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Letter from the Editor
June is here, and so is one of the most action-packed issues we've put together yet. From a build that must be seen to be believed, to a closer look at how our own annual event is shaping up, to a guide that every cart owner should read before buying their next upgrade — this issue has something for everyone.
THE BUILD THAT STOPPED THE SHOW
Our cover story this month is exactly the kind of feature that reminds me why we do this. Austin Ervans and his father Brad, out of Sarasota, Florida, took a 2002 GEM E4 and turned it into something that genuinely defies description. A fully custom frame. Six-wheel drive. Dual Navitas IPM motors. Full air ride that drops the entire vehicle to the ground. A wing off a Peterbilt semi. And a paint job that ties it all together. Navitas commissioned the build for the PGA Show, and it was one of the most talked-about things on the floor. Read "Ground Up, Aired Out" and you'll see why.
THE EXPO IS COMING — AND IT'S ALREADY MAKING HISTORY
The 2026 GolfCarting Expo and Dealer Summit is October 1-3 in Charleston, South Carolina, and I am genuinely blown away by the response we've seen so far. With 86 confirmed vendors and more than 50,000 square feet of exhibition space already sold out, this year's event is on track to be something special. New this year: Tech Training Booths, outdoor covered test drives, expanded dealer education, and a Friday night concert featuring Jacquie Roar, former finalist on NBC's The Voice. Show Floor passes for dealers are now completely free. Get registered at GolfCartingExpo.com and come join us.
INDUSTRY NEWS
Two noteworthy stories round out the issue. First, Bintelli has earned some well-deserved national recognition: the Bintelli Beyond has been named the 2026 Neighborhood Green Car of the Year by Green Car Journal, putting the Charleston-based LSV manufacturer in the same conversation as Rivian, Lexus, and Ford. It's a big moment for an industry that has worked hard to be taken seriously on the broader EV stage.
And in a move that strengthens one of the industry's most recognized distribution networks, Nivel Parts and Manufacturing has acquired Xtreme Golf Cart Mats, adding the American-engineered floor mat brand to its already extensive catalog. For dealers who already order through Nivel, the integration means one less vendor relationship to manage and one more quality product to offer customers.
And be sure to check out our new GolfCarting Calendar of Events on page 26.
It's a big issue. We hope you enjoy every page of it. Here's to summer!
Matt White Editor matt@golfcarting.com
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GOLF CARTING // Issue 73 // June 2026
Publisher: GC Media Group, LLC
Senior Editor: Matt White - matt@golfcarting.com
Creative Director: Troy Merrifield - troy@golfcarting.com
Production Director: Christian Amico - chris@golfcarting.com
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: matt@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!
©2026 GC Media Group, LLC
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FROM BATTERY UPGRADE TO WHOLE POWER SYSTEM UPGRADE: OPTIMIZING GOLF CART EFFICIENCY AND PERFORMANCE
In today’s U.S. golf cart market, converting from lead-acid to lithium has become a mainstream trend. Upgrading the battery and charger alone can extend range, simplify maintenance, and reduce long-term costs. However, most original motors and controllers are still optimized for lead-acid architecture, meaning lithium’s high-discharge capability and responsiveness cannot be fully utilized, limiting improvements in hill climbing and heavy-load performance. Retrofit faces challenges such as complex installation, lack of compatibility support, and higher failure rates.
As a pioneer in the shift from lead-acid to lithium batteries, ROYPOW has never stopped pushing the boundaries of performance, efficiency, and reliability. Drawing on years of innovation and strong local support, ROYPOW now delivers complete power solutions designed to elevate the driving experience of modern golf carts.
ROYPOW power solutions, comprising battery, motor, controller, and smart charger, ensure systemwide compatibility and optimal synergy. Coordinating all components together, the system delivers enhanced efficiency, improved power delivery, extended mileage, and seamless integration with smart monitoring, providing a truly high-performance, reliable, and easy-to-maintain upgrade.
FEATURES AND BENEFITS
At the core of the system are ROYPOW lithium batteries, delivering stable voltage and high-current output to improve efficiency and reduce maintenance. Designed for long-term performance, the batteries offer up to 3,500 cycles and a 10-year warranty. Paired smart chargers optimize charging cycles to extend battery lifespan, and feature an IP67-rated, vibrationresistant design, multiple safety protections, and an anti-walking function. Both batteries and chargers can be monitored in real time via a Bluetooth-enabled mobile app, giving users remote insight into performance and operating status.
