The 70th Anniversary of the 2023 PGA Merchandise Show was held January 25-27 in Orlando, FL. With this being the first year without Covid protocols in place and with the hope that the pandemic is now in our rearview mirror, the number of exhibitors in the Golf Car/LSV sector exceeded not only the last couple of “Covid years” but the last 13 years that I have personally been attending the PGA Show. But alas, it wasn’t only the number of exhibitors as the attendees rolled into the Orange County Convention Center in droves, walking down the aisles and eyeing everything from what the Big 3 (Club Car, E-Z-GO & Yamaha) had to offer to the new technologies and advancements such as Carteav, an Israeli company that has developed and refined autonomous technology for the Golf Car/LSV marketplace. The advancements in lithium battery technology were also on full display with a variety of battery manufacturers.
It’s no secret that this Industry is in a growth mode that is indicative of reaching new heights this Industry has never seen before, despite the current economic uncertainty. As the need for electric vehicles is on the rise, it stands to reason why there are so many newcomers at the PGA Show such as the new MadJax X Series LSV, United Smart EV’s Innovate Series LSV’s or the Vivid EV Peak or “V” models. As you read on, we will go over in detail throughout this PGA Show Report what the PGA Show had to offer – it was substantial! We will also touch on the Golf Cars/LSV’s that we are more familiar with – the ones that have been around for a while, such as Tomberlin, Evolution EV, Star EV and Pilot Car EV. We will take a peek at what’s new and exciting and the new advancements in technologies that are now being incorporated into these vehicles.
Nearly 30,000 PGA Professionals, golf leaders, industry executives and retailers from more than 86 countries came together to meet with more than 800 golf companies at the 70th PGA Show in Orlando, Florida, January 24-27, 2023. Following two years of business disruptions by the global pandemic, the PGA Show was a clear sign of a positive year ahead for the continued growth of the sport and the $84 billion golf industry.
The PGA Show, organized by PGA Golf Exhibitions and the PGA of America, began in the trunks of cars at a winter golf tournament in 1954 and has grown into golf’s longest running and largest global business gathering. Among the tens of thousands of attendees were nearly 7,000 PGA, LPGA and international PGA Professionals and more than 800 media reporting from the annual event.
“The PGA Show is annually the largest gathering of PGA Professionals and industry leaders, and it has certainly lived up to that billing this year,” said PGA President John Lindert. “It was the epicenter of golf business with more than 800 companies conducting business and remains the largest stage in golf for networking, education and career development. We met with innumerable allied golf associations and organizations to develop strategies to grow participation in the game and business strategies for the months and years to come.”
“The energy on the PGA Show floor was fantastic,” said PGA of America CEO Seth Waugh. “I grew up on a trading floor (on the New York Stock Exchange) and this reminds me of the energy and enthusiasm of a busy trading day. It is reflective of the (golf) industry, basically booming. We played defense for a couple of years during the pandemic, but we’re on the verge of being all the way back now. If the PGA Show is a barometer, 2023 is going to be a great year for golf.”
“An expansive mix of companies combined with strong participation across the international golf business community at this year’s PGA Show created an industry reunion unlike any other in recent years,” said PGA Golf Exhibitions Vice President Marc Simon. “The in-person connections and vibrant business on the Show Floor resulted in an optimistic outlook that has momentum to drive the golf industry to new heights in 2023.”
“All I can say is the PGA Show is back in a big way after the pandemic,” said Ed Gibson, PGA Head Professional at Makefield Highlands Golf Club in Yardley, Pennsylvania. “The energy and enthusiasm on the PGA Show floor is something I haven’t seen in many years.”
FIRST TIME EXHIBITORS
Bear Caddy of Minneapolis, MN introduced a prototype to solve the common problems faced while using our phones on the golf course. The patented design attaches to any golf car rail magnetically with a built in Neodymium magnet. This all-inclusive package of holding and charging your phone, using popular golf apps, and take a quick phone call easily between shots if needed is a one-of-a-kind experience making the Bear Caddy one of the most desired golf car accessories on the market. The Bear Caddy also has integrated Bluetooth with a built-in speaker to play music while on the go. Availability will be mid-2023. For more information visit bearcaddygolf.com.
