A MOVE TOWARDS AMERICAN CRAFTSMANSHIP, INNOVATION, AND INDUSTRY-LEADING PRODUCTS
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Rev Up for an Electrifying Issue of Golf Carting Magazine
Buckle up, folks—this month’s edition is packed with innovation, inspiration, and a dash of golf cart pizzazz. From tech titans reshaping the industry to dealerships turning service into an art form, there’s plenty to get excited about.
SIERRA LSV: RISING STARS OF THE SOUTH
First up, we take a joyride with Sierra LSV, a Georgiabased startup that’s redefining success in the lowspeed vehicle world. With rapid dealer expansion and customer service so responsive it could make Amazon jealous, Sierra is proving that new kids on the block can steal the spotlight. Their 2025 lineup is loaded with upgrades, from Apple CarPlay integration to premium shock systems. If Sierra’s growth is any indication, they’re cruising straight to the top.
ROYPOW’S POWER PLAY
Next, ROYPOW electrifies us with their complete power solutions. From lithium-ion batteries with advanced safety features to motors that can zip across the green with finesse, ROYPOW’s innovations scream efficiency. Oh, and their new Cell-to-Pack tech? Who knew energy solutions could be this exciting?
QOMOLANDER: SCALING NEW PEAKS
For our third act, we meet Qomolander, a name as bold as their batteries. These Mount Everest-inspired innovators are climbing to new heights in lithium power. With Bluetooth-enabled smarts and durability built to outlast your swing practice, they’re a brand to watch.
Whether you’re navigating the fairway or the marina, Qomolander’s got the juice to keep you going.
JAKE’S® GOES BIG IN SHREVEPORT
Meanwhile, Jake’s® is waving the flag for American craftsmanship. Their move to Shreveport is more than just a change of scenery—it’s a full-blown renaissance. Think streamlined production, cutting-edge lift kits, and a dedication to quality that’s as sturdy as their suspension systems. Add in a lifetime warranty, and you’ve got a brand that’s raising the bar—literally.
BUILDING THE ULTIMATE DREAM TEAM
Finally, we dive into the art of dealership excellence. Forget just selling carts; it’s all about selling experiences. From hiring staff who embrace wacky customer requests (karaoke cart, anyone?) to fostering team camaraderie, this piece offers a playbook for turning good dealerships into great ones. Pro tip: happy employees make for happy customers—and booming businesses.
With this lineup, you’re in for a wild ride of innovation, dedication, and a whole lot of fun. So grab your favorite beverage, settle into your golf cart (or sofa), and enjoy this month’s edition of Golf Carting Magazine.
Trevor Rose Senior Editor
GOLF CARTING // Issue 57 // February 2025
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: Matt White
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!
©2025 GC Media Group, LLC
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A MOVE TOWARDS AMERICAN CRAFTSMANSHIP, INNOVATION, AND INDUSTRY-LEADING PRODUCTS
Jake's® has long been recognized as the leader in the golf cart Lift Kit industry, known for its unwavering commitment to quality and innovation. Today, the company is entering a new chapter, focusing on American manufacturing and introducing a range of products that are set to reshape the market. As part of this evolution, Jake’s is excited to announce the relocation of its operations to Shreveport, LA. This move, which places Jake’s at the home of Nivel’s Off-Road Vehicle division, reinforces the company’s dedication to American craftsmanship and allows for a more streamlined production process. With all manufacturing under one roof, Jake’s® can continue to uphold its high standards of quality while staying ahead of industry trends and meeting growing customer
demand.
With all production now based in Shreveport, LA, the company is returning to its roots with industry experts working side by side. The move from Cairo, GA, to Shreveport, LA enables the company to leverage the specialized skills of a dedicated team focused exclusively on suspension manufacturing and engineering. Keeping production in-house ensures stricter quality standards, allowing them to deliver consistently exceptional products to customers. By combining expert design with precise production, Jake’s guarantees that its products perform reliably and stand the test of time. This commitment to quality and American craftsmanship is at the heart of what makes Jake’s a trusted name in the industry.
Jake’s has always been a brand that listens to its customers and dealers. Through continuous feedback, they have innovated new products designed to meet the evolving needs of the market. Their latest development, the reservoir shock absorbers, is a direct response to customer demand for superior suspension systems. These new shocks are part of Jake’s ongoing efforts to expand its product line, offering customers more flexible installation options and improved performance.