The motor and controller lineup includes three versions. The standard 2-in-1 unit (BLM series) is lightweight and compact, allowing for quick, one-hand installation. The higher-performance 2-in-1 version (BAZ series) delivers increased torque, greater
power output, and improved overall efficiency, with a fully sealed design for superior water resistance and durability. The separated motor and controller system (FLA series) is built for larger carts with six or more seats and more demanding operating conditions.
REAL-WORLD RETROFITS
ROYPOW solutions have been applied as retrofit upgrades for popular golf cart models, including EZGO TXT. The integrated 2-in-1 motor & controller simplifies installation, allowing a full system replacement in around 10 minutes while reducing labor time and associated costs. Its streamlined architecture eliminates three to four wiring harnesses, simplifying wiring and improving overall reliability.
Performance is improved by a hybrid excited synchronous motor (HESM) with permanent magnets, which enhances drive efficiency and delivers up to a 16% increase in driving mileage. Optimized power output supports an extra 20 kg payload, improving hill-climbing capability. Through the dedicated mobile app, users can remotely monitor key parameters and whole-system status in real time, receive instant feedback for predictive maintenance, and manage vehicles more efficiently.
CONCLUSION
Moving forward, ROYPOW continues to lead in golf cart innovation, delivering complete power solutions that maximize performance, efficiency, and reliability, and empowering operators to experience a smarter, more capable ride.
BINTELLI BEYOND NAMED 2026 NEIGHBORHOOD GREEN CAR OF THE YEAR™ BY GREEN CAR JOURNAL
CHARLESTON, SC — Bintelli, a premier manufacturer of ecofriendly electric vehicles (EVs), is proud to announce that the Bintelli Beyond has been honored with the prestigious 2026 Neighborhood Green Car of the Year™ award by Green Car Journal.
The Bintelli Beyond was recognized for its leadership in the low-speed vehicle (LSV) segment, providing a sophisticated, street-legal solution for planned communities, resorts, and urban environments. This accolade highlights Bintelli’s commitment to bridging the gap between traditional golf carts and full-sized electric automobiles.
“Receiving this honor from Green Car Journal is a monumental milestone for Bintelli,” said Justin Jackrel, president at Bintelli. “To be honored alongside the likes of Rivian, Lexus, Jeep, and Ford is no small feat! The Beyond has been engineered to offer the safety and technology of a car with the efficiency of an LSV. Being named Neighborhood Green Car of the Year validates our mission to lead the industry in sustainable micro-mobility.”
Priced between $12,000 and $16,000, the Bintelli Beyond is street-legal on roads posted 35 mph or below. It features essential safety equipment, a sturdy aluminum chassis, and a range of up to 40 miles. The Beyond stands out in its class by offering premium standard features — such as backup cameras, high-back seating, Bluetooth sound systems, and electronic power steering — that provide high-value green transportation without compromise.
“The Bintelli Beyond is ideal for travel within planned
communities where EVs with a limited speed of 25 mph present viable, eco-friendly options,” said Ron Cogan, editor and publisher of Green Car Journal and GreenCarJournal.com
For more information about the award-winning Bintelli Beyond or to find a certified dealer, please visit Bintelli.com.
ABOUT BINTELLI: Now in its 26th year, Bintelli is an awardwinning manufacturer and distributor of EVs, including streetlegal golf carts, LSVs, and electric bicycles. Headquartered in Charleston, South Carolina, Bintelli focuses on providing the highest quality eco-friendly transportation solutions through its extensive nationwide dealer network.
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NIVEL PARTS & MANUFACTURING EXPANDS PREMIUM ACCESSORY PORTFOLIO WITH ACQUISITION OF XTREME GOLF CART MATS
Jacksonville, FL. – May 1, 2026 – Nivel, the industry leader in aftermarket solutions for personal transportation vehicles (PTV), proudly announces the acquisition of Xtreme Golf Cart Mats, the premier provider of high-quality, custom-fit golf cart floor mats.
This strategic acquisition reinforces Nivel’s commitment to delivering industry-leading innovation and style to golf cart owners and dealers worldwide. Xtreme Golf Cart Mats has earned a reputation for superior craftsmanship and durability. Every mat is designed and engineered in America, ensuring a precision fit that protects vehicle flooring from debris, water, and wear. By integrating Xtreme Golf Cart Mats, Nivel strengthens its position as the ultimate one-stop shop for vehicle customization and protection.