Carteav of Rishon LeZion, Israel unveiled the world’s first autonomous, driverless golf car. Carteav has created a unique technology that looks after itself from managed smart charging, to an app-based interface, pre-selected routes, autonomous pick-up and drop-off, and the world’s most advanced driving technology. All of this is to help manage your golf car fleet better and to specifically reduce operational costs and improve service. Carteav brings a safe autonomous solution to the geo-fenced low-speed vehicle (LSV) market – significantly reducing on-site transportation costs and thrilling riders with the extraordinary “WOW” effect. For more information visit www.carteav.com or email [email protected].
EV Titan of Sheridan, WY introduced the EV Titan Phantom & Ghost models. EV Titan’s mantra is a belief that upgrades shouldn’t be extra but as part of the standard package that their EV’s come with. Both models come completely customized at the advertised price with options that are costly upgrades with most other brands such as a premium steering wheel, 72 volt lithium battery, cupholders with storage, 10” digital touchscreen Bluetooth radio, brush guard, over-sized tires and wheels, LED headlights & brake lights, and the list goes on. For more information, visit www.evtitan.com.
INNODESIGN INC. of Palo Alto, CA unveiled the INNO-F1 Single Rider golf car. Unlike other golf cars, the INNO-F1 is designed for people who desire transportation options to the traditional multiple seat golf car. The INNO-F1 is the most stylish single rider golf car I’ve come across in all my years visiting the PGA Show. It has a sporty and modern look to it with quality components such as lithium powered battery with up to a 40 mile range, bucket seating with safety side bars, quad wheels, front & back storage compartments, removeable windshield/canopy for topless option, headlights, brake lights, built-n safety features all while providing a stable, smooth ride. For more information, visit innomobilitylab.com or call 650-559-4314.
Pilot Seating of Fort Myers, FL (headquartered in Turkey) showed off their very stylish golf car seats with a unique modular look. Pilot Seating has been designing and manufacturing seating in a variety of other industries and realized the growing golf car industry as a viable option. When you see their offerings you will notice what I consider to be a European look which certainly stands out from the competition. Pilot Seating has a dedicated team for R&D, design, prototype production, tooling as well as a testing facility. Pilot Seating carries a 24-month warranty with US offices based out of Fort Myers, FL. For more information visit www.pilot.com/tr or call 239-243-8023.
United Smart EV America of Johns Creek, GA introduced the all new Innovate, a premium low speed vehicle that once you see it, you can tell it was meant for more than just golf. With its’ modern styling, the Innovate is designed with driver comfort in mind. For starters, this LSV is 5” wider than a typical golf car, comfortably seating three people per row and features an ultra-light independent MacPherson Strut suspension for a smooth, comfortable ride and includes a powerful SK Energy Lithium battery. The Innovate LSV is available in 3 configurations (Innovate L8T, Innovate L5C and Innovate L5D). For more information, visit UnitedSmartEV.com or call 864-275-6000.
Vivid EV of Fort Myers, FL displayed the very modern-looking V Series and Peak Series NEV’s. Both models come standard with Eco-Battery lithium battery packs which is optional with most other manufacturers. During the PGA Show it was obvious that Vivid EV is on to something with constant attention at their booth from many of the show attendees. The range on a full charge is up to 50 miles which will get you where you want to go and safely back. Beyond the Eco-Battery lithium batteries as standard, you also have many other features – again while optional elsewhere – is standard with Vivid EV. And Vivid EV recently expanded to a 46,000 square foot facility to facilitate the exponential growth they are currently experiencing. For more information, visit Vivid-Ev.com.
Wet Sounds of Rosenberg, TX displayed the 12 speaker Stealth XT Powersport Soundbar. The Stealth Series soundbars come with multiple mounting options for any Golf Car/LSV and are designed to provide the ability to ride with a loud, live and clear high-performance audio solution with 300 watts of power, Bluetooth and a built-in dome light. The soundbars are constructed with corrosion resistant aluminum and have an IP-67 rating. Wet Sounds is by no means a newcomer to the High-Performance Audio industry as they have been involved in the auto and marine marketplace for well over 15 years. For more information, visit wetsounds.com or call 877-938-7757.
