New resident gold cart questions
 

Greetings,

I’m a new resident in the Villages and have decided on a lithium powered cart. I have driven all three types, AGM, Lithium and Gas and I prefer the lithium version. I’m looking for a 4 seat facing forward and would appreciate any information/input regarding a good unit for a newbie.

Thank you,

Andy

If you visit any of the squares on any evening, you'll probably see 80 to 90 percent of the golf carts are gas-powered Yamahas. They are the most popular and seem to keep their resale value better because of this. That said, electric carts are coming on strong. The new battery technologies are giving people the confidence to go longer distances in them. Electric carts are quieter than gas (though Yamaha "Quietech" golf carts are relatively quiet) and can go from 0 to 20 mph in a heartbeat. Gas carts are less hassle in that you fill the tank every few hundred miles vs plugging them in every night. Gas carts can run with very basic maintainance for a LOT of years where electric carts need to have fairly expensive batteries replace every few years (though the number of years is getting better). Some of the electric carts are of Chinese manufacture and are now subject to 100% tariffs (up from 25%), so the prices have gotten a little nutty.

If you absolutely MUST have a four-seater, your passengers will love you for having all four seats facing forward. It's a dirty little secret but basically NOBODY loves riding facing the rear in converted two-seaters and the suspension on standard two-seaters really isn't ideal at all for the weight of four adults. The front-facing four-seaters really can't be parked "nose-in" style, sharing a car parking spot with 3 other golf carts; they really need to be parallel parked. They also look pretty stupid on golf courses (hey, that are GOLF carts, after all!). Think about how often you'll be using the rear seats. If it's pretty often, by all means get a four-seater. I know of some inseperable couples who are always on the four-seater belonging to one or the other of the couples. If it's only once in a while, you might want to consider getting a standard two-seater and renting a four-seater for those rare occaisions where you need the other two seats. You'll save a bunch in the long run and have a better-riding cart.

Good luck with whatever you choose!

Best of luck, OP. I'm sorry to tell you that the majority of replies will not answer the question that you asked. They will tell you everything else, but they won't answer the actual question.
I am switching my batteries over to lithium and I'm really looking forward to it. Like you, I also had driven all types and lithium is the hands down winner. I hope that someone who actually owns one, like you asked in the OP, will answer the question and you can wade thru the thread hijackers as they try to dredge up the gas vs electric bs for the thousandth time.

Look at the EZGO Elite....very nice! Village Golf Cars can likely meet your needs, but get ready to shell it out.

Just like I drove all of them, and even though it says “custom”, that isn’t what it really means. We’ve decided on a lithium powered, only thing we’re waiting on is finding out about a certain color.

We are very happy with our EZGo lithium. Ours is only two seats so I can't tell you anything about the four seaters.

Others have good things to say about the Star and the Evolution.

One thing we avoided was the taller carts. There are at least two tunnels in the northern section that have lower clearances. The tall carts *should* be able to make it through but we didn't want to take the chance.

Don't even consider anything but Lithium in electric.

Watch this....

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=abQ--j5THC4

They are expensive. The Yamaha gas has the engine under the back seat so the front seat passengers will suffer less noise and stink.

I recenty took a test drive on a CDR C2 lithium & like it. They also have a 4 seat version but dont know if the back seat faces forward, i aggree a forward back seat would be better.
Promotional Video:
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This site has 2024 Evolution Electric Vehicles D5-Ranger 4 160ah at a reasonable cost. Don't be afraid to go outside The Villages. New Inventory | The Golf Cart Company | Clermont Florida

Silver....don't forget to attend the golf cart clinic!

Start your inventory search here Evolution Golf Cart Land O' Lakes, FL | New Port Richey, FL

Then price-compare elsewhere. While Hidden Creek is new to The Villages they have established stores elsewhere and have moved into a red-hot golf cart market.

EzGo is the best choice for lithium cart. It will cost more than the others and have a bit shorter yet adequate range. it is made in the USA. The battery comes with at least an 8 year warranty, but is expected to last longer than that. We have a two year old EzGo with rear facing extra back seat which I find very comfortable. If you want to spend less, the other manufacturers seem to be getting more market share as time go on. Test drive is strongly recommended on all.

We still like gas Yamaha----don't worry about charging or cart stopping while out; the only garage fires from golf carts were electric; would not get 4 seater cart---rent one if you have company; golf clubs will stick out while parked; not as convenient while playing golf, harder to get covered if unexpected rain, etc.

