looking for golf cart advice

[margevicius@gmail.com]

New to TV -- coming down in January. In need of a golf cart. Interested in electric -- gas is too noisy and smelly for me and my bride. 2 options on electric - Lithium and lead-based. Lithium is preferred. Which makes/models are good? Initially interested in Evolution, but I realize that others like Club Car and EZ-GO exist. Can others share the good/bad/ugly of their experiences? TIA. And if you have/know of one for sale, drop me a PM, thanks.

[dewilson58]

Interested in electric -- gas is too noisy and smelly for me and my bride.

Have you driven the new Yamaha's?? Don't smell & very quite. Jus say'n.

:popcorn:

[n8xwb]

May want to check with your tax advisor....I've read some banter about electric carts being eligible for significant tax rebates. They may have to have options such as seatbelts, to qualify.

[Road-Runner]

We looked at Evolution carts before purchasing our Yamaha Gas cart. The Evolution was nice enough although there aren't nearly as many options / upgrades available for it as there are the other brands like EZ-GO, Club Car and Yamaha. Our QuietTech gas is fairly quiet and I actually find the whine of some electric carts to be more bothersome than the low volume of my Yamaha. We will eventually get a second cart and my wife will want an electric so we'll see what's available then. One last thing, I always try to buy American or as much content as possible from the U.S. in my purchases and the components for the Evolution are all from China which as a source country is my #1 least favorite. That probably more than anything else kept me from wanting the Evolution. If you don't feel the same, it could be the cart for you as those that have them seem pretty happy with them at least so far. Welcome to the villages by the way!

[CoachKandSportsguy]

Depends upon where you live. If you live north of 44, electric will work. Our lead acid electric cart will get about 40 miles before the towing service needs calling. Gas has a much, much farther range. If you live south of 44, the golf courses are so far away, that gas is your only real option for going to LSL and getting back.

sorry to be the bearer of bad news if you live in Southern Oaks.

[ureout]

the Evolution cart looks nice and has lots of frills but make sure you test drive it.. I took 2 different carts out and hated the ride every bump was bone jarring and 10 times worse than a Yamaha .. I am a high mileage golf cart user... I ended up buying a new Yamaha and love it

[Laker14]

New to TV -- coming down in January. In need of a golf cart. Interested in electric -- gas is too noisy and smelly for me and my bride. 2 options on electric - Lithium and lead-based. Lithium is preferred. Which makes/models are good? Initially interested in Evolution, but I realize that others like Club Car and EZ-GO exist. Can others share the good/bad/ugly of their experiences? TIA. And if you have/know of one for sale, drop me a PM, thanks.

If price is no concern, I'd get a Yamaha or Club Car Lithium-Ion, brand new. However, my understanding is that between the high demand, and the supply chain issues, getting anything by January may be a pipe dream.
Let us know how you make out.

[kkingston57]

New to TV -- coming down in January. In need of a golf cart. Interested in electric -- gas is too noisy and smelly for me and my bride. 2 options on electric - Lithium and lead-based. Lithium is preferred. Which makes/models are good? Initially interested in Evolution, but I realize that others like Club Car and EZ-GO exist. Can others share the good/bad/ugly of their experiences? TIA. And if you have/know of one for sale, drop me a PM, thanks.


I am 6ft 3 inches tall and checked out the Evolution. Accelerator was not in a comfortable position(too close to me).

EZ Go has the longest range. Check to see how far you intend to drive cart in a day. If you are centrally located, might not need a 50-60 range cart.

Quietech is good gas cart. Has more tire noise than engine noise. Still smelly but not as bad as older golf carts.

Good luck and keep eyes open. There is a lot less availability now than 1 year agol

[golfing eagles]

New to TV -- coming down in January. In need of a golf cart. Interested in electric -- gas is too noisy and smelly for me and my bride. 2 options on electric - Lithium and lead-based. Lithium is preferred. Which makes/models are good? Initially interested in Evolution, but I realize that others like Club Car and EZ-GO exist. Can others share the good/bad/ugly of their experiences? TIA. And if you have/know of one for sale, drop me a PM, thanks.

///

[Laker14]

New to TV -- coming down in January. In need of a golf cart. Interested in electric -- gas is too noisy and smelly for me and my bride. 2 options on electric - Lithium and lead-based. Lithium is preferred. Which makes/models are good? Initially interested in Evolution, but I realize that others like Club Car and EZ-GO exist. Can others share the good/bad/ugly of their experiences? TIA. And if you have/know of one for sale, drop me a PM, thanks.

Do yourself a favor and buy a Yamaha gas cart. You're not going to save the planet anyway. Donate to Greenpeace if it makes you feel better.

Where in the OP's post did you get the impression his decision was based upon a desire to "save the planet"? He states very clearly that he finds gas too noisy and smelly. How did you jump to the conclusion that it was about "saving the planet"?