“We were attracted to Xtreme Golf Cart Mats for their unwavering dedication to excellence, their 'gold standard' approach to product design, and speed to market for new fitments,” said Donnie Jouppi, Chief Executive Officer of Nivel. “Adding their American-engineered golf floor mats to our catalog allows us to offer our customers a level of interior protection and aesthetic appeal that is simply unmatched in the industry.”
Nivel plans to leverage its extensive distribution network to make Xtreme Golf Cart Mats products more accessible than ever. Customers can expect:
• Continued Innovation: Collaborative engineering focused on expanding the fitment catalog for new vehicle models.
• Premium Quality: Maintenance of the rigorous manufacturing standards that Xtreme Golf Cart Mats customers have come to rely on.
• Ease of Ordering: Ability to order through Nivel at the same time as their other parts, accessories, and Bolt batteries.
This acquisition marks another milestone in Nivel’s aggressive growth strategy, focusing on brands that prioritize quality and American-led design.
“Every mat we've ever made started with one question: would I put this in my own cart? That standard is what built Xtreme Golf Cart Mats from the ground up into the best-fitting, longest-lasting mat in the industry. Nivel has the network and resources to put that product in front of every golf cart owner in the country and that's exactly what I wanted for this brand.” said Brandon Burkey, CEO of Xtreme Golf Cart Mats."
For information on becoming a Nivel Dealer in the US, please visit: www.nivelparts.com/dealer-registration
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ABOUT NIVEL SPECIALTY VEHICLES:
For over 59 years Nivel has been redefining the Personal Transportation Vehicle (PTV), Off Road Vehicle (ORV), Heavy Duty (HD), and Automotive experience with innovation, style, and functionality. Nivel’s commitment to quality ensures durability and reliability, From sleek custom designs to practical utility enhancements, Nivel manufactures today’s best brands in these industries, many right here in the U.S.
CALENDAR of EVENTS
June 7, 2026, 2026
GRUDGE BOYS RACING SUMMER FEST
North East Dragway, 1099 Lake Road, Hertford, North Carolina
Grudge racing battles, cash prize runs, live DJ, food vendors, family-friendly fun.
https://golfcarting.com/event/grudge-boysracing-summer-fest/
June 13, 2026
THE AMAZING RACE
Sanford, Florida
Two-person teams going around the “world” to compete at 15 local spots
https://golfcarting.com/event/sanford-golf-cartgurus-amazing-race/
June 20, 2026
THE GREAT GOLF CART GATHERING
301 3rd St, Fairport Harbor, Ohio 44077
A community event where golf carts take over the harbor for a day of fun, creativity, and cruising by the lake. https://golfcarting.com/event/the-greatgolf-cart-gathering/
June 27, 2026
GOLF CART DRAG RACING
Newtown Dragway, Newtown, Virginia
Dirt track racing; Golf Carts, Side-by-Sides, Motorcycles, and More https://golfcarting.com/event/golf-cart-dragracing/
Friday-Sunday, July 24-26, 2026
SANFORD LIFESTYLE CARTFEST
Sanford, Florida
Full weekend of golf carts! Showcase, Golf Cart Cruise, Live Music, Food Trucks https://www.SanfordCartFest.com
Wednesday-Saturday, October 1-3, 2026
GOLFCARTING EXPO & DEALER SUMMIT
Charleston, South Carolina
The industry's first and only dedicated annual event showcasing innovative products, services, and companies while providing comprehensive education to golf cart dealers. https://www.GolfCartingExpo.com
SHARE YOUR EVENT
Share your upcoming golf carting event at golfcarting.com/event-submission
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The GEM Car Build That Nobody Saw Coming
There are custom builds. There are wild builds. And then there is whatever Austin Ervans and his father Brad have created in Sarasota, Florida — a machine so far outside the boundaries of what anyone would expect from a GEM Car that calling it a custom build almost feels like an insult to the word "custom."
This is a statement. And it made one of the biggest ones at the 2026 PGA Show in Orlando.
