Golf Carting Magazine Issue 76 September 2026

BUILT BY GOLF CART ENTHUSIASTS HOW BA PARTS IS RAISING THE STANDARD

GOLFCARTING.COM

September 2026 Issue 76

GOLF CARTING MAGAZINE 1121 PARK WEST BLVD B214 MOUNT PLEASANT, SC 29466

CHIP MOTORS DEBUTS NEW LIFE UTILITY VEHICLE

GOLF CARTS MODIFIED CALLING ALL DEALERS! 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

X COMP GOLF A/T

22X11R12 23X10R12 205/35R12 215/40R12

18X9.5R10 20X10R10 20X10R12 23X10R12

215/50R12 23X10R14 205/35R14 23X10R15

20X8.5R14 23X10R14 23X10R15

*ALL X COMP GOLF X/T’S COVERED BY U.S. PATENT NUMBER: D973,576 S

X COMP TIRES ARE NOW AVAILABLE THROUGH GCMOD! BENEFITS: - JON RAHM X COMP GOLF BRAND AMBASSADOR - TURF FRIENDLY DESIGN - ENHANCES RIDE AND PERFORMANCE - STEEL AND FABRIC BELTED RADIALS FOR INCREASED HANDLING AND SAFETY

D.O.T. “TURF FRIENDLY” OFF ROAD APPROVED STAMPED ON SIDEWALL CAPABLE

MAJOR PERFORMANCE FOR A MAJOR CHAMPION!

X COMP GOLF H/T

GLADIATOR GOLF A/P

215/40R12

215/35R14

18x8.5R8

205/40R12

215/50R12

215/50R14

205/50R10

215/50R12

205/65R10

GCMOD.COM

GOLFCARTSMODIFIED

XCOMPTIRES.COM

XCOMP_TIRES

FULLY INTEGRATED REPLACEMENT OPTIONS EZGO Gen1 and Gen2 Club Car LG Gen1, Gen2, and Vanguard Gen1 Also available for Evolution, Denago and more!

REVIVE YOUR DEAD FACTORY LITHIUM CART TODAY!

®

Letter from the Editor WHEN PARTS SUPPLIERS GET IT RIGHT BA Parts is our company profile this month, and they're a perfect example of what happens when a supplier decides to actually listen to consumers and dealers. It's a small but important distinction in how business gets done.

Can you believe it's almost Fall? For some, that means the weather is cooling off a bit and carts will be used more often.

For others, leaves will start changing soon and cart owners will start thinking about storing their vehicles for the winter. And like Fall, this month's issue captures a market in transition. New entrants, new conversations, new approaches to old problems.

It's a fun time to be in this industry, for sure!

SANFORD'S BIG WEEKEND Our cover story this month features the inaugural Sanford Lifestyle CartFest, and I'm going to be honest with you: I didn't know exactly what to expect when we pulled this together.

What happened that weekend exceeded every expectation we had. Read the full story to see how it all came together.

THE ACCOUNTABILITY CONVERSATION Michael Alexander from the Low-Speed Vehicle Dealer Association weighs in on something every dealer needs to think about. The business landscape is shifting, and he lays out what that means for your operation.

A NEW CATEGORY EMERGES Chip Motors just launched something called a Life Utility Vehicle (LUV), and it's interesting because it's built for the gap that golf carts accidentally filled. If you've been wondering what's next in this space, this is worth reading about.

OCTOBER IN CHARLESTON The GolfCarting Expo & Dealer Summit is October 1-3 in Charleston. If you're a dealer, this is where the industry connects and you see what's ahead. If you're a consumer interested in exploring what's new, Saturday is free and open to the public. Grab your tickets online at www.GolfCartingExpo.com.

Enjoy the ride!

Matt White Editor matt@golfcarting.com 6 www.GolfCarting.com

EcoCast and LEDcast.

One tap. One system.

Total sync of your audio & LED lighting.

Marine Grade Radios

Battery Powered Tower Speakers

Wired Speakers

Subwoofers

LED Whips and Strips

Soundbars

ULSE NEW P AR! B SOUND

Check out our custom mounts for your favorite golf cart/UTV/boat!

www.SOUNDEXTREME.com For Dealer Inquiries: dealers@ecoxgear.com The SoundExtreme by ECOXGEAR soundbars are protected under patents 9,307,307 B2, 11,223,886, D937244S1 and numerous others.

HINGED DOOR ENCLOSURES

CLUB CAR

EVOLUTION

Includes Modular Roofs

EZGO

YAMAHA

ICON

UTILITY CARTS

Includes Modular Roofs

4 PASS EZGO

4 PASS CLUB CAR

4 PASS ICON

4 PASS EVOLUTION

6 PASS EZGO

EVOLUTION D5 / DMAX

DoorWorks Hinged Door soluuons for over 70 vehicles!

• Easy Install: includes detailed instructions and hardware.

• Versatile Hinged Doors: The DoorWorks doors can be lock closed, locked open with the Over-the-Top standout latches, or removed all together.

• Available 2, 4, 6 and 8 Passenger Vehicles.

• Made for popular models including Club Car, EZGO, Evolution, ICON, AdvancedEV, Yamaha and more.

1-866-888-3667

Orders@DWParts.com

BECOME A DEALER

M

A

G

A

Z

I

N

E

GOLF CARTING // Issue 76 // September 2026 Publisher: Senior Editor: Creative Director: Production Director: Staff Writer / Social Media:

GC Media Group, LLC Matt White - matt@golfcarting.com Troy Merrifield - troy@golfcarting.com Christian Amico - chris@golfcarting.com 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 Stay connected with Golf Carting Magazine

https://www.facebook.com/golfcarting https://www.instagram.com/golfcartingmag/ www.golfcarting.com

PAGE 28 FEATURES CONTENTS 28 ISSUE 76 SEPTEMBER 2026

BUILT BY GOLF CART ENTHUSIASTS HOW BA PARTS IS RAISING THE STANDARD September 2026 Issue 76

COVER STORY: MADJAX® KINECT™ TOUCHSCREEN

36 DEALER EDUCATION 40 BATTERY BUZZ 42 THE NEW ERA OF ACCOUNTABILITY 46 BA PARTS: BUILT BY GOLF CART ENTHUSIASTS

DEPARTMENTS

GOLFCARTING.COM

ON

GOLF CARTING MAGAZINE 1121 PARK WEST BLVD B214 MOUNT PLEASANT, SC 29466

CHIP MOTORS DEBUTS NEW LIFE UTILITY VEHICLE

06 EDITOR'S NOTE 16 INDUSTRY NEWS 22 GOLF CARTING CALENDAR OF EVENTS 48 GOLF CART NATION 56 ASK THE MECHANIC 58 READER'S RIDES

Designed for comfort.