[tophcfa]

Have you driven the new Yamaha's?? Don't smell & very quite. Jus say'n.

:popcorn:

Agree, there are many very good reasons why Yamaha gas carts are by far (it’s not even close) the most popular carts in the Villages.

[golfing eagles]

Where in the OP's post did you get the impression his decision was based upon a desire to "save the planet"? He states very clearly that he finds gas too noisy and smelly. How did you jump to the conclusion that it was about "saving the planet"?

///

[golfing eagles]

How about doing us a favor and keep your comments to yourself if you are not going to add anything positive to the discussion. OP said nothing about saving the planet, only that "gas is too noisy and smelly".

///

[Velvet]

Have gas Yamaha quiet tech, can’t smell it at all. Where does this smell supposed to come from?

[Laker14]

Have gas Yamaha quiet tech, can’t smell it at all. Where does this smell supposed to come from?

I have one also, and when I back into the garage, I definitely get a little exhaust smell. Doesn't really faze me, but I can't deny its existence.

[pedwards2932]

I have an electric Club Car and I can attest to the gas powered being smelly and loud. I don't think you smell or hear it as well if you are driving them. The other issues is almost everyone of the gas powered seem to be set to run 23 mph my electric runs 19 mph so you have to let the speedsters by a lot. One other thing is the pollution and the gas powered may eventually not be allowed:

A gas-powered golf cart with a 10.5 horsepower engine that operates for 2.5 hours each week emits 1474.2 pounds of CO2 each year, according to a study by Princeton University.

[Papa_lecki]

I have an electric Club Car and I can attest to the gas powered being smelly and loud. I don't think you smell or hear it as well if you are driving them. The other issues is almost everyone of the gas powered seem to be set to run 23 mph my electric runs 19 mph so you have to let the speedsters by a lot. One other thing is the pollution and the gas powered may eventually not be allowed:

A gas-powered golf cart with a 10.5 horsepower engine that operates for 2.5 hours each week emits 1474.2 pounds of CO2 each year, according to a study by Princeton University.

Now do the lithium battery….

‘Lithium-ion technology has downsides — for people and the planet. Extracting the raw materials, mainly lithium and cobalt, requires large quantities of energy and water. Moreover, the work takes place in mines where workers — including children as young as seven — often face unsafe conditions.‘

Battery-grade lithium can also be produced by exposing the material to very high temperatures — a process used in China and Australia — which consumes large quantities of energy.

Cobalt is an important part of a battery’s electrode, but around 70% of this element is found in just one country: the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Around 90% of the DRC’s cobalt comes from its industrial mines (90,000 tonnes annually). But in a country where people earn, on average, less than $1,200 annually, the world’s demand for cobalt has attracted thousands of individuals and small businesses, called artisanal miners — and child labour and unsafe working practices are rife.

[JoMar]

We have two electric carts, one Par Car (2015) and a Sirius (2020). Range on the Par Car is around 40 miles, range on Sirius about 55. We replace batteries every 3 - 4 years so until the cost of Lithium comes down significantly or we run out of range we have no need. We live in Hillsborough so are about in the middle so Fenny or SS is well within the range needed. (yes, I have done Lopez and Orange Blossom without issue), Average trip is about 25 miles golf included. I have done 50 in the Sirius and, even with the best seats available, your butt will let you know :). It's also nice to not have to make stops at gas stations and deal with lifting seats, opening tank and make sure you don't overflow. Pull in your garage, plug it in and you're done.

[Williewh]

I have been here since August. They told me a new golf cart will take 6 months to build. I have heard this month that it is down to 4 and a half months

[tophcfa]

I have an electric Club Car and I can attest to the gas powered being smelly and loud. I don't think you smell or hear it as well if you are driving them. The other issues is almost everyone of the gas powered seem to be set to run 23 mph my electric runs 19 mph so you have to let the speedsters by a lot. One other thing is the pollution and the gas powered may eventually not be allowed:

A gas-powered golf cart with a 10.5 horsepower engine that operates for 2.5 hours each week emits 1474.2 pounds of CO2 each year, according to a study by Princeton University.

Glad we didn’t wast money sending our kid to Princeton. Driving a gas cart 2.5 hours per week for 52 weeks would burn about 75 gallons of gas. Since gas weighs 6.1 pounds per gallon, that would be roughly 458 pounds of gas. How in the world could 1,474.2 pounds of CO2 be emitted by burning 458 pounds of gas?

[tophcfa]

Now do the lithium battery….

‘Lithium-ion technology has downsides — for people and the planet. Extracting the raw materials, mainly lithium and cobalt, requires large quantities of energy and water. Moreover, the work takes place in mines where workers — including children as young as seven — often face unsafe conditions.‘

Battery-grade lithium can also be produced by exposing the material to very high temperatures — a process used in China and Australia — which consumes large quantities of energy.