THE BEGINNING: A BLANK SLATE CALLED A GEM
The foundation is a 2002 GEM E4, a humble, narrow, utilitarian little electric vehicle that has spent most of its life ferrying passengers around airports, campuses, and resorts. Nothing about the original platform would suggest what it was about to become.
Austin started his company, Ace Performance and Repairs, at 16 years old, growing up in a golf course community where carts were always around and always getting worked on. "We always were working on our carts, making them faster, bigger and cooler," he says. "Everybody would just pull up to our house and ask if I could work on their cart." That informal reputation turned into a business, which turned into something much bigger when Austin and Brad decided to take a GEM Car to its absolute limit.
What they built doesn't just push the envelope. It throws the envelope out entirely, rebuilds it from scratch in custom acrylic, and mounts it on a six-by-six dual-axle air ride frame that drops completely to the ground at the touch of a button.
THE BUILD: WHERE ENGINEERING MEETS OBSESSION
Start with the frame, because nothing on this build makes
sense without it. Brad
designed and fabricated a completely custom frame from the ground up, engineered around a dual cantilever suspension system with a dual Watts link setup. When the air ride raises or lowers the vehicle, the Watts link keeps everything aligned, preventing any lateral movement. It is precise, purposeful engineering dressed up in something that looks like it belongs on a movie set.
The air management system runs on AccuAir, with a Chad Criss Design controller and an ENDO-VT tank. Each air bag is individually controllable, so the ride height can be tuned corner by corner, or the fronts and rears can be managed together. At full lift, it takes nearly 100 pounds of pressure per bag to raise this machine. And this vehicle has some weight to it. Austin estimates it comes in just over 2,000 pounds.
The four rear tires are nearly 15.5 inches wide, mounted on 20-inch TIS wheels. Super ATV power steering keeps the massive setup manageable at the helm.
This is a true six-by-six configuration, with both rear axles powered, driven by a pair of Navitas 10kW IPM motors paired with dual 850-amp TAC3 IPM controllers. Two 73.6-volt Bolt Energy lithium batteries feed the system, giving the build the energy reserves needed to push that kind of power through
Ervans
two driven axles. Austin had it up to 55 miles per hour on the road before the show, though he wasn't about to push it to its limits with the PGA Show just around the corner.
The custom 3D-printed center console houses the air gauge setup, which Austin converted from old hooliganstyle yellow bulbs to custom green LEDs that light up in full. The dash features a 10-inch Navitas display. A custom acrylic windshield was built in-house. And somewhere in there, a Hornblasters train horn taps into the onboard air system, because of course it does.
Then there's the wing. Austin found a spoiler off a Peterbilt semi-truck, eight feet wide and beat up from a previous life on an 18-wheeler. He bought it for reference, then rebuilt the entire thing from scratch, reskinning it and fabricating new end caps before cutting it down to 66 inches to fit the build. Inside the wing: lights, speaker wiring for the rear tower speakers, and connections for the taillights. It sits across the back of this machine like a crown.
The paint was handled by KBMER…custom, complex, and exactly as insane as everything else on the build.
THE TECHNOLOGY BEHIND THE POWER
For Navitas Vehicle Systems, this build was more than a showpiece. Every year at the PGA Show, Navitas makes it a point to arrive with something bigger and better than the year before, and for 2026 they commissioned Ace Performance to make that happen. The result was a build that turned the Navitas booth into one of the most talked-about stops on the show floor.
Todd Dussault, Director of Sales at Navitas, was on hand at the PGA Show and didn't mince words about what the build represents. "They took a GEM Car and made it extreme, to bring people to our booth and to really talk about Navitas," he said. "The vehicle is highlighting our TAC3 IPM controllers and IPM motors. These controllers and motors have more torque than AC, more efficient than AC. It's going to be the future for OEMs moving to this technology."
After the PGA Show, Navitas moved the build to the Canadian International Auto Show as part of a broader push
into automotive markets. It's a deliberate move, proving out the technology on larger, more demanding platforms before expanding their reach beyond the golf cart and LSV space.
Meanwhile, Austin and Brad have launched a second company, GEM Cars Modified, developing a Navitas-powered drop-in system for GEM Cars. The PGA Show build was a proof of concept, a crowd magnet, and a business card all in one.
DEFINITELY ONE OF ONE
When Austin was asked to describe the build in one phrase, he didn't hesitate. "Crazy," he said. "Definitely one of one."