Known for their precision and attention to detail, Jake’s lift kits are crafted with care. With all production centralized in Shreveport, they can ensure a highly efficient and accurate process. The team is focused on creating lift kits that meet every golf cart need, while maintaining the high standards that make their products so reliable. This ability to control the entire process under one roof means Jake’s can uphold the same high standards seen in their other brands, ensuring top-tier performance in every kit.
Being an all-American brand means more than just keeping production in the U.S.; it’s about earning trust from dealers and consumers alike. Dealers know they’re offering the best, most reliable American-made lift kits and suspension systems. Consumers can trust that by installing a Jake’s lift kit, they’re making an investment in long-lasting quality and durability. Backed by a lifetime warranty on every kit, customers can rest assured that their investment is fully protected. This commitment to quality, integrity, and job creation sets Jake’s apart from the competition.
Jake’s new facility is housed in Nivel’s Off-Road Vehicle Division alongside some of the industry’s top brands, including High Lifter®, Seizmik®, and Falcon Ridge®.
With advanced machinery and a team of specialized engineers, designers, and fabricators, Shreveport is perfectly positioned to build top-tier suspension products. This facility’s capabilities, combined with the expertise of Jake’s teams, will allow the company to develop even more innovative products in the future. The integration of cutting-edge technology and top-tier talent creates the perfect environment for developing and producing industry-leading products. Thanks to new manufacturing processes at the Shreveport facility, Jake’s is elevating the quality and attention to detail in its products like never before. As the brand continues to expand its product line, customers can look forward to improved suspension solutions that take their vehicles to the next level.
During this period of transformation, the culture within Jake’s has shifted to one of renewed pride and excitement. The team in Shreveport is highly skilled and motivated, working on products that will carry the iconic Jake’s name. This newfound energy and enthusiasm permeates throughout the company, as everyone is eager to contribute to the success of this rebirth.
The transition to Shreveport began in November,
with full completion expected by mid-January. This smooth and efficient transition process ensures minimal disruption to operations and guarantees that products continue to be delivered at the highest standards of quality and performance.
With the new manufacturing hub, Jake’s will be able to distribute products more quickly and efficiently across the U.S. The facility's improved logistics will meet faster production times, helping to reach the growing demand for Jake’s products while reducing lead times for customers. Additionally, the increased production capacity means Jake’s can now deliver products in higher volumes without compromising on quality.
The future is bright for Jake’s. With a renewed focus on American craftsmanship, innovation, and a commitment to excellence, Jake’s is positioned to lead the industry in off-road and lift kit solutions. As the brand continues to evolve, customers can expect even more cuttingedge products, backed by the unparalleled quality and durability they’ve come to trust. With the move to Shreveport, Jake’s is ready to tackle new challenges and set new standards in the industry.
BUILDING YOUR DREAM TEAM Turning Good Into Great
LLet’s face it: golf cart dealerships aren’t just about selling carts; they’re about selling experiences. The difference between a so-so dealership and one that customers rave about usually boils down to one thing—your team. Inventory and location are important, sure, but it’s the people who turn a transaction into a lasting relationship (and maybe even a Christmas card). Exceptional dealerships build dream teams that thrive, innovate, and deliver customer experiences so good they could go viral. So how do you assemble and manage your own crew of rockstars? Here’s your playbook.
Values-Based Leadership: The Glue That Holds It Together
Every great team starts with a clear vision. Think of your dealership’s values as the north star guiding your crew through sales slumps, service hiccups, and the occasional angry customer. But here’s the twist: flexibility is key.
Your service techs don’t have to be sales superstars, but understanding the basics of selling goes a long way. Similarly, your salespeople should know what a wrench looks like (and maybe even how to use it). This cross-functional knowledge creates smoother customer experiences and a tighter team dynamic—like a well-oiled golf cart on a sunny Sunday afternoon.
Finding the Right People: Attitude Over Aptitude
When it comes to hiring, think of your team as a golf cart: the frame (attitude) is way more important than the paint job (experience). Skills can be taught, but enthusiasm, customer focus, and a genuine passion for the industry are priceless. Look for candidates who light up when they talk about problem-solving or who already know the difference between a lithium and lead-acid battery (or are eager to learn). The best hires aren’t just filling a job; they’re fueling your dealership’s future.