Cobalt is an important part of a battery’s electrode, but around 70% of this element is found in just one country: the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Around 90% of the DRC’s cobalt comes from its industrial mines (90,000 tonnes annually). But in a country where people earn, on average, less than $1,200 annually, the world’s demand for cobalt has attracted thousands of individuals and small businesses, called artisanal miners — and child labour and unsafe working practices are rife.

The inconvenient truth.

[pedwards2932]

Mine has lead acid batteries. AFAIK there are no catalytic converters on a golf cart. Didn't mean to start an argument.......forgot this was the Villages.

[Woodbear]

Glad we didn’t wast money sending our kid to Princeton. Driving a gas cart 2.5 hours per week for 52 weeks would burn about 75 gallons of gas. Since gas weighs 6.1 pounds per gallon, that would be roughly 458 pounds of gas. How in the world could 1,474.2 pounds of CO2 be emitted by burning 458 pounds of gas?

They are taking into account the carbon coming from the gasoline will combine with 2 molecules of oxygen in the air to produce CO2. Given the molecular weight of the Carbon + Oxygen + Oxygen they get the value that CO2 will be 3.7 times greater than the initial starting weight of Carbon in the gasoline.

https://climatekids.nasa.gov/review/carbon/gasoline.html

[tsmall22204]

I am very happy with my Tomberlin electric cart. I can go 40 miles on a full charge using lead acid batteries. Mine is a 2019 model. Looks like a little jeep.

[bowlingal]

buy used first. then decide before you have a great outlay of cash and are unhappy. Lots of carts listed in classified..... Talk of the Villages, Villages News, Nextdoor, Villages buy/sell, Lady Lake Virtual Yard Sale

[cocoabill]

When lithium's go dead they go dead no warning just done. Golf cart towing insurance places wont even insure them they are always having to tow them. Having invested $6k in lithium batteries for our carts, I wish i didn't, tech is just not there yet, AS far as cart's stick with Yamaha or Club car. We have 5 carts because of rentals and love our electrics, we have one 2016 Yamaha gas, range is great but would rather drive electric any day of the week, that is unless I had to drive to Fenny.

[wamley]

Wehave a 2015 Fuel injected Yamaha, there is noise, but nothing like the former models, no fumes from exhaust or gas like many of the firm models. The latest models are almost as quiet as the electric, no fumes, no gas odor. Electric milage varies from battery type to how much stuff you have running on thr battery, in addition to the terrain traveling over. While we in our rental phase of living in the villages we had gas,and electric carts based on our our landlords ownership. We bought a house eand we bought a gas cart, We travel all over the place, easy to fill up gas tank in multiple locations in a few minutes, try that with an electric cart when you find out low on power. Gas much further round trip and play 18 holes of golf then an electric cart. The new gas golf carts are the bes is gone. Right now a gas Yamaha would take at least 3-4 months to get. We plan on getting one after the current backup in availability. Big backlog right now.

[Jhnidy]

New to TV -- coming down in January. In need of a golf cart. Interested in electric -- gas is too noisy and smelly for me and my bride. 2 options on electric - Lithium and lead-based. Lithium is preferred. Which makes/models are good? Initially interested in Evolution, but I realize that others like Club Car and EZ-GO exist. Can others share the good/bad/ugly of their experiences? TIA. And if you have/know of one for sale, drop me a PM, thanks.
If you buy evolution, stay AWAY from village discount. They put in speed governors. 20 MPH does not sound bad until you realize that everybody else is traveling at a higher speed. If you would like to drive a 20 MPH you are welcome to try mine.

[Papa_lecki]

Try and test drive one, and not just around the block. See if you can get an electric cart for a half day and drive it around.

Test drive both an electric and gas cart. See for yourself. It will be eye opening.

[talonip]

New to TV -- coming down in January. In need of a golf cart. Interested in electric -- gas is too noisy and smelly for me and my bride. 2 options on electric - Lithium and lead-based. Lithium is preferred. Which makes/models are good? Initially interested in Evolution, but I realize that others like Club Car and EZ-GO exist. Can others share the good/bad/ugly of their experiences? TIA. And if you have/know of one for sale, drop me a PM, thanks.
80 miles on charge. Easy to maintain. Great warranty. They have them at Villages Golf Carts. Talk to Don at Spanish Springs.

[pedwards2932]

Golf carts that exceed 20 mph have to be made street legal.....Tags, insurance, brakes, etc. I suspect some of the cart companies don't want the liability of setting the governors to a higher speed.

