10” Touchscreen Display with Bluetooth
• Premium Seats with Storage
• Column FNR
• Adjustable Camber and Toe
• Seatbelts with No Seatbelt Interference
• Self-Canceling LED Turn Signals in Side Mirrors
• Adjustable Height Roof
• Rear Flip Seat with Cooler
• Foldable Windshield
PREMIUM UPGRADES AVAILABLE
• LSV (Includes DOT Approved Windshield, DOT Approved Tires, and Backup Camera)
• 5kW Motor
• 32” EcoXGear Soundbar
• 8” EcoXGear Subwoofer
• Brush Guard
• Clays Basket
• 160Ah EcoBattery Lithium Battery
• 210Ah EcoBattery Lithium Battery
• 20” Safety Rear Light Bar
• 32” Safety Front Light Bar
• Backup Camera
• 3” Lift Radial Tire Upgrade
• Aluminum Side Steps
• Trailer Hitch
• Trailer Hitch Attachments:
• Holds 45 Quart Ice Chest/Lawn Chairs
• Holds 25 Gallon Lockable Storage Bin/Lawn Chairs
MEET JERRY PATRICK – THE CREATIVE MIND BEHIND THE BATMOBILE
Q: AND WHERE ARE YOU BASED?
A: We’re crafting custom carts right here in Newnan, Georgia.
Q: TELL US ABOUT THIS UNIQUE BUILD. WHAT YEAR, BRAND, AND MODEL CART DID YOU START WITH?
A: This one’s built on a 2020 Ezgo RXV – but it’s far from your everyday golf cart.
Q: AND WHAT DID YOU TURN IT INTO?
A: A 1989 Batmobile Golf Cart! Custom-bodied and designed to turn heads.
Q: WHAT DID YOU USE TO CREATE THIS MASTERPIECE?
A: We crafted it with fiberglass front and rear body panels, bringing the Batmobile vibe to life.
Q: HOW DID YOU GET STARTED IN THIS BUSINESS, AND HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN BUILDING CARTS?
A: We’ve been in the game for 9 years. It all started with custom projects like Lil' Mater, Lil' McQueen, and The Whoville Car – and it’s been a wild ride ever since!
Q: ANY EXCITING FUTURE PLANS?
A: We’re just getting started! Our newest additions, “The Bandit” and another Batmobile, are already turning heads. Stay tuned – there’s always something epic in the works!
INTRODUCING JACK NIEHAUS - TURNING RETIREMENT INTO A WORKSHOP WONDERLAND
Q: WHERE ARE YOU BASED, JACK?
A: I’m out in Auburn, California, where I spend most of my time tinkering in the garage.
Q: WHAT YEAR, BRAND, AND MODEL CART DID YOU START WITH FOR THIS PROJECT?
A: It’s built on a 1970 Taylor Dunn. But after some mods, it’s hardly recognizable!
Q: TELL US ABOUT THIS CUSTOM BUILD. WHAT DID YOU DO TO MAKE IT ONE-OF-A-KIND?
A: I started with a Taylor Dunn burden carrier and added a Club Car rear axle. Most of the original body was stripped down, and I repurposed a rear windshield from a '60s VW Bug. It’s got that retro vibe with some modern flair.
Q: DID YOU FABRICATE ANY CUSTOM PARTS FOR THIS BUILD?
A: Oh, definitely! The body frame was built from tubing and flat sheet metal. To shape the nose, I cut and molded scrap from a 1954 Buick hood. The brake linkage had to be reconfigured from hydraulic to work with the Club Car brake system.
Q: WHAT AFTERMARKET PARTS DID YOU THROW IN?
A: It’s powered by a Navitas 5kW motor (yep, had to modify the frame to fit it!) and a Navitas 600-amp controller. I’m running it on old Trojan batteries for now but plan to upgrade to 72-volt lithium batteries soon.
Q: CAN YOU SHARE A BIT ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND? HOW DID YOU GET INTO BUILDING CUSTOM CARTS?
A: I’ve built a few hotrods over the years – just a backyard tinkerer enjoying retirement. I do it for the love of creating, not for the money.
Q: ANY FUTURE PLANS FOR YOUR HOBBY OR PROJECTS?
A: Nothing commercial. I’m just a hobbyist having fun, trying new things, and enjoying the learning process.
Q: ANY WORDS OF WISDOM FOR ASPIRING BUILDERS?
A: If you really want to make something, go for it! The best way to learn is by making mistakes – and trust me, I make plenty of them.
PREMIUM PERFORMANCE AND FULL OF FEATURES DENAGO EV
With an eye-catching body design, packed with high-end factory features and a very attractive price point, Denago EV is taking the LSV market by storm.
After considering thousands of potential company names, the founders of this innovative cart brand decided on Denago based on inspiration from the grandeur and resilience of Mount Denali in Alaska. They chose "Denago" to reflect the spirit of this magnificent, towering peak.
The company was founded in 2021, and the first models came on the market in early 2023. Denago has facilities and corporate offices based in St. Petersburg, Florida, with other offices and warehouses in Texas. In August of this year, Denago invested $60 million into their new Texas assembly facility and warehouse to better serve their dealers and customers and stay ahead of the curve on the company’s impressive growth.