The Evolution D5 Ranger has more features and costs $10K less than a comparable EZ-Go or Star. All of the forward facing 4 seaters (except for the Yamaha) have an issue with height - not sure why the manufacturers seem to need to build the roofs so high. I have a over a foot clearance over my head. On my D5, I had them put smaller tires (stock are 14" rims) on - 205/45r12 with 12" rims. This lowers the cart by 2.3". I also lowered the roof in the back by 2.25". Once that's done, the cart is not much taller than a standard Yamaha and no issues in any tunnels.

The D5 is only 13" longer than a standard Yamaha Drive 2, and about 2' shorter than the Yamaha Forward Facing 4 seater. I have 1,800 miles on mine and it's the best cart I've ever owned or driven.

Like you I prefer electric, very quiet and no gas fumes that give me headaches. Lithium has 8 yr warranty.
We opted for conventional 4 seater as it’s rare occasions we need 4 facing forward and longer rides we’ll take auto cars. Rent another car if visitors stay longer.
If you have a golf cart garage measure the space before you buy! our conventional 4 seater barely fits with only 3 inches to spare. Neighbor bought Star and wouldn’t fit.
As for brands, test drive and compare. I find ICON perform best of all in acceleration, uphills and go 25 mph right out of the factory, not needing dealer adjustments. We’ve tried Evolution, Bartenili.and don’t be afraid to go outside TV. Plus they are assembled in Tampa.
Good luck

We have an ezgo elite 4 seater only about 10 inches longer than our Yamaha gas cart. Can be parked in the same area as the Yamaha. Only problem is the roof is to tall for the Saddlebrook tunnel. I lowered the roof and showed it to the Spanish Springs Villages golf store. Don't know if they have remedied the fix with the manufacturer.

Have had electric for 16 years and wouldn't dream of anything else. I have never once been stranded or even approached capacity.
Have had EZ-Go lithium for 3 years and love it. Given the Villages dramatic expansion, I prefer to take a car for long distances. I

and I'm looking forward to more garage fires due to the LI batteries!!!!! you guys just go enjoy LOL

Lithium batteries
 

I guess the main question would be power outages and lithium batteries fires 🔥. Are you close to a fire hydrant. Do you park it in your garage?

Test drove all at The Villages store. Best driving I found was the Yamaha, but the worse battery according to the salesman. Such a shame.

Source please.

There have been very few golf cart fires reported in the Villages; I can think of none that were attributed to lithium batteries but several that were gas carts. There was one garage fire with a golf cart in the photo but it was not clear the cart was involved in any way.

We are new Villagers. Michael and Tiffany on You tube tested out every single different one and decided on this one. We drove a few different as well and decided on the same one. They have a new small showroom here in The Villages. Ours is on order in Sublime Green A Ranger 4. You should check them out as their prices are very reasonable as well.

Contact Us | Hidden Creek Golf Carts | Brooksville Florida

Here is Michael and Tiffanys YouTube page. THey have two shows with their new cart:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KS5t2lYwr1w

I have the Evolution, just stay away from the local dealer, he's about 3-4,000 more than other dealers.

they delivered the cart and were great to deal with and set the speed at 25
the local folks refuse

The Golf Cart Company - New & Used Golf Carts, Parts, Service, and Financing in Clermont, FL. Near Minneola and Orlando

Lithium Battery cart
 

I just bought an Atomic Cool Kart a month ago and love ❤️ it so far! It is enclosed, has small back seat and has heat and A/C, back up camera, blue tooth, electric windows.. Have not actually golfed with it yet to see how inconvenient getting in and out of it.. I love going to the store, bank, exercise classes, etc. It has a speedometer, odometer, and battery status. Can drive it and be hands free responding on connected phone. Trunk has room for 8 bags of groceries! Atomic Cool Carts across from Sparr on 44.
(352) 461-0854

Can remember only two power outages in the six years I have owned here with only one lasting for more than an hour. Have not heard conclusively of even one lithium cart fire (several rumors and claims with no evidence to back them up).

Actually the stats show far more fires with gas powered carts than electric.

We test drove the Evolution recently and are still trying to decide on gas/electric. It’s a nice looking cart with decent range. They mentioned the Evolution no longer sells the larger battery. I’m learning from everyone’s posts. Good luck!

I bought an Evolution with 4 seats forward and love it. These are new to the area and quite a bit less expensive, even with larger battery. It has built in speakers and camera for backing up. They get 70 miles per charge. You should definitely check them out.

Golf Cart
 

[QUOTE=Silversurfer007;2339937]Greetings,

I’m a new resident in the Villages and have decided on a lithium powered cart. I have driven all three types, AGM, Lithium and Gas and I prefer the lithium version. I’m looking for a 4 seat facing forward and would appreciate any information/input regarding a good unit for a newbie.