[rsmurano]

Have had lead-acid golf carts in the past and will no longer get 1 of those. $1000 every 4-5 years to replace the batteries. Also, you need to check the water level in the batteries every quarter and these batteries start losing their range of charge as time passes.
If you want electric, lithium is the best choice for both maintenance and length of service and range. The big downside is paying $3000-$4,000 for a new set of lithium batteries every 7 years. If you are environment conscience, batteries of any kind are a major waste issue.
We just bought a new Yamaha drive2 gas cart and love it, quiet, no smell, 300+ mile range. The main maintenance you need to do is change the oil once a year and maybe adjust the valves. Down the road many many years from now, you will need an engine rebuild which is fairly cheap compared to replacing batteries

[Annie66]

///

This is off topic, but while not new to ToTV, I'm confused by posters simply typing "///" as a response. What does "///" mean?

[bncuhler@verizon.net]

New to TV -- coming down in January. In need of a golf cart. Interested in electric -- gas is too noisy and smelly for me and my bride. 2 options on electric - Lithium and lead-based. Lithium is preferred. Which makes/models are good? Initially interested in Evolution, but I realize that others like Club Car and EZ-GO exist. Can others share the good/bad/ugly of their experiences? TIA. And if you have/know of one for sale, drop me a PM, thanks.

We LOVE our EZGo lithium. We live South of 44 and go up to Lake Sumter , play golf etc and return with half a charge still left. It charges quickly with just a regular plug in the garage. We first bought a Club Car and returned it ( luckily we could). It did not have the distance. Quiet, easy, no maintenance!

[Travelhunter123]

New to TV -- coming down in January. In need of a golf cart. Interested in electric -- gas is too noisy and smelly for me and my bride. 2 options on electric - Lithium and lead-based. Lithium is preferred. Which makes/models are good? Initially interested in Evolution, but I realize that others like Club Car and EZ-GO exist. Can others share the good/bad/ugly of their experiences? TIA. And if you have/know of one for sale, drop me a PM, thanks.

Check atomic golf carts, electric
Air conditioned
Power windows
Windshield wipers
Long range driving
Fast
Street ready

[bncuhler@verizon.net]

Depends upon where you live. If you live north of 44, electric will work. Our lead acid electric cart will get about 40 miles before the towing service needs calling. Gas has a much, much farther range. If you live south of 44, the golf courses are so far away, that gas is your only real option for going to LSL and getting back.



sorry to be the bearer of bad news if you live in Southern Oaks.

Not true. We live South of the turnpike and go up to play golf and up to the Squares and return home with half a charge still left. No issues whatsoever!

[Travelhunter123]

Depends upon where you live. If you live north of 44, electric will work. Our lead acid electric cart will get about 40 miles before the towing service needs calling. Gas has a much, much farther range. If you live south of 44, the golf courses are so far away, that gas is your only real option for going to LSL and getting back.

sorry to be the bearer of bad news if you live in Southern Oaks.

Atomic carts get 60 miles
With lithium batteries almost 100
If you use the air conditioning it’s less range

[Travelhunter123]

glad we didn’t wast money sending our kid to princeton. Driving a gas cart 2.5 hours per week for 52 weeks would burn about 75 gallons of gas. Since gas weighs 6.1 pounds per gallon, that would be roughly 458 pounds of gas. How in the world could 1,474.2 pounds of co2 be emitted by burning 458 pounds of gas?

lol

[Frame44]

We bought Evolution. Love it. No regrets. We are able to ride with all 4 seats filled from Citrus Grove to Sumpter Landing and back on 40% battery use. We only charge this battery when it’s between 10-15% per manufacturer recommendation.

[pinchme54]

I purchased a Crown golf cart from Crown carts. They are located behind Russell Stover candy, Wildwood, FL. We have had it for 2 years and love it. It has air, heat, AM/FM stereo, Toyota suspension and discuss brakes. I have attached a photo. We paid $14k new. Check it out. New to TV -- coming down in January. In need of a golf cart. Interested in electric -- gas is too noisy and smelly for me and my bride. 2 options on electric - Lithium and lead-based. Lithium is preferred. Which makes/models are good? Initially interested in Evolution, but I realize that others like Club Car and EZ-GO exist. Can others share the good/bad/ugly of their experiences? TIA. And if you have/know of one for sale, drop me a PM, thanks.

[Redwood8300]

Look at an Atomic.
Atomic Cool Kartz (https://atomiccoolkartz.com/)

[DavidStockhausen]

Try Star Sirius at Crown Carts, independent ride for smooth ride, standard battery will go 50-60 miles per charge, 80-90 with Lithium upgrade

[DaleDivine]

I have one also, and when I back into the garage, I definitely get a little exhaust smell. Doesn't really faze me, but I can't deny its existence.