Pro tip: Hire people who can handle quirky customer requests. If someone asks for a custom cart with flames and a karaoke machine, you’ll want a team member who says, “Let me see what I can do!” instead of, “That’s not possible.”
Training for Success - More Than Just Manuals
Throwing new hires into the deep end isn’t training; it’s chaos. Structured training programs are the secret sauce to setting your team up for success. Combine orientation with real-life dealership scenarios to keep things practical. But don’t stop there. Create
pathways for ongoing development and leadership training. Not only does this help your team grow, but it also keeps them from getting bored—because a bored employee is a dangerous employee (especially near your lithium battery inventory).
Setting Clear Expectations - The GPS of Your Dealership
High-performance teams don’t run on guesswork. They need crystalclear expectations and fair evaluations to shine. Set measurable objectives that align with your dealership’s goals, and reward great performance with competitive pay and meaningful incentives. Remember, performance reviews shouldn’t feel like a trip to the principal’s office. Focus on growth, not just grading. And yes, the occasional “great job” can work wonders for morale.
Communication is Key - Talk More, Guess Less
A team that communicates well wins more often than not. Start with daily huddles to tackle immediate priorities (keep it short—nobody likes a meeting that cuts into coffee time). Weekly department meetings are perfect for performance updates, and monthly all-hands sessions keep everyone on track with the dealership’s big-picture goals. Don’t forget to sprinkle in some team bonding. Whatever it is, happy teams mean happy customers.
Measuring What Matters – Keep Score Like A Pro
You can’t improve what you don’t measure. Keep tabs on customer satisfaction, employee retention, and department efficiency metrics. These numbers tell you whether you’re crushing it—or if there’s a flat tire in your operations. Remember, building a highperformance team isn’t a one-time project. It’s an ongoing journey, much like trying to perfect your golf swing. The key is to keep improving, one step (or swing) at a time.
The best dealership owners know their role isn’t just running a business—it’s developing people. When you invest in your team, you create a resilient organization ready to adapt to market changes and blow past customer expectations.
So, what are you waiting for? Start building your dream team today and watch your dealership go from good to legendary.
For more content focused on helping golf cart dealers build more efficient, profitable businesses, check out the Golf Carting Dealer Institute at www.GCDealerInsitute.com.
POWERING THE FUTURE
A CLOSER LOOK AT QOMOLANDER
As the golf cart industry continues its rapid shift toward lithium power solutions, one manufacturer is scaling new heights in battery technology. We recently sat down with Qomolander, an emerging force in the lithium battery sector, to learn more about their journey and what sets them apart in this competitive market.
Q: TELL US ABOUT QOMOLANDER'S ORIGINS AND WHAT INSPIRED THE COMPANY NAME.
A: Founded in 2016 in Shenzhen, China, Qomolander emerged during a pivotal moment in the energy storage industry, when the transition from lead-acid to lithium batteries was gaining
momentum. The company's name draws inspiration from Qomolangma, the Tibetan name for Mount Everest. Like the world's highest peak, Qomolander aspires to reach the summit of battery technology excellence, tackling challenges with the same determination as mountaineers ascending Everest.
Q: HOW IS THE COMPANY STRUCTURED GLOBALLY?
A: While manufacturing operations are centered in Huizhou, China, Qomolander maintains a strong presence in the United States through its California branch. The company operates under two distinct brands: Qomolander USA, which focuses on standardized products, and QomoEnergy China, which
specializes in customized solutions, including OEM and ODM services. With approximately 150 employees across their operations, they've established service centers in California, Arizona, and Florida to support their growing North American customer base.
Q: WHAT DISTINGUISHES QOMOLANDER'S BATTERIES IN THE GOLF CART MARKET?
A: Several key features set their products apart. The batteries deliver impressive power output with 300A continuous current and a robust 1000A peak for 2-second bursts. Durability is another strong point, with 3500 cycle life cells and minimal voltage variation – less than 0.003 voltage difference per pack. They've also integrated smart technology, incorporating Bluetooth-enabled BMS (Battery Management System) for realtime monitoring of battery status.