Thank you.

Good luck with the electric cart. Make sure you get cart aide as you will need them!

We purchased EzGo elite 2 seater very happy no issues noise or exhaust smell. Only suggestion I would give no matter what you buy make sure you get the upgraded seats, it's well worth it.

I decided to go with an Evolution D5 Ranger 4 forward seat golf taller cart with a 205 amp lithium battery even though I was cautioned about potential issues going through some tunnels up north. The dealer told me he'd give me smaller tires to lower the cart but that he was certain that I wouldn't have a problem. So far, the dealer was right. I've been through just about every tunnel up north with no issues. I have not been through the Saddlebrook tunnel, but it doesn't look any lower than others, however the steep angle going into the tunnel could be an issue. I will try it at some point but so far, I'm very happy with the purchase decision.

I was told at Villages Gold Cars last year that lithium ion powered carts now make up a large majority of sales, a huge shift. Yamaha sales are way down.

I have owned 5 Yamaha gas carts but switched to a Lithium over a year ago. Will never go back to gas. No oil changes, filters, gas cans, fumes etc. Much more power and no noise. I can go over 60 miles and that is more than I which to travel in a cart. I own an Atlas and they have a dealer on 441. One Stop golf carts. Check it out, they had a good inventory the last time I stopped.

I own a Yamaha Concierge 4 seats all facing forward (Gas). Love it. AS for lithium I recently saw a video of someone getting an Evolution D5 near Brownwood from:

Evolution Golf Cart Land O' Lakes, FL | New Port Richey, FL

I believe the price was around $10K new with an 8 year battery warranty. My suggestion is to at least check them out, if have not already.

As far the comments about unable to park like others, 95% I can with no problems. The facing forward seats are awesome and a more enjoyable ride for everybody.

Also, I have used on the golf course, no problems.

Good Luck

Hi Andy.

Welcome home!!!!!

If you decided on lithium, this is the information you will need and will keep you going!

1st choice should be a 210amp lithium. This will have you going from the deep south by Eastport to the deep North past Spanish Springs and back and have plenty left.

In saying that only a few manufacturers have it. Be patient and wait for it. If you must, then get a 180amp. Little less range but still gets you round trip like above just will be pretty deleted by the end of the night. Makes it hard for an additional run. Whatever happens, don't let anyone sell you a 105amp. You will be on your tippy toes trying to make said trip.

Now, next up. 4 forward versus 2 plus 2(backwards)

We have a 2 plus 2 210amp lithium cart. Absolutely amazing! We are buying a 2nd cart that will be 4 forward.

Why? Well, we have a lot of visitors. As much as they can sit backwards in somewhat comfort, it is uncomfortable for longer trips. It also makes it harder to have good communication between the front and back seats.

Everyone can fight it, but there is nothing like a 4 forward lithium cart. It is the new wave. On the south side, they are everywhere and getting more popular. Super comfortable, quiet, great pick up especially going up the hills and literally no maintenance. I have put 2300 miles on mine since March and it runs like a dream.

Few disadvantages of 4 forward.

1. Length. Need to park in car space most of the time. Rarely can you go in a space forward like the other carts. Your tail will stick out. There a few exceptions but you want to be about 115 inches from front to back or less. There is no "rule" but you will probably get clipped if you hang out to far.

2. A bit more "effort" to turn the cart, especially into tighter tunnels.

3. Somewhat awkward if you use it for golf. Bag is an attachment off the back and then you will be even longer.

Here is the fun part. Shopping! There are great choices inside and outside of the Villages. Just compare, test drive and feel which one you like. Budget is super important, so know how much you want to spend and it will dictate the purchase. Also, do NOT buy used. People don't know this, but warranties are non transferable. So a 5 or 8 year lithium battery warranty only holds to the original purchaser.

Finally, here are the brands you can shop for in the categories listed above.

There is a cost/quality component so you can see large swings in price. Sometimes there is a reason and sometimes they charge more just because. You will see what I mean when you test drive them and shop.


4 forward Lithium 210 include:

Tomberlin Emerge or Engage (New model with heat and ac) - high quality, made locally in Leesburg, full of features that most carts don't have and you will love how it handles. Once of the top priced carts as well but worth every penny. Also looks different than other carts.

Bintelli Beyond - great cart, made in the USA, reasonably priced. They will make the cart a 210 by connecting 2 105s. That works!!!

CustomDrive c4. 4 forward will be coming out in August/September so you need to pre order them. They will give you a deal on the rental until your cart is delivered. Sold by Village Discount Cars. Funny enough, they are the Tomberlin dealer as well. Absolutely packed with features and their C2 version is comfortable and the cart handles well.