Built for gravity-defying profits.

Powered by Bintelli

TM

Secure an exclusive territory with an industry giant and watch your bottom line eclipse the competition.

Turnkey, Street-Legal Inventory

Dealer Support You Can Trust

Protected Showroom Territories

Localized Lead Generation and Marketing Support

BECOME A DEALER Scan now to get more info on maximizing your dealer profits with Sivo!

Visit sivogolfcarts.com

latestindustrynews CHIP MOTORS DEBUTS NEW LIFE UTILITY VEHICLE INTRODUCES NEW CATEGORY OF EV, MADE FOR LIFE CLOSE TO HOME Chip Motors has debuted a new category of vehicle, built from the ground up. Chip, a Life Utility Vehicle (LUV) is an electric vehicle designed to make life feel bigger and lighter at the same time. Founded with a mission to democratize safe, pointto-point transportation, the Chip team believes that autonomy shouldn’t be a luxury, a mobility solution isn’t a privilege, and that safety is non-negotiable.

Available in four-seater and six-seater options, Chip can travel up to 25 miles per hour with a range of 100 miles.

What can Chip do?

• Chip talks. A friendly AI sidekick who lives in your car and your family group chat, and helps you get through the day.

• Chip Go! Say the word and a real human driver takes the wheel remotely to handle the boring parts. Parking, pickups, errands, heading home when you want to stay out.

• Customizable. Countless colors and accessories, including the “Party in the Funk” package with a TV and speakers.

• Easy to clean. The interior hoses out, and the textured plastic panels are a breeze to clean - so sand, spills, and

16 www.GolfCarting.com

everyday chaos wash away.

• Built to haul. Room up front for a stroller and a center pass-through fit for plywood. Chip handles the groceries, the gear, the kids, and the dog.

Chip co-founder, Jameson Detweiler, has spent the last two years building Chip, after a nagging observation about US mobility became an obsession: there's a gap in American transportation, and it's pushing families toward unsafe or expensive options for their daily travel.

“During the pandemic, something happened. The golf carts escaped the golf communities, and were adopted widely and rapidly by families in markets where you could have the doors off basically year round, or in seasonal markets too; and it just turns out a lot of people are doing this,” said Jameson Detweiler, co-founder of Chip.

Before Chip, Detweiler spent nearly a decade on the building blocks of autonomy, the technology that helps vehicles understand where they are and what's around them — digital maps, computer vision, driver assistance.

“The upgraded golf cart form factor is the one that, by and large, almost everyone was buying, in spite of the fact that they're not built for roads. There's no real category-defining, purpose-built product and no great brands in the space, and that's what ultimately needed to happen. We are taking that on,” Detweiler continued.

The team is building Chip for what is needed today, and for what's ahead. Autonomous vehicles will soon diverge into two distinct categories: electric vehicles you share for commutes and long trips (like Waymo), and vehicles you own for everything else. Chip is built for the second, autonomyready from day one Reservations are open nationwide for $250, fully refundable any time. The four-seat starts at $15,000; the sixseat at $18,000. Reserving holds your place in line for delivery.

Reserve your Chip now.

3

LITHIUM

YOU SHOULD DECIDE WHEN YOUR DAY IS OVER, NOT YOUR BATTERY.

T R OJ A N' S L I T H I U M O N E PAC K FA M I LY KE E P S YO U G O I N G WI T H: R A N G E S O F U P TO 7 5 M I L E S A DVA N C E D S A F E T Y F E AT U R E S M A I N T E N A N C E-F R E E D E S I G N

DISCOVER THE ONEPACK TROJANBATTERY.COM

RISE ABOVE THE COMPETITION WITH Powered by Bintelli

TM

Secure an exclusive territory with ActivEV to capture premium lifestyle buyers and reach the absolute peak of your retail market.

Turnkey, Street-Legal Inventory

Dealer Support You Can Trust

Protected Showroom Territories

Localized Lead Generation and Marketing Support

SCAN NOW to get more info on maximizing your dealer profits with ActivEV!

Visit activegolfcarts.com

latestindustrynews

THE COUNTDOWN IS ON. DON'T MISS CHARLESTON. With the second annual GolfCarting Expo & Dealer Summit just weeks away, organizers are issuing a final call to dealers who have not yet registered for the golf cart industry's largest gathering, taking place October 1-3 at the Charleston Area Convention Center.

This year's Expo has already sold out its exhibition floor, with more than 80 vendors confirmed to showcase the newest products, technology, and innovations shaping the industry.

Attendees will also have access to more than 30 education sessions covering the topics most relevant to running and growing a successful dealership.

"This is truly the last chance for dealers to secure their spot before the doors open in Charleston," said Matt White, Editor of GolfCarting Magazine and Expo Co-Founder. "In just our second year, this event has grown into something dealers tell us they can't get anywhere else, and we can't wait to welcome them back to Charleston."

Beyond the show floor and education sessions, the 2026 Expo is packed with networking and entertainment throughout the three-day event. Thursday night features the VIP Dealer Party, bringing dealers, exhibitors, and speakers together for an evening of dinner and entertainment. Friday night caps the Show with GolfCarting Expo After Dark, a live

20 www.GolfCarting.com

concert headlined by Jacquie Roar, alongside the Golf Cart Resource Red Carpet Awards Ceremony.

"Whether you're there for the education, the exhibitors, or the networking, this event is built to help dealers walk away with real value," said Nick DiStasio, Owner of Carts Inc. and Expo Co-Founder. "We don't want any dealer to miss out because they waited too long to register."