Q: HOW DOES QOMOLANDER APPROACH QUALITY CONTROL AND CUSTOMER ASSURANCE?
A: The company has set an ambitious goal of maintaining a product failure rate below 0.5% over five years. This
commitment is backed by a comprehensive 5-year full warranty – notably, not pro-rated – providing customers with long-term peace of mind. Their quality assurance process begins with carefully selected suppliers and continues through a rigorous manufacturing process with strict quality inspections at every stage.
Q: BEYOND GOLF CARTS, WHAT OTHER MARKETS DOES QOMOLANDER SERVE?
A: While golf cart batteries are a primary focus, Qomolander's technology extends to several other applications. Their lithium solutions power marine vessels, RVs, aerial work platforms, and material handling equipment. They've also developed energy storage systems for broader applications, demonstrating the versatility of their technology.
Q: WHAT'S THE COMPANY'S APPROACH TO PRICING IN THE COMPETITIVE BATTERY MARKET?
A: Qomolander has positioned itself uniquely in the market by implementing a pricing strategy that benefits both dealers and end users. Their approach aims to increase dealer profits
while simultaneously reducing consumer costs, creating a winwin scenario that helps drive market adoption of their lithium technology.
Q: WHAT FACTORS HAVE CONTRIBUTED TO QOMOLANDER'S SUCCESS?
A: The company attributes its growth to three key elements: a robust R&D team, partnerships with premium suppliers, and stringent manufacturing protocols. Their emphasis on user experience has also played a crucial role, with consistent feedback integration helping to refine their products. The establishment of strategic service centers across the U.S. has enabled them to provide responsive support to their American customer base.
Q: WHAT'S ON THE HORIZON FOR QOMOLANDER?
A: Looking ahead, Qomolander is doubling down on their commitment to quality in the golf cart battery sector. Rather than diversifying their product line, they're focusing on perfecting their existing offerings, believing that excellence in their core products will naturally drive market recognition and growth. This focused approach aligns with their
mountain-climbing namesake – reaching the summit requires unwavering dedication to a clear goal.
Q: HOW DOES QOMOLANDER VIEW THE FUTURE OF LITHIUM TECHNOLOGY IN THE GOLF CART INDUSTRY?
A: As clean energy continues to gain prominence and the golf cart market evolves, Qomolander sees tremendous potential for lithium battery adoption. Their investment in R&D and quality improvement suggests they're positioning themselves for long-term leadership in this transition, particularly as golf courses and private owners increasingly recognize the performance and environmental benefits of lithium power solutions.
The rapid rise of Qomolander in the golf cart battery sector exemplifies the dynamic nature of our industry's transition to advanced power solutions. As golf cart manufacturers and owners increasingly embrace lithium technology, companies that can deliver on both performance and reliability will play a crucial role in shaping the future of our industry. With their robust technical foundation and customer-centric approach, Qomolander appears well-positioned to power this evolution.
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LEADING IN GOLF CART POWER SOLUTION INNOVATIONS ROYPOW’S NEW JOURNEY 2025
Years ago, the golf cart market in the USA was dominated by lead-acid batteries, and ROYPOW changed the game by introducing lithium-ion batteries that offer longer lifespans, faster charging, greater energy efficiency, improved performance, and lower carbon footprint. Today, ROYPOW has become a well-known brand—both a pioneer in the shift from lead-acid to lithium batteries and the best-selling Li-ion battery brand for golf carts in the USA. Though achieving positive success, this is just the beginning. In 2025, ROYPOW will embark on a new journey, further expanding its impact in the golf cart battery market.
INNOVATIVE PRODUCTS AND NEW LINEUPS
As part of this journey, ROYPOW is introducing upgraded products and new lineups for enhanced power supply and driving experience.
One of the highlights is the Upgraded Lithium-ion Batteries. They’re equipped with an intelligent SOC meter for real-time monitoring via the monitor display or Bluetoothenabled mobile app, along with 6-level safety protection. These safety features include manufacturing-level safety with full traceability from raw material procurement to battery manufacturing, material-level safety with a UL94-V0 flame
retardant rating, cell-level safety with automotive-grade cells certified by over 10 industry standards such as IEC62619 and UL1642, BMS safety that supports 315A for 30 seconds and up to 600A output for less than 3 seconds, and pack-level safety with built-in double safe fuses. Additionally, the batteries are undergoing safety certifications to meet strict standards.