There is no mistaking a Denago EV when you see one, with their distinctive front end style and LED lights
reminiscent of Tesla automobiles. The graceful lines of the body contours, the premium and ultra-comfortable seating and standard safety and performance features make the Denago line of EVs the fastest growing golf car brand in the U.S., with over 150 dealers nationwide. The company is also now poised to enter the international market.
A DENAGO EV FOR EVERYONE
There are currently three different models in the Denago lineup of EVs, each with their own unique design and performance features. All Denago EVs are custom crafted on black, powder coated aluminum frames.
The Denago Nomad offers an ultra-smooth ride, sitting at 76.5-inches tall and riding on radial tires on this non-lifted configuration. This EV has a range of 40 miles on a full charge, tilt steering wheel, back-up camera, 4-wheel hydraulic disc brakes, and more. USA Today® newspaper said of the Nomad, "Forget the competition,
Denago EV’s lineup offers features at a price that's simply unheard of." The Nomad comes in 6 gorgeous body colors.
The Nomad XL is their lifted, 4- seat model, offering a spacious rear seat that can be folded down to create a platform for beach or camping gear, and a sturdy grab rail for passengers. There is also a large storage compartment underneath the rear seat cushion. This EV comes with a more aggressive tire tread, perfect for smoothly traveling on trails or sand. There is also a lockable storage compartment on the front cowl. This cart weighs 1,050 pounds, can carry an 838 pound payload and measures 81.5-inches tall.
Denago’s Rover XL is their 4 forward-facing seat model, with an aggressive lifted stance and every premium feature you’ll need direct from the factory. The Rover XL offers a full, extended top to keep all 4 passengers protected from the elements, a large LED screen on the sleek dashboard, a premium sound system and soundbar controlled from the touch screen, dual dash storage compartments, 4 cup holders, plus a microphone for easy Bluetooth connectivity to your cell phone. There are 2, rear seat USB ports, turn signals,
4-passenger seat belts and even enough room on the rear seat to install a child safety seat.
This Denago EV also offers Apple Car Play® and Android Auto® capabilities, NFC touch switch and a smooth ride on 23 x 10 14-inch DOT-approved tires.
POWER TO SPARE FOR EVERY ADVENTURE
All models of Denago EVs are equipped with the company’s own proprietary Lithium 51.2V / 105 Ah battery, onboard quick charger, 5kW AC Denago motor and Denago 400 amp controller.
The Rover XL can easily climb a 30 degree grade incline and can carry 882-pounds.
Matt White is the creator and host of Golf Carting TV®, this publication’s YouTube channel which has now grown to over 16,000 subscribers. He recently interviewed Nick DiStasio of Carts Inc., in Fredericksburg, Virginia, an authorized Denago dealer, to do a review of the Rover XL. “Our customer response to the Denago line of EVs has been overwhelming,” DiStasio says. (You can watch the entire Rover XL review here, and be sure to subscribe to Golf Carting TV for the latest in cart industry news and cool videos.)
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Other deluxe features found standard on the Rover XL include the running boards with steps for easy passenger access, front light bar and brush guard, and a vented windshield. This impressive EV rides incredibly smooth and solid on beautiful, 14-inch custom wheels and 23-inch tires.
Another premium feature found all the entire Denago lineup is the innovative NFID electronically encrypted card that only requires a wave over the starter button to turn the vehicle on and off. No more bulky key fobs necessary – just pull your card from your wallet or shirt pocket and you’re good to go.
Among Denago’s plans for the future, watch for their new external inverter and custom lighting kit to be available on 2025 models. The company also announced plans for their new Rover XXL model, featuring spacious seating for 6 passengers, expected to launch in early 2025.
If you’re in the market for a top-of-the-line EV designed for maximum performance and a lifetime of durability, the value of the Denago line is hard to ignore. -GCMAG
ASK THE MECHANIC
Q: What type of differential is most used in golf carts, and how does it improve handling?
A: Golf carts typically use an open differential, which allows for better handling by enabling wheels to rotate at different speeds during cornering, improving traction.
Q: What is the typical gear ratio in golf carts, and how does it influence performance?
A: Golf carts typically have gear ratios ranging from 10:1 to 12:1. These influence acceleration and top speed; a higher ratio allows for more torque but limits top speed, while a lower ratio improves speed.
Q: How does the controller of an electric golf cart regulate motor speed?
A: The controller manages power flow from the battery to the motor, interprets input from the accelerator pedal, and regulates speed, acceleration, and regenerative braking functions. Most controllers use Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) which adjusts the voltage and current supplied to the motor based on the operator's input,
controlling speed and acceleration.
Q: How do modifications to the motor affect the overall efficiency of a golf cart?
A: Upgrading to a high-efficiency motor can improve torque and power output while reducing energy consumption, enhancing the overall performance and range of the golf cart.
Q: What are the benefits of installing an aftermarket performance controller in an electric golf cart?
A: An aftermarket performance controller can enhance hill-climbing capabilities, improve acceleration and top speed, and provide customization options for a tailored driving experience.
Q: What are the key indicators of motor wear or failure in an electric golf cart?
A: Key indicators include unusual noises, reduced power or torque, overheating, erratic performance, and signs of electrical shorts or burnt connections.