XCOMP Tires of Scottsdale, AZ unveiled the X Comp Golf X/T Tire from American Pacific Industries. Founded in 1982, XComp/American Pacific Industries is a leader in the tire industry. The X Comp Golf X/T is a steel belted radial tire that has a turf-friendly design and is extremely quiet with improved handling and performance along with excellent durability and tread life. The X Comp Golf X/T is available in a variety of sizes in the 12”-14” range. To learn more, please visit www.xcomptires.com or call 800-944-8414.
HIGHLIGHTS FROM SOME OF THE OTHER EXHIBITORS
Club Car displayed the all-new Tempo Lithium-ion, Gen2. Officially launched in August 2020, the Gen 2 version is a Lithium-ion powered fleet golf car with best-in-class range, performance, and safety that is low-maintenance, reducing electricity costs by 50% while saving time, increasing reliability and conserving energy which results in an overall performance of operations. The Tempo Lithium-ion boasts 25% more range than other fleet Li-Ion golf cars on average. With Tempo Connect, Visage Fleet Management and Shark Experience is included, enhancing the on-course experience. The Tempo is available with an electric motor and fully loaded with automotive styling and features a lifetime frame warranty. For more information, visit www.clubcar.com.
Club Pro Manufacturing displayed a variety of enclosures, designed to fit all models of E-Z-GO, Club Car and some Yamaha models. These enclosures are made in the USA and feature an over-the-top design for a quick install and zippered doors for easy access as well as marine grade fabric and zippers to withstand the elements with its’ patented roll-away front windshield and a 3-year warranty. They are available in green, black, tan, red or navy blue. For more information, visit www.clubpro.com or call 800-467-2844.
Club Protector displayed the highly popular, patented retractable roller enclosure available in a pull chain. Simply pull a chain and they roll up in seconds, no more rolling up by hand. The enclosures are made of the finest outdoor awning fabric available, Sunbrella canvas with durable double-stitch sewing. When rolled up, all you see is smooth, wrinkle-free canvas and with the window vinyl rolled up under the canvas, protection from the sun provides longevity. Also shown were the beautifully designed Valances with easy on/off application and a myriad of choices in colors and styles, it will make it very easy to set your golf car apart from others. For more information call 800-338-8749 or visit www.clubprotector.com.
Eagle Parts & Products displayed a wide variety of some of their high-quality specialized products including an all new T-Top that is compatible with E-Z-GO, Club Car & Yamaha. This T-Top features lightweight 1.5” aluminum tubing that’s E-Coated & Powder Coated with a huge selection of colors to choose from. Eagle Parts & Products is a Georgia corporation established in 1996. The company was started to be a leading manufacturer of Electric Convenience Vehicles and OEM/aftermarket parts for a variety of markets and industries. Eagle Parts & Products is located in Augusta, Georgia and headquartered in an over 100,000 square foot manufacturing facility with multiple production capabilities. These capabilities provide products to such companies as E-Z-GO Textron, Yamaha, John Deere, Sea World, Costco and many others. For more information call 706-790-6687 or visit www.eagleproducts.us.
ECOXGEAR displayed their popular sound bars as well as the ExtremeSub, a 500 watt peak powered 8” active subwoofer providing a significant kick to your Golf Car/LSV. The ExtremeSub is “plug and play” with the ability to connect to any brand soundbar or stereo and can wirelessly pair to any ECOXGEAR SoundExtreme soundbar. With the combination of the ECOXGEAR SoundExtreme soundbars and ExtremeSub with party lights and multiple modes allows for the ultimate in personal customization to fit your style. ECOXGEAR products are IP66 Certified dustproof and waterproof – durable and long-lasting for any environment. For more information, visit www.ecoxgear.com or call 720-343-6851.