Star Sirrius- good ride, comfortable and they recently upgraded their tech package. One of the more pricey carts but they are sold here at the Village Golf Car Store if that is important to you.

Evolution Ranger D5 - need to wait for a 210 as they are back ordered so you might have to get a 165/180. That was discussed above. Comfortable ride, full of features and the best priced 210amp if you can find it. Made in China if that matters to you. Does to some bottoming oit of the 2 front passengers are "heavier". Quality not there like Tomberlin or Bintelli but you will save thousands! You are starting to see an uptick in the Villages of the Evolution Randger D5, especially down here in the South end.

Goat Rides Golf Cart - lots of features and priced in the Mid to high teens. Can not attest to ride quality, but they seem to have good reviews. Need to order it from them and then they have it delivered.

Atlas has one coming out if it hasn't already. I got an Atlas 2 plus 2 for my friend with a 210 and he loves it.


Lithium 160-180 batteries

Again ,Evolution Ranger D5 is in this category as mentioned above

Ez Go Liberty - close to 20k. Not alot of features and a bit uncomfortable for taller drivers. Pedal is really close to the right foot so you seem highly cocked back when your foot is on the pedal. Figure you need to be about 5'8 or less to be comfortable. Also sold in the Villages if that matters to you.

Bintelli Nexus- great new model with alot of features including fans and roof speakers. They come with 72v 165amp which they claim has comparable range to a 48v 210amp lithium. I can not confirm nor deny that claim.

Denago Rover XL - sharp looking golf cart. I have seen 2 now in the Villages and stopped each person for feedback. They love it. Said it is super comfortable and has good range to round trip the Villages from South to North and back. Well priced as well. They are naturally lifted so you will not be able to go under the 2 low bridges up north closer to Spanish Springs.

Kandi - good looking cart at a reasonable price. Wasn't a fan of the seats but I'm a bit more picky. Looks sharp though and has decent range

Icon Epic. Same as Bintelli, they will double up your lithium batteries to get them to be like a 210. But they are naturally, more like a 160 to 105 depending on the cart. Found them to be more "pricey" for the amount or lack of features.

Gorilla Rides- nice cart with lots of features but range is about 40ish miles with 4 passengers. I was skeptical. Lol

That should really cover you. I tried to give you as much information for your initial investigation as I could. From here, I would go test drive them yourself and see what you personally like and what your budget allows. It takes time to go from 1 place to another, talk to a new sales rep and then test drive. I promise you, it is worth it. You will not have buyers remorse if you just take the time to do your own homework and take all the factors into consideration. Make it fun. I had a blast.

Now I am on the whole enclosed type golf cart research for my wife. Going though that exercise of researching and testing. She is not a fan of extreme elements so this will be great for her. Too hot, too cold, too wet, No Problem. LOL.

Good luck. Reach out to me if you need any help or would like to bounce questions off of me.

Have a blessed day.

Thanks
Serge

We purchased the Star EV Sirius 2+2 with a 210Ah battery last fall and LIFESTYLE PLUS options. We looked at other EV brands, but the writeups, videos on YouTube, etc. and weren't very impressive. We also considered the 4 forward, but we wouldn't use the back seats enough for the daily hassle of the length impact on parking options and our garage. I seldom drive further than Dabney to Brownwood and then puttering around villages looking and landscaping, etc., just because they are a time sink on long runs, and I've never been below 1/2 battery charge on a round trip. I wouldn't buy anything less than a 210 Ah lithium battery though and that should be good for around 75 miles, based on people that have done real-life testing and posted videos to show it. They are not cheap at just under $23k.

Evolution
 

I have an Evolution 4 seater forward and bought it at The Golf Cart Company in Clermont. They are now in Eustis. Great company to do business with. I would suggest buying out of the Villages. Compare the features of the Evolution and the others with a lithium battery and price. I met a gentleman in Walmart this weekend and we started talking about our carts. He has a Star and bought it in The Villages. The Evolutions has more features and he paid double what I paid for mine. He said I think I will try to sell my Star and buy an Evolution.

This is not true. In speaking with the fire chief, he says most golf cart fires are from Gas Carts. Think about it. True lithium batteries can catch fire but this is extreemly rare but with gas there have been several incidents here in the Villages in the past year where someone goes and fills up an either the gas cap was not installed tight or they splashed gas on the engine and then drove off only to have the gas ignites and burns the cart to cinders. This happened last year by the Southern Oaks bridge, this year in Sumpter Landing and I believe at Brownwood as well.

The point is both types of carts can catch fire if not used properly.

You can also look at the Atomic Carts in Wildwood.