With passes selling quickly, organizers are encouraging dealers to register as soon as possible to secure their spot.

Multiple pass options are available to fit a range of budgets and interests, from full access to show-floor-only options.

Dealers interested in attending can register online at GolfCartingExpo.com. For questions about registration or the event, dealers can contact the Expo team at events@ golfcartingexpo.com.

ABOUT THE GOLFCARTING EXPO & DEALER SUMMIT Now in its second year, the GolfCarting Expo & Dealer Summit is the golf cart industry's premier annual event for dealers, bringing together exhibitors, educators, and industry professionals for three days of networking, learning, and business growth. The 2026 event takes place October 1-3 in Charleston, South Carolina.

DRIVE LIKE IT’S PROTECTED

*Liability coverage for one golf cart, excluding state fees and taxes. $75 premium not available in MA. Progressive Casualty Insurance Co. & affiliates. Coverage subject to policy terms. Prices vary based on how you buy.

1- 800 -PROGRESSIVE / PROGRESSIVE .COM/GOLF- C ART

With Golf Cart basic liability coverage for as little as $75/year,* you can explore the neighborhood with confidence, knowing you’re prepared for the good times and when you need insurance too.

Quote online in as little as three minutes

eventscalendar

CALENDAR of EVENTS

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2026, 3:00-10:00PM CARTIN’ TARPON 3RD ANNUAL POKER RUN Brighter Days Brewing Company, Tarpon Springs, FL Roll, ride, walk, or cruise — however you want to get there and in between, everyone’s welcome at the Cartin’ Tarpon Charity Poker Run! This fun, community-driven event takes you on a lively tour of Tarpon Springs while raising money for a cause that changes lives. https://golfcarting.com/event/cartin-tarpon-3rdannual-poker-run/ SATURDAY-SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 12-13, 2026 NOPI/GCDRA (GOLF CART DRAG RACING ASSOCIATION) Echopark Speedway, Hampton, Georgia The Golf Cart Drag Racing Association (GCDRA), powered by Navitas Vehicle Systems, will officially make its debut at the NOPI Nationals at EchoPark Speedway in Hampton, Georgia, bringing highperformance golf cart drag racing to the iconic NOPI stage. https://golfcarting.com/event/nopi-golf-cartdrag-racing-association/

THURSDAY-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

FRIDAY-SATURDAY, OCTOBER 2-3, 2026 CRUZIN THE GROVE Twin Grove RV Resort & Cottages, Pine Grove, PA Laid back event at Twin Grove RV Park. Show open to golf carts and go carts. No SXS or 4-wheelers. https://golfcarting.com/event/cruzin-the-grove/

SHARE YOUR EVENT Share your upcoming golf carting event at golfcarting.com/event-submission 24 www.GolfCarting.com

STEP INTO THE

GAME

VERTEZ ADJUSTABLE BUCKET

Yamaha Club Car EZ Go Star - UNRIVAL ED comfort, design & quality

www.golfseats.com 800 Lillian Ave | Elkhart, IN 46516 Toll Free: 888.465.3005 Phone: 574.206.9000 Fax: 574.206.9001 sales@golfseats.com

SANFORD'S INAUGURAL CARTFEST EXCEEDS ALL EXPECTATIONS

O

ver 150 custom golf carts descended on Historic Downtown Sanford, Florida, during the inaugural Sanford Lifestyle CartFest weekend, and the community was ready. From Friday evening through Sunday morning, the city transformed into a destination event that brought together builders, dealers, manufacturers, sponsors, and golf cart enthusiasts from across the country. By the time the final carts cruised back downtown for brunch at Ace Cafe on Sunday morning, one thing was obvious: Sanford just hosted one of the most successful festivals this industry has ever seen.

28 www.GolfCarting.com

PREMIER SPONSORS:

OFFICIAL SPONSORS:

THREE DAYS THAT BUILT MOMENTUM Friday kicked off with registration at Henry's Depot and inspections at City Hall, which set the tone immediately. This wasn't a casual meetup. This was a real event with structure, community involvement, and local government involvement.

In addition to t-shirts and free drink tickets, attendees received commemorative challenge coins that unlocked special deals at downtown Sanford businesses, turning the evening into a natural exploration of the Historic District.

Meanwhile, sponsors gathered that evening for the CartFest Kickoff Reception hosted by Sanford Cart & Go. While exhibitors and vendors networked, the community was out on the streets, discovering what downtown Sanford had to offer.

It was clear this event belonged to the entire community, not just the golf cart crowd.

Saturday was the main event, and the Sanford Civic Center became ground zero for everything CartFest promised. The outdoor venue was filled with more than 20 sponsors and eight food trucks representing everything from national golf 30 www.GolfCarting.com

cart manufacturers like Bintelli, NAVITAS Vehicle Systems, Nivel, Cart Life, and SoundExtreme by ECOXGEAR to local dealers and accessories brands. Trojan Battery Company, the Title Sponsor, was joined by a strong lineup of Premier and Official Sponsors who all showed up ready to connect with customers and dealers.

A DJ spinning from noon to 2 p.m. kept the energy up, but it was the live band from 2 to 6 p.m. that really anchored the afternoon, even in the crazy heat. Downtown Sanford was overrun with golf carts all day and into the evening, as attendees took breaks from the festival to explore shops and restaurants offering CartFest specials.

THE AWARDS THAT DEFINED THE WEEKEND At 5:30 p.m., the real stars stepped forward as showcase awards were presented on stage. About 45 carts had entered the competition, and the variety on display was genuinely impressive.

The Tallest Cart award went to a brilliant bright red fully

custom Bronco cart, a build that drew crowds all day. The Best Audio category generated what might have been the tightest competition of the weekend, ultimately won by a limo-style, 3-row, 6-seater custom cart with sound that actually lived up to the hype.

But the Most Custom award was something else entirely. A Mario Cart build pulled straight out of the Nintendo universe rolled into the showcase with a Nintendo Switch customized as the actual controller for the cart's sounds, music, and special effects (including bubbles blowing out of the exhaust). The owners weren't messing around either — they showed up dressed as Mario characters, fully committed to the bit. The cart was impossible to miss, and the judges clearly agreed.