He's right. On a show floor full of polished LSVs and big name golf brands, this GEM Car stopped people in their tracks. It has the engineering depth of a serious performance build, the visual drama of a custom show car, and the audacity of something that simply shouldn't exist, but absolutely does.
Whatever you thought a GEM Car could be, Austin and Brad Ervans just changed the answer.
GCMOD IS NOW THE DEALER-DIRECT SOURCE FOR X COMP GOLF AND TRAILER TIRES. SIGN UP TODAY AND START OFFERING INDUSTRY-LEADING TIRE PERFORMANCE TO YOUR CUSTOMERS. X COMP GOLF X/T
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PARTS OF ME ARE PRETTY
AWESOME
ITHE POWER OF EMBRACING
love this quote, because it's fun and shows a little personality. There's a small bit of humility, then SMACK, not really!
But, digging a little deeper, being "perfect" is hard, impossible even. But, if you're like me, sometimes you really strive for perfection. The perfect father. The perfect friend, businessman, Christian, editor, whatever.
HOW CRAZY IS THAT?
I know I'm not perfect and never will be, yet when I fall short of perfection, I get frustrated and feel disappointed with myself. Stupid, right? It's like I'm just setting myself up for failure. Why not just aim a little lower??
But, that's not the point. The goal is not to cut my expectations down, so they're more "realistic," the point is to continue to strive for perfection, but give myself a break when I don't reach it. Then, get up and try again, and again and again and again.
LESS THAN PERFECT SHOWS WE'RE HUMAN, IT SHOWS WE'RE REAL AND HONEST.
In business, the same is true. Often, we're afraid to show any weakness or imperfection at all. But, it's in the imperfections that we build credibility. Answering a question with "I don't know" makes you extremely vulnerable; but it shows that you're not perfect, and that leads to credibility. Then, you can go find the answer, which leads to more credibility.
IMPERFECTION
There are very few professions where being perfect is necessary. I wouldn't want my heart surgeon NOT to be perfect! But, for most of us, we're not in a life or death situation.
NOT BEING PERFECT IS OKAY.
I'd much rather work with someone who has admitted to making a mistake and learning from it, and that he's still not perfect, but continues to learn and grow in his craft. Working with that guy is much better than dealing with the person who thinks he's perfect, then tries to hide any mistakes or blames someone else when something doesn't go as planned.
THE SAME IS TRUE WITH YOUR CUSTOMERS.
Restaurants are a perfect example. It's REALLY hard to be PERFECT - especially when people can be so picky, right? Sometimes things just don't go as planned - a burger may not be cooked perfectly to the request of the patron, or service may not be perfect for a number of reasons (new staff, a big crowd, etc.).
The worst thing to do in these situations is to fight back, trying to defend yourself for NOT being perfect!
Instead, admit you're not perfect. Apologize and offer to make it up or ask for another try. These are the moments when credibility is built.
- Matt White, Editor, GolfCarting Magazine
BY BOBBY DIAZ, SENIOR BATTERY PRODUCT MANAGER, FORMER FOUNDER, BOLT ENERGY
THE MOST DEALER-FRIENDLY BATTERY ON THE PLANET MEANS A BETTER RIDE FOR YOU
hen most golf cart owners think about switching to lithium, they think about the fun stuff first — more range, faster charging, stronger power, less weight, and no more dealing with messy lead-acid batteries.
And honestly… who doesn’t want that?
But there is another big part of owning a great lithium battery that many people do not think about until they actually need help — how easy that battery is for a dealer to install, diagnose, and support.
That may not sound exciting at first. But it should. Because when a battery is easier for your dealer to work with, your life gets easier too.
That has always been Bolt’s mission: build the most dealer-friendly golf cart battery on the planet.
Why?
Because when dealers have better tools, smarter technology, and faster support, customers spend less time worrying and more time enjoying their carts.
That means fewer headaches. Less downtime. Faster answers. Better service. And a better overall ride.
Bolt Lithium Batteries were built specifically for golf carts and PTVs — not generic battery systems made for random applications. They were designed around how people actually use golf carts every day: cruising neighborhoods, running around campgrounds, exploring hunting properties, enjoying resorts, tackling off-road trails, or simply getting from point A to point B with confidence.
SAFETY MATTERS, TOO.