Some new models are designed with advanced Cell-to-Pack (CTP) technologies, a first in the golf cart battery industry. Compared to traditional battery assembly, which involves three stages—cell, module, and pack—CTP technology eliminates the module design and directly integrates cells into a battery. This enables higher integration and increases space efficiency to fit more cart models. With 10 years of design life, over 3,500 times of cycle life, and 5 years of full replacement warranty, ROYPOW lithium golf cart battery solutions provide long-lasting performance and peace of mind for customers.
Another highlight is the New Electric Motor and Controller Lineup. Motors and controllers play a crucial role in enhancing the overall driving experience. They significantly enhance efficiency and ride quality, ensuring smooth acceleration, optimizing battery use, and providing reliable operation across various terrains. Therefore, reliable solutions are essential for enhancing golf cart performance.
ROYPOW offers two competitive solutions powered by ULTRADRIVE TechnologyTM: a 15kW compact 2-in-1 drive motor and a 25kW PMSM motor and controller solution. The former is lightweight and compact integrated with the motor and controller function, offering powerful acceleration and extended driving range. Its permanent magnets and 6-phase hair-pin motor technology ensure high efficiency. With a maximum output of 15kW/60Nm and a speed of 16,000rpm, it delivers exceptional performance, while CANBUS-based battery protection supports safety and extends battery life.
The latter comes with a motor featuring stator technology with flat wire and potting for improved heat dissipation, which delivers over 15 kW continuous and
25 kW peak power. With a double V-shaped magnet, it achieves 115Nm of peak torque and speeds up to 10,000 rpm, with over 94% efficiency. The controller uses a topside-cooled MOSFET design for efficient heat dissipation, integrates Hall sensors for accurate current sampling, and supports resolvers for more accurate position signals and improved torque control precision. It includes Model-Based Design (MBD) for better performance and thermal protection, supports ASIL C-level safety, and provides up to 500 A RMS with 98% efficiency. Both solutions are built to automotive-grade standards, ensuring the highest levels of quality, safety, and durability.
By combining batteries, motors, and controllers with ROYPOW’s self-developed golf cart chargers—designed for optimal battery performance and seamless communication between the charger and the battery—ROYPOW is now offering Complete Power Solutions for Golf Carts.
With four solutions as a whole system, ROYPOW ensures seamless integration and compatibility between products, eliminating performance issues often caused by different brands and guaranteeing enhanced vehicle performance, and unparalleled reliability for golf carts. The one-support product support simplifies maintenance, standardizes aftersales service, and accelerates repair response times, reducing downtime and lowering operating costs. With flexible customization options, the complete solution meets diverse needs, offering customers long-term performance and cost savings.
INNOVATIONS DRIVEN BY COMPETITIVE STRENGTHS
ROYPOW has been committed to providing safe, reliable, and efficient golf cart power solutions, and this commitment owes much to its competitive corporate strengths:
· R&D: A professional R&D team with 200+ personnel specializing in renewable energy solutions with an average of 20 years of experience. Leading Battery Management System (BMS), Power Conversion System (PCS), and Energy Management System (EMS) technologies are all designed in house.
· Manufacturing: 13 advanced production lines including 5 fully automatic lines; 8 GWh/year total production capacity. An
overseas factory with 2 GWh/year capacity is under planning.
· Testing: With a testing facility spanning over 26,909.77 ft², ROYPOW is a CSA and TÜV SÜD-authorized laboratory that meets international (IEC), EU (CE), and North American (UL) standards, covering over 90% of industry-required testing capabilities.
· Quality Control: Intelligent management systems ensure full traceability across the whole process from material purchase to quality inspection.
· Certifications: Certified in the quality management system, occupational health and safety management system, environmental management system, information security management system, social accountability management system, and hazardous substance process management.
· Patents: 202 patents in total as of the third quarter of 2024.
By leveraging these capabilities, ROYPOW continues to set new benchmarks for the industry in 2025.