I'm sure if anyone pulls their car into the garage they can smell fumes as well. They just never pay any attention to it because they are used to it.
:ohdear::ohdear::ohdear:

[DaleDivine]

Have had lead-acid golf carts in the past and will no longer get 1 of those. $1000 every 4-5 years to replace the batteries. Also, you need to check the water level in the batteries every quarter and these batteries start losing their range of charge as time passes.
If you want electric, lithium is the best choice for both maintenance and length of service and range. The big downside is paying $3000-$4,000 for a new set of lithium batteries every 7 years. If you are environment conscience, batteries of any kind are a major waste issue.
We just bought a new Yamaha drive2 gas cart and love it, quiet, no smell, 300+ mile range. The main maintenance you need to do is change the oil once a year and maybe adjust the valves. Down the road many many years from now, you will need an engine rebuild which is fairly cheap compared to replacing batteries

And then you got to think, Where are they dumping all these batteries after they die???

:ohdear::ohdear::ohdear:

[tophcfa]

I'm sure if anyone pulls their car into the garage they can smell fumes as well. They just never pay any attention to it because they are used to it.
:ohdear::ohdear::ohdear:

After using my diesel tractor, the two stroke chainsaws, weed wacker, and backpack leaf blower all summer and fall, the gas smell from the Yamaha golf cart in the winter is unnoticeable. It’s all relative.

[Ski Bum]

I have an electric Club Car and I can attest to the gas powered being smelly and loud. I don't think you smell or hear it as well if you are driving them. The other issues is almost everyone of the gas powered seem to be set to run 23 mph my electric runs 19 mph so you have to let the speedsters by a lot. One other thing is the pollution and the gas powered may eventually not be allowed:

A gas-powered golf cart with a 10.5 horsepower engine that operates for 2.5 hours each week emits 1474.2 pounds of CO2 each year, according to a study by Princeton University.

2.5 hours x 52 weeks = 130 hours So you are telling me it emits 11.34 pounds of CO2 an hour?

At 20 mph x 130 hours = 2600 miles / 40mpg = 65 gallons How do you get 22.67 pounds of CO2 per gallon?

[G.R.I.T.S.]

Depends upon where you live. If you live north of 44, electric will work. Our lead acid electric cart will get about 40 miles before the towing service needs calling. Gas has a much, much farther range. If you live south of 44, the golf courses are so far away, that gas is your only real option for going to LSL and getting back.

sorry to be the bearer of bad news if you live in Southern Oaks.

Ummm…Hate to break it to you but those living north of 44 actually manage to travel south, so wouldn’t a gas cart be recommended for them too? I’d suggest a gas cart to have access to all parts of the villages.

[OhioBuckeye]

New to TV -- coming down in January. In need of a golf cart. Interested in electric -- gas is too noisy and smelly for me and my bride. 2 options on electric - Lithium and lead-based. Lithium is preferred. Which makes/models are good? Initially interested in Evolution, but I realize that others like Club Car and EZ-GO exist. Can others share the good/bad/ugly of their experiences? TIA. And if you have/know of one for sale, drop me a PM, thanks.

I’ve always had a gas cart & I never ever smelled gas fumes & the Quiet Tech carts aren’t like the old style, beside the electric carts are great but I would drive my cart sometimes 50 to 70 miles. So just my personal selection I preferred the gas carts. There’s Pro’s & Con’s on both. A tank of gas would get me 240 miles. Electric would get you 45 to maybe 60 miles. (the new ones will)

[srswans]

And then you got to think, Where are they dumping all these batteries after they die???

:ohdear::ohdear::ohdear:

Old lithium batteries will eventually be collected and wired together to create electricity storage facilities to backup solar/wind plants so we can get power after dark and when the wind isn’t blowing

[pedwards2932]

There is a core charge on lead acid and I believe they recycle the lead. You can argue the Princeton study but I suggest you either do the test yourself or talk with someone qualified to explain the research. Even if the study is not totally accurate you cannot deny there IS pollution from the exhaust of an internal combustion engine,

[bilclif]

I just bought a 2022 Star Sirius lithium golf cart from The Villages Golf Carts. They have inventory on hand, which is probably because these are new and a little pricey. I sold a 2010 Yamaha gas. I am enjoying all the advantages of lithium; quiet, no smell, no stops for gas, no battery maintenance. This cart has a built-in charger so you can bring cord with you and plug in anywhere. I played golf last week at Glenview which was a 30 mile round trip, including 18 holes, and the battery was at 50% when I got home.

[frank1975]

No smell to gas carts. In fact I never heard of that. If are planning to be out and about in your cart you'll regret getting battery. 80% of cart owners use gas.

[nhtexasrn]

New to TV -- coming down in January. In need of a golf cart. Interested in electric -- gas is too noisy and smelly for me and my bride. 2 options on electric - Lithium and lead-based. Lithium is preferred. Which makes/models are good? Initially interested in Evolution, but I realize that others like Club Car and EZ-GO exist. Can others share the good/bad/ugly of their experiences? TIA. And if you have/know of one for sale, drop me a PM, thanks.