Let’s be honest — many people still hear the word lithium and think about
scary news headlines. That is understandable. But not all lithium batteries are built the same. Bolt was engineered with advanced battery protection systems that help monitor temperature, voltage, current, and overall battery health. In simple terms, that means smarter protection and dependable performance built for real-world use.
Then there is one of Bolt’s biggest game changers — Bluetooth-enabled diagnostics.
If a battery issue ever comes up, dealers can often identify concerns faster and with better accuracy. That means less guessing, quicker troubleshooting, reduced downtime, and faster support when you need it most.
As Bolt continued to lead in the lithium golf cart battery space, that innovation caught the attention of Nivel Parts & Manufacturing, one of the largest golf cart parts distributors in the world. Together, Bolt and Nivel continue pushing battery technology forward while supporting dealers and customers across the golf cart industry.
AND THEN THERE IS PEACE OF MIND.
Bolt backs its batteries with an "Industry - leading 12-year transferrable warranty”. That is huge. For customers, it means confidence knowing your battery was built for performance, reliability, safety, and years of dependable use.
At the end of the day, a battery should do more than power your golf cart. It should help power the experience.
More freedom. More confidence. More fun. More ride time.
That is why Bolt continues to stand apart — by making the dealer’s job easier, the customer’s experience better, and the future of golf cart power stronger.
For more information call 727-955-4955
A Father-and-Son Golf Cart Build Bringing Awareness to Autism
GOLF CART: 2016 Club Car Precedent
LOCATION: Ashland
BUILDER: Brian Barber
COMPANY: Double B Custom Carts
TELL US ABOUT THIS CUSTOM BUILD.
Hello, my name is Brian Barber, and my son Matthew Barber is 15 years old and autistic. We set out to build this golf cart together so we could take it to car shows, school functions, camping trips, parades, and anywhere else we can to help bring awareness to autism.
This project became more than just building a custom cart. It gave us quality time together in the garage turning wrenches, creating memories, and sharing something meaningful with other people.
WHAT CUSTOM FABRICATION WORK WAS DONE ON THE CART?
We had to custom fabricate brackets to mount the front bumper properly.
WHAT AFTERMARKET PARTS AND UPGRADES DID YOU USE?
The cart is running a Navitas 850 amp controller with a 7.5kW motor setup. Power comes from a Trojan OnePack 48V 170Ah lithium battery system.
Other upgrades include:
• Xtreme Mats flooring
• Alpha body kit
• Custom airbrushed paint
• Rhino sound system
• Jake’s long-travel suspension
• Jake’s disc brakes
We wanted the cart to stand out while still being something we could enjoy together as a family.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN BUILDING CARTS, AND HOW DID YOU GET STARTED?
I’ve been building carts for about 10 years as a hobby. I mostly work
on friends’ carts, and every now and then word-of-mouth brings someone else to me for work.
Honestly, I just enjoy getting out in the garage and working alongside my son. That’s what it’s really about for me.
WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE PLANS FOR THE HOBBY OR BUSINESS?
Right now, it’s still just a hobby that I work on during evenings and weekends.
IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU’D LIKE PEOPLE TO KNOW?
“Just remember kids with autism are not bad behaviors. They’re just different. Let them stim. Love them with everything you have.”
BIGGER, BETTER, AND BREAKING RECORDS
The second annual GolfCarting Expo & Dealer Summit is shaping up to exceed even our most optimistic projections. After a successful inaugural event last October that drew over 1,100 attendees, the 2026 show (October 1-3 in Charleston, SC) has already achieved a milestone we didn't anticipate: a completely sold-out exhibition floor.
UNPRECEDENTED GROWTH
With 86 confirmed vendors—nearly double last year's exhibitors—we've filled over 50,000 square feet of exhibition space at the Charleston Area Convention Center. This tremendous response from the industry demonstrates what we believed from the beginning: golf carts deserve their own dedicated trade event.
golfcartingindustryexpo
The overwhelming vendor commitment has allowed us to make an exciting announcement for dealers: Show Floor Only Dealer Passes are now just $49 through July 31. Dealers can access three days of exhibition space, networking opportunities, and product demonstrations for just $49. (We have issued a refund for those who already purchased Show Floor Only passes.)
NEW FEATURES FOR 2026
Building on last year's foundation, we're introducing several enhancements designed to maximize value for both dealers and exhibitors. New Tech Training Booths will provide handson access to the latest technology and products throughout
Thursday and Friday. Additionally, Outdoor Covered Test Drive opportunities will allow dealers to experience vehicles and equipment in real-world conditions.