EVER-EXPANDING GLOBAL SALES AND SERVICE NETWORK
Until now, ROYPOW has established a worldwide network with a manufacturing center in China and subsidiaries in the USA, the UK, Germany, the Netherlands, South Africa, Australia, Japan, and Korea. This helps ROYPOW reach more customers worldwide, delivering localized solutions, innovations, and reliable after-sales services.
COLLABORATIONS AND PARTNERSHIPS WITH LEADING GOLF CART BRANDS
Over the past years, ROYPOW has forged solid partnerships with golf cart brands, manufacturers, and dealers, and it has been recognized as a trusted partner, establishing itself as a preferred choice in the industry. According to thirdparty data, ROYPOW ranked at the top list of the global market share for lithium batteries in golf carts in 2023. This year, ROYPOW looks forward to collaborating with more partners by offering competitive product portfolios and comprehensive support to further consolidate its leadership in the golf cart power solution market.
For further information and inquiry, visit www.roypow.com
SIERRA LSV
HOW A GEORGIA GOLF CART STARTUP WON OVER DEALERS AND CUSTOMERS ALIKE
In an industry where established players often dominate the market, Sierra LSV has made remarkable strides since its January 2024 launch. Based in Thomasville, Georgia, the company has quickly established itself as an innovative force in the low-speed vehicle (LSV) market, earning praise from dealers and customers alike for its commitment to customization, quality, and exceptional customer service.
"We've had a very successful year and pretty much achieved what most first-year companies would have never even thought was possible," says Cody Baggett, Chief Operating Officer of Sierra LSV. "We're up to about
a hundred dealer locations now, and these aren't just small operations – we have some major golf cart dealers that companies larger than us would be proud to have."
Market Response and Customer Service Excellence
Sierra's approach to customer service has set them apart in the industry. The company's commitment to dealer support and rapid response times has earned them a reputation for reliability. This isn't just marketing speak – it's evidenced by their actions. Whether it's the CEO visiting dealers personally or the COO taking dealer calls during meetings, Sierra has made customer service their top priority.
"Our dealer support and customer service has really shown itself," Baggett explains. "On the golf cart side, I don't think dealers are used to seeing this kind of rapid response on parts, service, and tech support that we offer."
2025 MODEL UPDATES AND INNOVATIONS
For 2025, Sierra is introducing significant updates across their product line. The company is updating their range to focus on models AX2 through AX6, with several notable improvements:
• Performance shocks will now be standard across all models, previously only available on their 6-seater variants
• Complete seating overhaul featuring high-back captain's chairs with adjustable headrests and foldable armrests
• Integration of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with a new advanced display system
• Updated LUX-style headlights that reshape the vehicle's front profile
• New RGB underglow lighting options
• A premium soundbar option with plug-and-play installation
"You are going to see a lot of improvements that I don't believe you see in this industry year to year on vehicles," notes Baggett. "Most manufacturers would have said we'd had a really great year, this is a great looking car... and left it at that. But we still made improvements."
FUTURE PLANS
Sierra isn't resting on its first-year successes. The company is actively expanding its distribution network, with plans to open new distribution centers in the Midwest and Northeast regions. Initial locations
are being considered in the Dallas area and Western Pennsylvania to better serve their growing dealer network.
Looking further ahead, Sierra is developing gaspowered options comparable to industry-leading quiet technology and working on lowered vehicle options for the 2026 model year. These developments demonstrate Sierra's commitment to continuous innovation and market responsiveness.
A DIFFERENT KIND OF COMPANY CULTURE
Perhaps what truly sets Sierra apart is its unique company culture. The leadership team, including many who worked together at previous companies, has
golfcartmanufacturer
cultivated an environment that feels more like family than workplace.
"We're not just teammates, we're friends, we're family," says Amber Duncan, Creative Director at Sierra LSV. "There's that care component that sometimes you miss as companies get bigger and bigger. It's truly like a passion project."
This family-oriented culture extends to how the company operates. From the CEO taking on tasks to help busy team members to company events that include employees' families, Sierra maintains a work environment that values every team member's contribution.
"If you create a good environment," says Baggett, "people want to go the extra mile. Make people happy, they'll make the company happy."
As Sierra LSV moves into its second year of operation, this combination of innovative product development, exceptional customer service, and strong company culture positions them well for continued growth in the LSV market. With their commitment to continuous improvement and customer satisfaction, Sierra is proving that there's room for new players who are willing to raise the bar in the industry.