We have 2 Tomberlin electrics that we love. We have been all over TV and across 44 and back with no problem at all. Battery to spare. The actual range is about 50 miles. Ours aren't the lithium batteries but it's no problem to check the water. The Tomberlin dealer provided a quick filler system that's great. A friend has a Tomberlin lithium and loves it as well. He took it from village of Fenney to Spanish Springs and back. Still had battery. They are quiet and you sit up a little higher than other carts. Ours have power steering and seat belts. Check them out. Luxus Tomerberlin dealership is in Leesburg.

[dewilson58]

After using my diesel tractor, the two stroke chainsaws, weed wacker, and backpack leaf blower all summer and fall, the gas smell from the Yamaha golf cart in the winter is unnoticeable. It’s all relative.

As we all get older, there is always more gas.
Jus say'n.

:boom:

[Joper]

I was the first customer to test drive the Yamaha quiet tech when it arrived. My husband had a gas cart, I had electric. I was in the market for a new one. Once you have an electric cart, you still notice the slightly less noise and smell of gas. I bought a new electric. Whenever we went out as a couple my husband insisted we take my cart for quietness. I may be looking into the lithium also. Good luck!

[SHIBUMI]

Whatever you decide, arguments both ways, make sure you have the most comfortable seats. Your butts will thank you. El Tigre seats are best, not the makers seats. When electrics charge, they emit a gas. You need to make sure you air out garage in the morning. Golf courses with large electric fleets have to put exhaust fans in the building.
Good Luck!

[Jhnidy]

Come on down to Magnolia Plaza. I will take you to lunch in LSL using my evolution cart. And only use half the battery. Lithium is a game chnager.

[UpNorth]

No smell to gas carts. In fact I never heard of that. If are planning to be out and about in your cart you'll regret getting battery. 80% of cart owners use gas.

Just follow one in a tunnel. It will change your mind.

[GpaVader]

Neighbor and I both bought the Evolution from the Villages Discount and have been very happy with them. He drives his all over the place and I have yet to test the range of it, but it will happen... BTW we live in the Hammocks of Fenney so everything is a drive... My question is where do people South of the Turnpike buy gas for their golf cars? I know they are going to build a 7-11 in Magnolia Square and I thought another gas station on 301 and Warm Springs but I haven't seen anything yet.

[Vermilion Villager]

Now do the lithium battery….

‘Lithium-ion technology has downsides — for people and the planet. Extracting the raw materials, mainly lithium and cobalt, requires large quantities of energy and water. Moreover, the work takes place in mines where workers — including children as young as seven — often face unsafe conditions.‘

Battery-grade lithium can also be produced by exposing the material to very high temperatures — a process used in China and Australia — which consumes large quantities of energy.

Cobalt is an important part of a battery’s electrode, but around 70% of this element is found in just one country: the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Around 90% of the DRC’s cobalt comes from its industrial mines (90,000 tonnes annually). But in a country where people earn, on average, less than $1,200 annually, the world’s demand for cobalt has attracted thousands of individuals and small businesses, called artisanal miners — and child labour and unsafe working practices are rife.
Oh and don't forget the cost of the lunch and it's effect on the planet to produce for all those miners that ate today!!! :ohdear:JESUS!! So...you want to go into what it takes to produce a gallon of gas??? I really don't think you want to go down the road....I can name 3800 people who died on 9-11 because of our dependence on that gallon of gas....AGAIN, you do not want to go down that road.

[pattik]

I strongly suggest you try a Yamaha Quiet Tech before you make your purchase. I bought a new 2022 Yamaha Quiet Tech cart and am very happy. It's quiet, not at all like my 2013 was. The new carts are a much nicer ride also. As far as availability, I ordered my new cart from The Villages Gordon's Garage in Lake Sumter Landing in June and got it in early November. I was given a loaner cart until my new cart arrived but I'm not sure they're still doing that. Good luck and welcome!

[Vermilion Villager]

The OP SPECIFICALLY asked about electric golf carts....says he DOESN'T WAS GAS!!!
Yet here we are reading posts from the gas cart lovers. This topic isn't for you...maybe sit this one out!!:welcome:

[JMintzer]

If you buy evolution, stay AWAY from village discount. They put in speed governors. 20 MPH does not sound bad until you realize that everybody else is traveling at a higher speed. If you would like to drive a 20 MPH you are welcome to try mine.

All shops put governors on their carts, set about 20 mph...

My gas Yamaha tops at 21, with a tailwind... I'm rarely passed...

[Larchap49]

Have gas Yamaha quiet tech, can’t smell it at all. Where does this smell supposed to come from?

Smell is only an issue if you but one with a rear seat, the rear seat passengers do get exhaust smell. Also long term the spark arrestor in the exhaust on the quietechs can plug up and cause driveability issues. Removing them causes the noise level to go up.

[JMintzer]

This is off topic, but while not new to ToTV, I'm confused by posters simply typing "///" as a response. What does "///" mean?