Evolution EV displayed the D3 LSV at the PGA Show. With its’ exceptional styling, it’s apparent this was developed from the ground up. The futuristic look visually sets the D3 apart from anything else, showcasing a sporty and athletic look. It’s not just about the looks either. Standard is EPS (electric power steering) providing more comfort and ease-of-control, Four-Wheel Hydraulic Piston Disc Brakes which equates to less weight and a lower maintenance cost, multi-function dashboard with a Bluetooth touchscreen, LED lighting throughout, built-in removeable refrigerator and is powered by a lithium-ion battery pack with an integrated management system. With many more standard features and a host of colors to choose from, Evolution EV has just hit a homerun! For more information, please visit www.evolutionelectricvehicle.com or call 909-393-6800.
Flight Systems Industrial Products is a provider of new and remanufactured electronic products for golf cars and LSV’s, such as motor controllers, battery chargers, conversion kits, performance speed and torque motors. FSIP is also a distributor of the ChargePlus Flex which was on display. The ChargePlus Flex is a portable, universal, high frequency, off-board, lead acid battery charger. It features greater than 90% high-energy efficiency, easy-to-read LCD display and charge profile selection buttons. This is a professional level charger that is programmable with multiple options and meant to be used at the dealer level. For more information call 800-333-1194 or visit www.fsip.biz.
FullRiver Battery displayed their EGL Series AGM golf car battery. Made from 99% recyclable products, maintenance-free, requires no BMS due to the nature of AGM technology and rated for 1,250 cycles makes this one of the longest-lasting traditional golf car batteries on the market with double the cycles when compared to other lead-acid batteries. Unlike other battery manufacturers, Fullriver controls the entire process from grid casting, plate pasting and final assembly completed in their own facility, ensuring quality control. For more information, visit www.fullriverbattery.com.
Inventus Power displayed their high-performance lithium-ion battery solutions for golf cars and other low speed electric vehicles, featuring their NEW 48V PROTRXion™ High Discharge Li-ion Battery. Just one S-48V60-TRX-HD battery replaces six 8V lead-acid batteries which frees up space, reduces weight and provides enough power to move golf cars around the hilliest terrain. With 3.2kWh of energy and up to 20kW (28 hp) power, users can expect to achieve range up to 25 miles (3 rounds of golf) using a single battery on a single charge. Inventus Power has been in business for over 60 years, developing Li-ion power solutions for a wide range of portable, motive, & stationary applications. For more information, visit www.inventuspower.com or call 877-423-4242.
Kandi America displayed the Kandi Kruiser 4 Passenger golf car with a heavy duty UTV frame and chassis. An attractive, rugged looking vehicle featuring an AC motor with an estimated range of 50 miles, top speed of 25 MPH and a 300 lb. towing capacity. To smooth out the bumps, all Kandi Kruisers come standard with Independent MacPherson Strut front suspension and hydraulic disc brakes. Available in blue, red, silver and white and a 12-month limited warranty. For more information, visit www.kandipowersports.com.
Nivel added another feather in their cap with the introduction of the MadJax XSeries Storm, a golf car with a purpose. The MadJax XSeries Storm is targeted at recreational and secondary transportation users and will be sold through Nivel’s dealer partners across the United States. The MadJax XSeries Storm is available in 12 body colors, and offers a wide variety of seating, tire & wheel options, allowing dealers and customers to personalize the carts to meet their unique style. The MadJax XSeries Storm also comes standard with a Reliance 5kW brushless AC motor, a 400A Reliance control system, a high-capacity voltage reducer, and a 4-wheel hydraulic disc braking system. For more information, please visit www.nivel.com.
PilotCar Electric Vehicles displayed their line-up of PilotCar Electric Vehicles. Offering a unique driving experience with superior comfort, attractive, utilizing high quality components, convenient on-board charger and very competitive pricing, PilotCar EV’s place in the market is a welcomed solution to give customers exactly what they need. The presence of their luxurious model PC-2+2 lifted golf car with a rugged look and feel provides optimum performance with speed, silence and functionality. PilotCars are designed with extensive studies and developed by Mr. Ahmet Ozkilic, the President of Pilot Seating. With their own integrated production lines comes excellent care and attention. PilotCar models are designed and produced according to specific customer needs and requests. For more information, visit www.pilotcarev.com or call 239-243-8023.