OWNER AND LOCATION
Greg Sandoz of Bay Carts from Louisiana
WHAT YEAR, BRAND, AND MODEL IS THIS CART? It’s a 1996 Club Car DS 36-volt.
HI GREG, TELL US ABOUT THIS CUSTOM BUILD.
We took over 8 inches out of the rear axle, front suspension, and body. The cart was then lowered with quick-release steering and seats. To reduce weight, we installed Allied lithium batteries. We also added a lot of custom aluminum body effects and gave it a custom paint job to match the Prevost Liberty H bus. These carts don’t have roofs, as they’re primarily used in private Class Motor-Coach RV Resorts. The wheels are 14-inch S&S wheels.
DID YOU USE ANY CUSTOM FABRICATION OR CREATE CUSTOM-MADE PARTS?
Yes, we fabricated the front and back bumpers, side skirts, seat brackets, and custom seats. We also created a cover for the old golf bag compartment.
WHAT AFTERMARKET PARTS DID YOU USE?
We used 14-inch S&S wheels, a Madjax steering wheel, and a JEGS quick-release steering wheel hub.
CAN YOU TELL US SOME BACKGROUND ABOUT YOURSELF? HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN BUILDING CARTS, AND HOW DID YOU GET INTO THIS BUSINESS?
This is the sixth cart I’ve built for friends who own Prevost H model buses. These carts are called “Bay Carts” because they fit perfectly into the bay of the bus. I even installed a winch in the bus bay to pull the cart into place. This build took a couple of years, as I was working on another cart at the same time.
WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE PLANS FOR YOU OR YOUR COMPANY?
For now, I’m taking some time away from this hobby.
IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU’D LIKE TO ADD?
Every part of this build is completely custom and one of a kind.
askthemechanic
ASK THE MECHANIC
Q: How do lithium batteries compare to lead-acid batteries?
A: Both lithium and lead-acid batteries store energy through electrochemical reactions, but their key differences lie in their construction materials and performance. Lithium batteries use lithium ions moving between electrodes, while lead-acid batteries rely on a chemical reaction between lead plates and sulfuric acid. These differences give lithium batteries significantly higher energy density, longer lifespan, and faster charging capabilities compared to lead-acid batteries.
KEY POINTS ABOUT LITHIUM BATTERIES:
Chemical Reaction: Lithium ions move between positive and negative electrodes (typically carbon and lithium oxide) in a liquid electrolyte during charging and discharging.
Advantages: High energy density, long lifespan, fast charging, lightweight, and minimal voltage drop during discharge.
KEY POINTS ABOUT LEAD-ACID BATTERIES:
Chemical Reaction: Lead plates react with sulfuric acid to generate electricity during discharge. This reaction reverses during charging.
Disadvantages: Lower energy density, shorter lifespan, heavier, slower charging, and a significant voltage drop as discharge progresses.
Q: Are lithium batteries affected by cold weather, and should I be concerned about freezing temperatures?
A: Yes, cold weather can significantly impact lithium batteries in golf carts. Low temperatures slow down the
chemical reactions within the battery cells, reducing their capacity and discharge rate. This means the battery won’t deliver as much power in freezing conditions.
To protect your lithium batteries during cold weather:
-Store your golf cart in a heated area, such as a garage. -Use battery blankets to keep the batteries warm.
-Ensure the batteries are fully charged before storing the cart in cold conditions.
Q: What are some ways to stay warm in my golf cart?
A: Staying warm in your golf cart is essential for enjoying your ride during colder months. Here are some effective options:
1. Propane Heaters:
These portable heaters are cost-effective and produce heat quickly. They can fit in a cup holder or attach to the cart’s chassis. Be sure to provide proper ventilation to avoid carbon monoxide buildup.
2. Electric Heaters:
Powered by the golf cart’s battery, electric heaters are usually mounted on the dashboard or steering column. While convenient, they may drain the battery faster than other heating options.
3. Infrared Heaters:
Infrared heaters warm objects directly using radiant heat, making them energy efficient. However, they may not be ideal for larger spaces.
Additional Tip:
Invest in a golf cart enclosure to trap heat and block cold winds. This simple addition can make a big difference in staying warm.