The software doesn't allow you to completely delete a post. So when people want to delete a post, you must edit your post instead. All posts must have at least 3 characters, so people have adopted leaving /// as a way to "delete" their posts...

[kathyspear]

I am very happy with my Tomberlin electric cart. I can go 40 miles on a full charge using lead acid batteries. Mine is a 2019 model. Looks like a little jeep.

They are adorable!

kathy

[golfing eagles]

They are adorable!

kathy

I agree. They're like a real golf cart's cute little sister :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[mrf0151]

Engine rebuild? Like no sooner than 20 some years on these Yamaha motors.

[lauron57]

Yamaha and convert to Lithium.
Since Yamaha came out with the Drive2 carts, I've had 3 new ones, both electric and gas. I would suggest a Yamaha Drive2/AC electric, new or used. If it doesn't give you the range you want, swap out the batteries with a RoyPow Lithium. Surprising, I had no problem selling my used acid batteries on Craigslist. Extremely easy to install this unit. I have the middle of the three sizes they offer. My 105ah battery and charger was about $2700 delivered. It also came with an "install kit" specific to my cart. I can get 50-60 miles easy @ 19-20mph - which is the max with Yamaha electric stock controller. If you want to match (or exceed) the 24-26 mph that a lot of the gas carts go, just bolt on an upgraded controller. The RowPow only takes up half the space under the seat, so you could even mount the charger on-board and carry a standard extension cord to charge anywhere you can find an outlet! Oh... almost forgot to mention that my cart is now 400 lbs lighter too! (I had 8 - 6V batteries @ 62lbs each, new unit is 95lbs). No, I don't sell this stuff nor am I a paid endorser, I'm just mechanical, like to tinker with things and help people. Msg me if you want details.

[unialimon]

Old lithium batteries will eventually be collected and wired together to create electricity storage facilities to backup solar/wind plants so we can get power after dark and when the wind isn’t blowing

I'm sure NYC will be all over this idea. With no natural gas they will need it.

[JMintzer]

Old lithium batteries will eventually be collected and wired together to create electricity storage facilities to backup solar/wind plants so we can get power after dark and when the wind isn’t blowing

They'll used dead lithium batteries, that no longer hold a charge, to store electricity?

[OhioBuckeye]

No smell to gas carts. In fact I never heard of that. If are planning to be out and about in your cart you'll regret getting battery. 80% of cart owners use gas.

I totally agree with you but if someone has an electric cart there’s no way we’ll convince them otherwise. Just like like us gas cart owners. The only thing electric cart owners don’t tell you how much to replace their batteries, I’m sure they’ll say something real low. But I say drive what you want, they’re both good. Even the dealer will tell you gas carts are better, but buy what you want! My first gas cart I had, had 26, 387 miles on it when I traded it.

[Jean G]

If you purchase 2017 or newer they are not noisy. If you keep the back flap closed you will not have the odor

[JMintzer]

If you keep the back flap closed you will not have the odor

Sage advice with or without a golf cart! :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[triflex]

If the lithium batteries would go 125 miles on a charge to offset the degradation on charging capacity, I'd buy lithium. Even Teslas lose 10% of their range and become more finicky with charging by 100,000 miles.

IMO, only Tesla will survive in the EV world. The other Johnny-Come-Latelys are going to fail because because batteries are still not advanced enough to replace over 100 years of ICE know-how.

I have a Yamaha on order and I know I won't need to worry about the things battery getting thin on me on several levels.

If Toyota's solid-state battery research makes a reliable 10 -minute charge possible then those cells would likely cause me to switch to an EV golf cart. I own two electric bikes and I also owned an electric skateboard (lol) and if anything goes wrong with the battery I would have no idea how to fix it or find someone to fix it other than the factory.

[triflex]

If the lithium batteries would go 125 miles on a charge to offset the degradation on charging capacity, I'd buy lithium. Even Teslas lose 10% of their range and become more finicky with charging by 100,000 miles.

IMO, only Tesla will survive in the EV world. The other Johnny-Come-Latelys are going to fail because because batteries are still not advanced enough to replace over 100 years of ICE know-how.

I have a Yamaha on order and I know I won't need to worry about the things battery getting thin on me on several levels.

I have two electric bike's and did own an electric skateboard (lol).

[Tbrazie]

New to TV -- coming down in January. In need of a golf cart. Interested in electric -- gas is too noisy and smelly for me and my bride. 2 options on electric - Lithium and lead-based. Lithium is preferred. Which makes/models are good? Initially interested in Evolution, but I realize that others like Club Car and EZ-GO exist. Can others share the good/bad/ugly of their experiences? TIA. And if you have/know of one for sale, drop me a PM, thanks.
Evolution and very happy. Lithium and hate those stinky gas carts. Especially in the tunnels

[jbartle1]

There is the "cute" factor that also must be considered, sooooo, we bought an electric Yesteryear, which uses 6 Trojan batteries that last approx. 5 years, cost was $750, might be higher now, and quiet (unless you need to use the adorable, giggle, horn)

[Papa_lecki]

I totally agree with you but if someone has an electric cart there’s no way we’ll convince them otherwise. Just like like us gas cart owners. The only thing electric cart owners don’t tell you how much to replace their batteries, I’m sure they’ll say something real low. But I say drive what you want, they’re both good. Even the dealer will tell you gas carts are better, but buy what you want! My first gas cart I had, had 26, 387 miles on it when I traded it.