The education component continues to expand with sessions covering everything from lithium battery fundamentals to advanced marketing strategies, all designed specifically for golf cart dealers' unique challenges and opportunities. These comprehensive education sessions are exclusive to All-Access VIP Passholders.
ENTERTAINMENT ELEVATED
Friday night's GolfCarting Expo After Dark concert will feature headline performer Jacquie Roar, former finalist on NBC's
golfcartingindustryexpo
The Voice. The evening kicks off at 5:00 PM with Happy Hour on the show floor, transitions to Hall A at 6:00 PM for a preconcert party, includes the Golf Cart Resource Red Carpet Award Ceremony at 7:30 PM, and culminates with Jacquie Roar taking the stage at 8:00 PM. This event is free to all registered attendees—dealers, vendors, and speakers alike.
FINAL OPPORTUNITIES
For dealers wanting the complete experience, All-Access VIP Dealer Passes remain available at early bird pricing of $269 through July 31 (regular price $299). These passes include everything: three-day show floor access, VIP parties and events, all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), the After Dark concert, and access to all education seminars.
Saturday's Expo Floor and GolfCarting Showcase will open to the public with free admission available at golfcartingexpo. com.
LOOKING AHEAD
The positive feedback from 2025 attendees—both dealers and exhibitors—has energized our planning for this year's event. We heard what worked, what could improve, and what people wanted to see more of. The result is an expanded, enhanced experience that stays true to our original vision: creating the premier gathering place for the golf cart industry.
For complete details, venue information, and registration, visit www.GolfCartingExpo.com or email events@golfcarting. com. We'll see you in Charleston this October.
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askthemechanic
ASK THE MECHANIC
Q: Can I replace just one dead lead acid battery in my pack?
A: It is generally not recommended. Batteries age together and if you put a brand-new battery in a set of 4-year-old batteries, the charger will struggle to balance them. The new battery will likely be overcharged and its lifespan significantly shortened. If the pack is over 3 years old, replace the whole set.
Q: How do I diagnose a faulty Solenoid versus a faulty starter/generator?
A: In gas carts, these two components are often confused. The solenoid is an electromagnetic switch, while the starter/ generator physically turns the engine over. Set your multimeter to DC volts. Place the probes on the two large terminals of the solenoid. With the key on and the pedal pressed, you should hear a "click. If you hear the click but the voltage doesn't drop to near zero across those two terminals, the solenoid internal contacts are fried. If the solenoid is sending power through but the engine won't spin, the brushes in your starter/generator are likely worn out and need replacement.
Q: Why do resistors fail?
A: Resistors usually die because of a shorted controller or a stuck solenoid. If the controller is drawing too much power while the solenoid is open, it will pull all that current through the tiny resistor, essentially turning it into a lightbulb filament until it snaps. If you replace a burnt resistor and the new one immediately gets hot or glows, stop as you likely have a
shorted motor or a failed controller that is sucking too much juice.
Q: What is "Speed Sensor Limp Mode" and how is it fixed?
A: SEPEX (non-series) drive carts use a speed sensor on the end of the motor to monitor RPM. If this sensor fails, the onboard controller enters a "limp mode" to prevent damage. If your cart moves very slowly (approx. 8 mph) even with the pedal floored, and the "regen braking" (the buzzing sound when the cart rolls freely) stops working. This is usually a faulty hall effect sensor or a cracked magnet on the motor shaft. You can test it by pushing the cart manually with the "Run/Tow" switch in run. If the walk-away brake alarm doesn't beep, the sensor or magnet is defective.
Q: How does the Club Car MCOR affect throttle response?
A: Modern Club Cars use a Motor Controller Output Regulator (MCOR) instead of an old-fashioned potentiometer. If your cart stutters, hesitates, or won't reach top speed until the pedal is pumped several times it’s a good chance your MCOR is faulty. The internal resistive track of the MCOR develops "dead spots."
A common advanced diagnostic is by checking the purple wire (for older models) or checking the signal voltage. On a healthy MCOR, you should see a smooth transition from approx .05v (idle) to 4.5v (full throttle) on the signal wire. If the voltage jumps or drops out, the MCOR must be replaced.
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