The People's Choice award, selected by the Mayor of Sanford, Art Woodruff, went to a custom tiki cart. Built with all custom wood and featuring a full bar with booth-style seating in the rear, this cart turned heads throughout the weekend.

Every detail suggested someone who understood what a lifestyle vehicle could actually be.

And then there was the Best of Show. "1706," (1700 amps and 6 wheels!) a custom GEM Car built by the team at ACE Performance & Repair in Sarasota, took home the $1,000 cash prize, and it was a clear winner. This isn't a weekend warrior build. This is a cart engineered and styled for the show circuit, with already completed appearances at the PGA Show and an auto show in Canada, and SEMA scheduled for this fall. When you see it in person, you understand why the judges didn't hesitate.

THE COMMUNITY RESPONSE "It was fantastic! We had a great time," said Brian Mayo, a Sanford resident who came out to experience the event. That sentiment echoed across the weekend from attendees and vendors alike.

Delene Fedder, owner of downtown bar The Wet Spot, captured something important about what CartFest meant to the community beyond just golf carts: "Thank you from all of us at The Wet Spot! We met so many wonderful people and GOLF CARTING MAGAZINE 31

thoroughly enjoyed the weekend!"

Even the sponsors were thrilled. Pat Maloney, Sales Rep from SoundExtreme by ECOXGEAR, one of the event's premier sponsors, summed it up simply: "We had a great time! Looking forward to the next one."

BY THE NUMBERS An estimated 1,100 to 1,200 people came through the festival

across the three days. Eight food trucks kept the crowds fed.

The sponsors represented the industry's biggest names and the local dealers who make Sanford's golf cart culture what it is.

More than 150 carts registered for the event overall, with around 20 competing in the showcase. Those carts didn't all come from Central Florida either. Attendees and their builds traveled from 11 states across the country, with participants

coming from as far away as Texas, Michigan, Ohio, and Virginia.

On Sunday morning, more than 40 carts participated in the organized cruise through Historic Downtown, a perfect finale that highlighted Sanford's walkable and golf cart-friendly downtown.

A VISION THAT CONNECTED What Sanford just pulled off was something significant. It created a destination event that brought together builders, dealers, manufacturers, sponsors, and community members around something they all love. It put a small Florida city on the golf cart map in a way that will only grow.

The event came together when Editor of GolfCarting Magazine Matt White, who relocated to Sanford last year, recognized the opportunity. "Within the first couple months of living in Sanford, I knew it would be the perfect place to host an event like this," he said. "And, to see it come together was 34 www.GolfCarting.com

just awesome! I have heard from so many people—sponsors, attendees, local cart owners, downtown businesses—and the response has been fantastic! I'm excited to see where this goes."

That vision, paired with Sanford Main Street's partnership and the golf cart community's support, created something real. Not just a golf cart show, but a genuine celebration of what the golf cart lifestyle has become.

ALREADY PLANNING YEAR TWO For a first-time event, the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. There are lessons to be learned, but those are mostly in the details.

The good news? Organizers are already planning the Second Annual Sanford Lifestyle CartFest. If the first year is any indication, next year will be even bigger and better.

dealereducation

A

RAY CANTWELL 727-267-0287 rcantwell@lstgroupllc.com www.lstgroupllc.com

TRANSPORTATION MARKET UPDATE AND BEST PRACTICES FOR SHIPPING GOLF CARTS

s the golf cart industry continues to grow, transportation remains a critical part of the supply chain. Whether carts are moving from a manufacturer to a distribution center, a dealership or directly to a customer, transportation decisions can affect cost, delivery timing and the condition of the vehicle upon arrival.

Understanding today's freight market and consistently following proven shipping practices can help manufacturers and dealers reduce risk while providing a better experience for their customers.

TRANSPORTATION MARKET UPDATE The transportation market has begun shifting after an extended period of relatively soft freight demand and readily available truck capacity. Overall shipment volumes remain uneven, but the number of available carriers has declined as smaller trucking companies have either exited the market or reduced their fleets. Increased regulatory enforcement and tighter driver availability are also limiting capacity in certain areas.

At the same time, carriers continue to face elevated expenses for fuel, insurance, equipment, maintenance and labor. These costs, combined with a smaller pool of available trucks, are placing upward pressure on transportation rates even without a major increase in freight volume.

For golf cart manufacturers and dealers, the biggest challenge may be finding the right equipment exactly when it is needed. Specialized trailers, enclosed vans and experienced vehicle carriers can become difficult to secure during seasonal surges, holidays and periods of increased shipping activity.

Advance planning is becoming increasingly important.

Providing accurate shipment details, allowing sufficient lead time and developing relationships with experienced transportation providers can improve truck availability and reduce last-minute pricing surprises. Rates may vary by region and season, but consistent communication and flexibility with pickup and delivery dates can help control costs.

A REFRESHER ON GOLF CART TRANSPORTATION BEST PRACTICES CHOOSE THE RIGHT CARRIER AND EQUIPMENT Not every transportation provider has experience handling 38 www.GolfCarting.com

golf carts. Confirm that the carrier understands vehicle loading, securement and delivery requirements. The selected trailer - open, enclosed, flatbed or specialized vehicle equipment should be appropriate for the cart's dimensions, configuration and value. Cargo insurance limits should also be verified before the shipment is dispatched.

PREPARE AND DOCUMENT THE CART The cart should be operable unless special loading arrangements have been made. Batteries, fuel levels and tire condition should meet the carrier's requirements. Remove or secure keys, windshields, mirrors, enclosures and other loose or non-permanent accessories. Photograph each cart from multiple angles before loading. Serial numbers, quantities and vehicle descriptions should match the bill of lading and purchase order. This documentation helps prevent delivery discrepancies and provides important evidence if damage occurs.