Using the internet to convince an electric cart owner that gas is superior or vice versa is like using the internet to argue politics.
No one is changing their mind because of an internet post.

[cj1040]

New to TV -- coming down in January. In need of a golf cart. Interested in electric -- gas is too noisy and smelly for me and my bride. 2 options on electric - Lithium and lead-based. Lithium is preferred. Which makes/models are good? Initially interested in Evolution, but I realize that others like Club Car and EZ-GO exist. Can others share the good/bad/ugly of their experiences? TIA. And if you have/know of one for sale, drop me a PM, thanks.
We ordered a lithium EZ Go from Villages golf cars in Brownwood early October. It should be here end of March or early April. We got a loaner after 2 months but they are ending that program. We had been interested in the Star Car but the steering is very hard to turn, glove compartment hard to open, not a very nice dash board compared to the EZ Go. The welding is rough and messy at the joints...reminded me of farm equipment....we ruled out gas due to noise, smell, and nuisance of buying gas, and maintaining. Electric was ruled out as we go north for a month or more and batteries can dry out. We will enjoy our EZ Go!

[UpNorth]

We ordered a lithium EZ Go from Villages golf cars in Brownwood early October. It should be here end of March or early April. We got a loaner after 2 months but they are ending that program. We had been interested in the Star Car but the steering is very hard to turn, glove compartment hard to open, not a very nice dash board compared to the EZ Go. The welding is rough and messy at the joints...reminded me of farm equipment....we ruled out gas due to noise, smell, and nuisance of buying gas, and maintaining. Electric was ruled out as we go north for a month or more and batteries can dry out. We will enjoy our EZ Go!

We leave our lead-acid battery cart in our garage for 6 months over the Summer. A friend comes in to plug the charger in once a month. Never needed to add water to the batteries during this period. Lithium is great, but much more expensive at this point.

[MorTech]

EZGO Elite or Star Sirius. The EZGO 4.2 has a range of about 60 miles and charges at about 10 miles for every hour. The Star Sirius lithium has a range of about 80 miles and charges about the same speed. Both are about $18K at the villages golf cars. I think the Star is a better buy but both are going to be reliable for at least 10 years. With EZGO, all you do is replace the tires when they wear out and just plug it in the wall every night. No brake pads or oil changes. Zero maintenance. I see a lot of Evolution carts south of 44. I don't really trust the longevity of the lithium pack like I do with EZGO and Star. Lithium battery degradation is far less than with lead-acid. Your EZGO will degrade linearly to about 50 miles of range over about 10 years. You don't need to keep lithium batteries fully charged like lead-acid but ideally you should store lithium batteries at about 50% if you are away for more than one month. Lithium batteries don't like to sit fully charged for long periods of time. I am using my neighbors EZGO Elite whilst she is away for the holidays. It is an excellent cart but is does feel a bit tippy when cornering. It is higher off the ground than others. The Star cart has a bit more giddy up.

Yamaha will be coming out with their lithium cart Spring of 2022. Yamaha website states "Coming Soon".

For all the fear-ridden television watchers - CO2 is plantfood...it makes plants green.

Can someone explain to me in scientific terms why lithium batteries are not recyclable? LiFePO4 or NCM. Lead-acid batteries are 99% recyclable.

[MorTech]

When you oxidize a hydrocarbon, it gains weight - You are adding oxygen. The specific energy of a hydrocarbon is actually zero until you add oxygen.

HC + O2 -> H2O + CO2 (aka, plantfood)

Burning 6.3 pounds of gasoline produces 20 pounds of carbon dioxide.
Burning 6.3 pounds of gasoline produces 8.3 pounds of water.

[grubberlr]

live in St Catherines, Meggison and Morse , south of 44.
have driven to amderwood and oakliegh, executive courses, then to denny’s for dinner, then home

45 miles round trip, plenty of battery left
ez go elite litium 120ah battery

easy 50-55 mile range

[Calisport]

I have a star lithium. Can't imagine having a gas cart. Some bugs since it brand new like the clock doesn't work yet. They are working on a clock fix. Star parts are available only through South Carolina and originally sourced through Shanghai. But 1 year bumper to bumper fixes and 5 years warranty on the battery. Battery around maybe $4000 now. 70-80 miles on a 4 hour full charge.