USE PROPER SECUREMENT Securement should prevent forward, backward and side-toside movement. Wheel chocks and properly positioned straps should be used together whenever possible. Straps should not rest directly against painted or finished surfaces. Protective padding or dunnage should be placed between the straps and the cart, as well as anywhere the vehicle could contact trailer walls or other carts. Drivers should also check securement after beginning the trip and periodically throughout transit.

INSPECT IMMEDIATELY AT DELIVERY Every cart should be inspected before the driver leaves.

Compare the delivered vehicles with the shipping documents and note any damage or missing items directly on the delivery receipt. Take clear photographs and retain copies of all paperwork.

FINAL TAKEAWAY: Transportation conditions may continue to change, but the fundamentals remain the same: plan ahead, select experienced partners, document the vehicle and never compromise on proper securement. These steps help ensure every golf cart arrives safely, professionally and ready for its customer.

dealerresourcecenter Want to reach golf cart dealers every month?

Finally...

A CUP THAT FITS THE CART

Your Ad Here

aquacaddie aquacaddie aquacaddie aquacaddie aquacaddie aquacaddie

Limited spots available!

Email today.

Custom engraving & wholesale pricing available. Perfect for customer gifting & branded merchandising.

ads@golfcarting.com

Scan the QR code to learn more about custom branded Golf Cart Tumblers

www.aquacaddie.com

Boost Loyalty and Your Bottom Line Golf Cart Wheel Lights Factory-Fit for Every Brand · Ships BOLT-ON Ready · Factory Built for Carts – Not Cars · Custom Fit with Laser Precision · Zero Fabrication Required · Cart Specific Plug-In Harness · <40-Minute Install · Waterproof (IP68)

GoldenHourLEDs.com/gcmag

Manage your dealership with the all-in-one! » Accounting » Leads & Sales » Parts & Service » Digital Marketing » Websites

Your committed partner on EVERY load we handle for you.

LOGISTICS. SOLUTIONS. TECHNOLOGY.

Full Truckload Expedited

Customized Fleet Solutions

LTL & Partials

Expanded Services

Drayage

Warehousing

Cross-Border

Managed Services

Partner with LST Group and experience the confidence of working with a Logistics Leader trusted by companies across North America.

Golf / LSV / PTV DX1app.com 800.700.4391

Ray Cantwell

Business Development Manger

(727) 267-0287

rcantwell@lstgroupllc.com LSTGroupLLC.com @LSTGroupLLC

Scan to save my contact information:

Orders & Quotes

Become a Dealer

batterybuzz

L

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN GOLF CART OWNERS MEET FACEBOOK

et's be honest...when something doesn't seem right with a golf cart, most owners don't reach for the owner's manual. They don't call their dealer. They don't contact the battery manufacturer. They grab their phone, open Facebook, and ask thousands of complete strangers.

Within minutes, the answers start rolling in.

"Your battery is junk."

"Mine's been doing that for two years."

"Replace the charger."

"Replace the battery."

"That's completely normal."

"My cousin's neighbor works on golf carts..."

Ten minutes later, you've received twenty different answers, seventeen opinions, three arguments, and somehow, you're even more confused than when you asked the question.

The funny part? Sometimes the correct answer is actually in there—it's just buried somewhere between the guy who fixes lawn mowers and the fellow who's convinced every electrical problem can be solved by replacing the battery.

One of my favorite myths is, "All lithium batteries are basically the same." If that were true, every pickup truck would drive the same, and every smartphone would perform the same. We all know better. While many batteries may look similar on the outside, what matters is what's inside. Most premium battery manufacturers invest in Grade-A automotive cells, sophisticated Battery Management Systems (BMS), extensive testing, and engineering that protects both the battery and the customer. Those things aren't always visible, but they make a big difference over the life of the product.

42 www.GolfCarting.com

BY BOBBY DIAZ, SENIOR BATTERY PRODUCT MANAGER, FORMER FOUNDER, BOLT ENERGY USA NIVEL PARTS & MANUFACTURING

Then there's the owner who installs larger tires, a lift kit, a rear seat, lights, a Bluetooth stereo, and a cooler before asking why the cart doesn't travel as far as it used to. Every accessory changes the demands placed on the vehicle. That's simply physics—not a bad battery.

The best advice rarely comes from the loudest voice online. It comes from the people who know your cart and your battery. A great dealer understands how your vehicle is configured, while a reputable battery manufacturer stands behind that dealer with clear owner's manuals, Quick Start Guides, easy-to-follow videos, knowledgeable technical support, and resources that help answer questions quickly and accurately.

Don't get me wrong—Facebook is a great place to show off your latest golf cart build, find inspiration for your next upgrade, or share pictures from a weekend ride. But when it comes to charging, battery care, troubleshooting, or understanding how your system actually works, start with your dealer. If more help is needed, a quality battery manufacturer should be right there to support both of you.

The next time you ask a question online and receive twenty different answers, remember this: the loudest voice isn't always the right one. Sometimes the best answer comes from the people who engineered the product, documented it clearly, and stand behind it every single day.

NIVEL SPECIALTY VEHICLES / 3510-1 Port Jacksonville Pkwy Jacksonville, FL 32226 Bolt Support 727-955-4955 Office 904-301-0175 www.nivel.com/specialtyvehicles

golfcartbusiness

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mike Alexander is the Executive Director of the Low-Speed Vehicle Dealer Association and Founder of Sea Anchor Group. A veteran global industry executive, Mike has spent decades helping shape the golf car, low-speed vehicle, and light-duty utility vehicle categories through OEM leadership, dealer strategy, market development, and association work.

His work focuses on responsible market growth, dealer professionalism and profitability, broader local mobility adoption, safety, and the trends shaping the industry’s next chapter.

Contact: michael@lsvda.com | LSVDA.com What recent enforcement, compliance, and supply-chain pressure could mean for golf car and LSV dealers

F

or years, the golf car and low-speed vehicle market has been defined by growth. More communities opened their roads. More consumers discovered short-distance transportation. More manufacturers entered the category.

More dealers added new brands.

The growth has been impressive, and it is not over. Yet another force is now shaping the market just as much as demand.

ACCOUNTABILITY Recent activity around trade enforcement, import scrutiny, safety equipment, recalls, documentation, and federal compliance has created a new environment for dealers, manufacturers, suppliers, and customers. This does not mean the market is in trouble. It does mean the market is maturing.

MATURING MARKETS OPERATE DIFFERENTLY In a fast-growth market, many companies focus first on availability, price, features, and speed to market. In a more accountable market, those things still matter, yet they are no longer enough. The questions become deeper.

• Can the supplier support the product?

44 www.GolfCarting.com

• Can the dealer confidently stand behind it?

• Is the vehicle properly documented?

• Does the product really conform to applicable standards?

• Has the manufacturer properly certified that it complies?

CONFORMANCE AND COMPLIANCE ARE WORTH A DEEPER DIVE To conform means the product meets the requirements of a standard. In plain English, the vehicle is built the way the rule says it should be built.

To comply means the company has met its legal or regulatory obligation. In this context, a manufacturer may certify that a vehicle complies with applicable requirements.

That certification is not just a marketing claim. It is a responsibility.

For dealers, the distinction matters because customers rarely separate the manufacturer’s obligation from the dealer’s reputation. If a vehicle has a safety equipment issue, documentation concern, recall, parts delay, or support problem, the selling dealer gets the first phone call.

That is why this is not simply a legal or regulatory story. It is a business story.

Dealers do not need to become customs experts, lawyers, or engineers. But professional dealers do need to ask probing questions. The old question was, “Can I get product?” The

better question is, “Can I confidently retail it, support it, and protect my reputation if something changes?”

THERE IS A DIFFERENCE BETWEEN CHASING INVENTORY AND MANAGING RISK The market is unlikely to stop because one brand disappears, another slows down, or a shipment gets delayed. When supply gets disrupted, markets adapt and demand goes somewhere else.

Existing manufacturers can gain share. New entrants can adjust their plans. Dealers can diversify inventory. Refurbished and pre-owned vehicles are becoming more important. Service departments should become even more central to profitability and customer trust.

Adaptation favors prepared dealers.

One who depends too heavily on one uncertain product line can be exposed. A dealer who does not understand supplier documentation can be surprised. A dealer who assumes every “street legal” claim means the same thing may later discover that customers, regulators, and competitors are asking harder questions.

parts and warranty systems before putting their reputation at risk. They will pay closer attention to safety equipment, documentation, and customer expectations. They will avoid overpromising when supply is uncertain. They will build trust before they need it.

THERE IS ALSO AN OPPORTUNITY HERE FOR THE BROADER INDUSTRY Accountability always feels uncomfortable when it first arrives. Yet over time, it can strengthen the category. Better documentation, better product support, clearer standards, and more professional dealer practices help customers, municipalities, insurers, lenders, policymakers and investors take the industry more seriously.

That matters as our market is no longer limited to golf courses, campus like environments and private communities.

The vehicles we sell, rent, lease and service are becoming part of a larger local mobility movement. They are used in neighborhoods, downtowns, resorts, campuses, masterplanned communities, and short-distance transportation environments across the country.

With an estimated two million vehicles being used on pathways and roadways, expectations are going to rise as the market expands.

The next chapter of the industry will not be defined only by who can sell the most vehicles. It will be defined by who can build confidence around the vehicles they sell.

“IN UNCERTAIN TIMES, BE THE DEALER CUSTOMERS TRUST MOST.”

WHERE THE BEST DEALERS SEPARATE THEMSELVES The strongest dealers in the next phase of this market will likely be the ones who combine growth-minded selling with operational maturity. They will know which suppliers communicate clearly before taking them on. They will understand which products are supported by dependable

GOLF CARTING MAGAZINE 45

golfcartingnation

GOLF CART: 2011 Club Car Villager 8 LOCATION: Saguenay, Canada BUILDER: Frédéric Morin TELL US ABOUT THIS CUSTOM BUILD. This is a project I completed with my two sons. We chose the Club Car Villager 8 for this build because we believe the body of the vintage Club Car DS remains one of the most beautiful golf cart designs ever made.

We completely removed the original chassis, keeping only the body, and designed and built a fully custom frame. The new frame was extended by 18 inches to provide more space for passengers, and its geometry was redesigned to accommodate a four-link suspension with 24-inch coilovers.

We also designed the rear differential mounts, as well as a front axle capable of supporting hydraulic steering. The vehicle is equipped with 30x10-14 ATV tires, resulting in a floor height of approximately 37 inches. The entire structure was finished with automotive-grade paint.

46 www.GolfCarting.com

ANY CUSTOM FABRICATION OR CUSTOM-MADE PARTS? All parts were custom fabricated. The entire frame was customdesigned, along with the four-link suspension brackets, rear differential mounts, suspension supports, and complete front axle.

The assembly was built specifically for this project. The majority of the components were laser-cut to ensure precision. A marine hydraulic steering system was used to provide vehicle steering.

WHAT AFTERMARKET PARTS DID YOU USE? I used 30-inch Kimpex Trail Warrior tires, which give the vehicle a golf cart-style look without being overly aggressive. I also used a Navitas 850-amp, 7.5 kW motor controller system with a 51.2-volt battery configuration. A Vevor hydraulic steering system was installed, along with 24-inch coilovers.

TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND. HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN BUILDING CARTS, AND HOW DID YOU GET INTO IT? I have always been passionate about mechanics and engineering. I have always built custom vehicles, but due to regulations, it has never

really been possible to use them on the road.

However, the beauty of golf carts is that they can be modified while still remaining functional. That’s what sparked my interest in these machines. I am now on my second project. Last year, I built a cart focused on speed and acceleration. This time, I built one focused more on looks and overall design.

What I find most interesting about golf carts is that they remain usable—you can still take them camping and drive them around, even after modifications.

WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE PLANS? For a future project, I already have a golf cart dragster on the drawing board.

IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU’D LIKE TO ADD? The goal was to create something unique that would not go unnoticed while keeping the style of a golf cart, so we didn’t end up with something that strayed too far from the original spirit of the vehicle.

GOLF CARTING MAGAZINE 47

DRIVE UP YOUR PROFITS WITH BINTELLI

Secure an exclusive Bintelli territory today to capture premium retail demand and scale your annual revenue.

Turnkey, Street-Legal Inventory

Dealer Support You Can Trust

Protected Showroom Territories

Localized Lead Generation and Marketing Support

The New 2027 Beyond Forward-Facing

BECOME A DEALER Isn’t it time you experienced the best LSV dealership program in the industry?

SCAN NOW & LEARN HOW

bintelli.com/become-a-dealer (843) 920-6733

P O W E R. C O N T R O L. R E L I A B I L I T Y.

Your Complete AC Drivetrain Navitas delivers uncompromising performance with our Complete AC Drivetrain. Featuring our TAC2 AC Controller / Motor kit. Offering more speed, torque with greater efficiency, and our robust, newly developed axle, your vehicles will achieve peak performance, reliability and efficiency.

ENGINEERED, ASSEMBLED & TESTED IN NORTH AMERICA

CORE PRODUCTS

TAC2 AC CONTROLLER State of the art 440a - 600a 36v-72v controller giving ultimate unmatched performance. MADE IN CANADA.

AC INDUCTION MOTOR

Get ultimate control over your Golf Car (LSV) with our Bluetooth App. Download on the Google Play Store or Apple App Store today!

Smooth, efficient, high-torque power.

AXLE Built tough to deliver consistent, powerful performance.

Stay ahead with Navitas Vehicle Systems Ltd.® industry leading products and unmatched support.

(844) 576-2499

www.navitasvs.com Unmatched Power and Performance with Navitas Vehicle Systems Ltd.® ® Navitas Vehicle Systems Ltd. is ISO 9001 Certified

golfcartcompany

BUILT BY GOLF CART ENTHUSIASTS HOW BA PARTS IS RAISING THE STANDARD

A decade of building, restoring and customizing golf carts shaped a different kind of accessory company—one focused on exact fitment, American-made craftsmanship, simple installation and unapologetically high performance.

The golf cart accessory industry has never lacked options.

What it has often lacked, however, are products designed by people who have spent years installing those options, living with their shortcomings and understanding exactly where they fall short. BA Parts, the Van Wert, Ohio-based accessory division of BA Carts, is approaching the market from that uncommon perspective.

Long before BA Parts began manufacturing its own products, the Whitaker family was selling, restoring and customizing golf carts. Over the past decade, BA Carts has built thousands of vehicles, ranging from everyday neighborhood carts to elaborate, high-end custom builds delivered to customers across the country. In its earlier years, the shop consistently rebuilt Yamaha and Club Car carts from the 52 www.GolfCarting.com

ground up.

That meant installing thousands upon thousands of aftermarket components—and learning which products held up, which fit properly and which created unnecessary frustration.

Those years in the shop became the foundation for BA Parts. The company encountered the same problems repeatedly: accessories that were not as strong as they appeared, products advertised as bolt-on that still required drilling or modification, and so-called universal designs that only “kind of” fit the vehicle. Installers were often left enlarging holes, altering brackets or improvising solutions that never appeared in the instructions.

BA PARTS WAS CREATED TO CHANGE THAT EXPERIENCE. Rather than designing products to fit the broadest possible range of vehicles, the company develops accessories for the exact make and model on which they will be installed. The goal is straightforward: the part should fit the customer’s cart

exactly as it fits the cart shown in the company’s installation video. No guessing, unexpected fabrication or settling for an accessory that looks like an afterthought once it is installed.

That model-specific approach now extends across a rapidly growing catalog of bolt-on accessories, including heavy-duty hitch receivers, full-length steps, rear cargo racks, overhead storage consoles, front storage baskets and vehiclespecific storage solutions. Each product is developed around four primary considerations: strength, function, appearance and ease of installation.

BA PARTS DOES NOT VIEW SIMPLE INSTALLATION AS A SECONDARY CONVENIENCE. IT IS A CORE FEATURE OF THE PRODUCT. To control the entire process, the company has invested heavily in American manufacturing. Laser-cutting equipment, press brakes, welding, fabrication and powder-coating capabilities allow BA Parts to design, prototype, manufacture and ship its fabricated products directly from Van Wert, Ohio.

Keeping production close provides tighter quality control and allows the team to respond quickly whenever a design can be improved. It also reflects the company’s unwavering

commitment to American-made craftsmanship.

For BA Parts, price is not the driving force behind product development—quality is. American manufacturing, stronger materials, precise model-specific fitment and careful finishing naturally come at a cost. The company accepts that because producing the best possible accessory matters more than engineering a product around a predetermined price point.

The BA Carts dealership gives the accessory division another significant advantage. New designs can be prototyped, installed and evaluated on actual vehicles within the same operation. Products are not developed solely from measurements, drawings or theories. The team can install them, use them and evaluate how they perform in the real world. If a bracket needs reinforcement, an installation step could be simplified or a feature could be made more functional, that feedback reaches the manufacturing team directly.

The dealership and accessory divisions work hand in hand. BA Carts remains an active and growing dealership, which keeps BA Parts connected to the vehicles, dealers and customers its products are intended to serve. That constant involvement gives the company an understanding of the industry that cannot be gained from behind a desk.

GOLF CARTING MAGAZINE 53

golfcartcompany BA Parts currently manufactures accessories for Club Car, E-Z-GO, Yamaha, Epic, Evolution, Denago, TEKO, DACH and Atlas golf carts. The company continues releasing products for those platforms while actively developing accessories for many additional models and OEMs.

BA Parts is not made up of outsiders attempting to capitalize on a growing market. Its team genuinely loves the golf cart industry. They love the vehicles, the customization possibilities, the dealers who help move the industry forward and the customers who turn these vehicles into something personal.

THE COMPANY’S CAPABILITIES, HOWEVER, EXTEND WELL BEYOND FABRICATED BOLT-ON ACCESSORIES.

THAT PASSION IS ALSO REFLECTED IN HOW BA PARTS SUPPORTS ITS DEALER NETWORK.

Inside the BA Parts Plug-N-Play Shop, a dedicated team builds products ranging from PowerPlates—plug-and-play fuse panels that provide a clean, organized way to power additional accessories—to complete good, better and best sound systems engineered for specific golf cart models.

Audio is firmly within the company’s wheelhouse.

Lynn Whitaker, one of the owners of BA Carts alongside Sloan Whitaker, was a highly successful car-audio installer throughout the 1990s and 2000s. That background now allows BA Parts to deliver the kind of powerful, bass-heavy, highperformance audio experience that golf carts have rarely had before—all through organized plug-and-play systems that can be installed without cutting factory wiring.

BA Parts is not dipping its toes into golf cart audio. It is here to make a splash. Giving golf cart owners around the world a truly badass audio experience is exactly the company’s bread and butter, and BA Parts intends to keep pushing the limits of what people believe is possible inside a golf cart.

The fabricated and plug-and-play divisions may produce very different products, but they are guided by the same philosophy: build everything around quality, craftsmanship, performance and the ownership experience.

BA Parts is designing for golf cart owners who view their vehicles the way enthusiasts view their trucks, Jeeps or sports cars. These customers want steps that feel substantial, cargo racks built for actual use, accessories that fit as though they came from the factory and sound systems that completely transform the vehicle.

That enthusiast mindset runs throughout the company.

Through its online dealer portal, qualified dealers receive dealer pricing across every product in the BA Parts catalog.

The program gives golf cart businesses access to premium accessories they can install on their own builds, display in their showrooms or offer directly to their customers.

As golf carts become more capable, more expensive and more personalized, owners increasingly expect their accessories to match the quality and appearance of the vehicle itself. BA Parts believes exact fitment, serious strength, thoughtful functionality and clear installation instructions should become the new standard—not rare exceptions.

With its dealership continuing to grow, its manufacturing capabilities expanding and new products constantly moving from prototype to production, BA Parts is positioned to keep raising that standard.

The company’s greatest advantage is not simply the machinery on its manufacturing floor. It is the decade of hands-on experience behind every design—the knowledge earned by people who installed the old solutions, understood where they fell short and decided to build something better.

For BA Parts, this is not a temporary opportunity or a new market to test. The company is committed to the golf cart industry, invested in American manufacturing and determined to continue pushing the standard for what a premium golf cart accessory can be.

Dealers and customers can explore the complete BA Parts catalog, watch installation videos or apply for a dealer account at SHOPBAPARTS.COM.

54 www.GolfCarting.com

Innovation Driven By The Industry’s Most Trusted Name.

Peace of Mind

12-Year transferable warranty and hassle-free ownership backed by an industry leader Guaranteed.

Unmatched Reliability

Extended Range

Drive farther and charge faster with a battery built for maximum distance and all-day freedom.

Designed to handle more, tested to last longer, and ready to perform year after year.

No Maintenance

Zero up keep required while never worrying about a dead battery with automatic storage mode.

Engineered for Safety Automotive technology ensures safety.

askthemechanic

ASK THE MECHANIC Q: Why does my electric golf cart lose speed up hills or die quickly? How do I perform a battery load test?

A: Loss of torque under load is usually caused by voltage sag under high current draw. While a battery pack might show a full charge while resting in the garage, one or more weak or sulfated cells will drop drastically under load, causing the motor controller to cut power to protect the system.

Remember that your pack is only as good as its worst battery.

Fully charge the pack, let it rest for 1 hour. Attach both multimeter probes to one battery at a time using alligator clips. Drive the cart up a steep hill or accelerate hard from a complete stop while watching the meter. A healthy battery will drop slightly under heavy load. For instance, an 8v battery will drop to approx 7.5v–7.8v). If an individual battery dives below 7.0V (or a 12V battery drops below 10.5V), that specific battery has failed.

Inspect every high-amp cable lug. Clean off green/white lead-sulfate corrosion with baking soda and warm water.

Replace any cable that feels soft, swollen, or hot to the touch after driving, as resistance creates big voltage drops.

Q: What causes a gas golf cart to crank without firing? How do I isolate the issue between fuel and spark?

A: Check for spark by removing a spark plug boot, insert a spare spark plug (or plug tester) into the boot, and ground the threaded base of the plug against the clean bare metal of the engine block. Press the accelerator pedal to crank the engine and watch the plug gap. If you see a bright blue spark, the 56 www.GolfCarting.com

ignition system is working properly. If you see no spark or weak orange spark, check the ignition coil, spark plug wire, ground straps, or the microswitches inside the pedal box.

Pull the fuel delivery hose off the carburetor inlet port and direct it into a clear container or rag. Crank the engine for 2–3 seconds. If no fuel pulses out the mechanical impulse fuel pump is failing, a vacuum line off the crankcase is split/ loose, or the fuel filter is clogged. If fuel pulses strongly, fuel is reaching the carb, but the internal carburetor jets are likely clogged due to stale ethanol fuel. If this is the case, it's time to clean the carburetor. Remove the carburetor bowl and spray brake/carb cleaner directly through the main jet and pilot jet pinholes. Use a thin copper wire to clear tiny brass orifices, reinstall, and ensure the float needle operates freely without sticking shut.

Q: My electric golf cart doesn't move or make a clicking sound when I press the pedal. How would I test the solenoid?

A: To measure coil voltage, set a digital multimeter to DC voltage and place the probes on the two small terminals on the solenoid. Turn the key on, put the cart in Forward, and press the accelerator pedal. If your multimeter reads full pack voltage, and the solenoid doesn't click, the solenoid internal coil is dead and must be replaced.

If you hear a click but the cart stays still, check voltage across the two large terminals with the pedal depressed. If you read pack voltage across the two posts while clicked

Power you never think about.

Never Plug In Your Cart Again.

Just Drive, Park & Charge.

MR/1™ Wireless Charging

MSRP Starting at $1625

Learn more: witricity.com/mr1-gcm

Visit www.golfcarting.com and go to Readers Rides to submit. Be sure to use the hashtag #golfcarting

braggingrights

58 www.GolfCarting.com

ASK ABOUT THE ALL NEW

0 .

2 G EW

!

D E T N A DEALERS W

NEW PROGRAMS, NEW BACKEND & MORE