Star EV, a division of JH Global Services, displayed several of their vehicles, one of which was the Sirius PTV. The engineering and refinement of the Sirius is obvious as you notice right away the high-end design laden with automotive features such as the LED lighting with daytime running lights and the beautiful ergonomics of the body styling. Optional factory-installed STAR-smart lithium battery power features top-rated LifePO4 LFP technology with built-in battery management allows a much longer range and is maintenance-free. For more information, visit starev.com or call 864-297-8833.
Stenten’s Golf Cart Accessories always draws crowds to their displays and of course one of the big draws is their golf-putting green which attracts a line of attendees on its’ own, and this year was no different at the 2023 PGA Merchandise Show as they showed off many of their highly popular accessories from rear seat flip kits, LED light kits, Gussi Italia steering wheels, rubber diamond floor mats, folding windshields and so much more, it was almost endless with high quality accessories. And with Stenten’s, it doesn’t stop there. Stenten’s started in 1986 and have become a leading supplier of golf car accessories in the industry, committed to providing the dealer with the highest quality and greatest selection of products. For more information call 800-541-8333 or visit www.stenten.com.
Textron Specialized Vehicles unveiled the E-Z-GO Elite RXV Lithium golf car with a fresh new look, redesigned with several new features to enhance the on-course experience for golfers. From front to back you will notice numerous refinements, starting with a redesigned front end that is modern and stylish. The new RXV also features a completely redesigned dashboard with much more user-friendly compartments including easy-to-load tee and golf ball holders with plenty of space for cell phones, cups, range finders, etc. You will also notice the built-in LED lights in the front end as well as the rear bumper that give it that more modernized look. The all new RXV will be in production and available in August 2023. For more information, please visit ezgo.com.
Tomberlin, a division of the Columbia Vehicle Group unveiled the Evoke, an eBike loaded with technology like you’ve never seen before. The first production run of the Evokes sold out immediately through the Tomberlin dealer network and more will be available in Q2 of 2023. With premium drive train components such as the Shimano mid-drive motor with torque sensor, carbon fiber frame and a greaseless carbon Kevlar belt, this eBike “evokes” a sense of freedom and independence as the motor quietly provides assistance up or down a hill – it is a controlled experience that you won’t find anywhere else. The statistic of “115 million auto rides each day in the US and 29 million of those rides are less than one mile” combined with the advancement in technology makes the eMobility marketplace an extremely viable option for eBikes and there is no better distributor than Golf Car/LSV Dealers who already occupy the eMobility space. For more information, visit www.rideevoke.com or call 844-363-7432.
Trojan Battery, the world’s leading deep-cycle golf car battery manufacturer, displayed the Trojan® GC2 48V Lithium-Ion Golf Battery featuring a light-weight design with an IP-67 rating and an 8-year warranty. One of the many unique features of this drop-in solution is a battery status push button with an indicator light. A simple press of this button displays the battery’s state-of-charge and operating status. While there are features that are easy to see on the surface, the technology behind the battery is what separates this from most of the competition. Each lithium cell is welded at multiple points with redundant current paths for optimal performance. There are also no heat sinks necessary to dissipate heat as the Battery Monitoring System (BMS) can monitor and detect any changes in temperature and voltage, providing a safer lithium alternative. For more information, please visit www.trojanbattery.com.
US Battery, with close to 100 years of battery design, development and innovative experience introduced its’ ESSENTIAL Li™ line of Lithium-Ion deep-cycle batteries. Being late to the party is not a bad thing when the engineers and developers are purposely taking their time and due diligence in developing lithium batteries with the US Battery name before they are ready for mass-production. ESSENTIAL Li™ batteries are engineered using Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) cell chemistry, which is widely considered the safest and most robust option currently available. This chemistry enables U.S. Battery to deliver a reliable, maintenance-free, deep-cycle battery that easily integrates into many golf cars. With increased capacity and longer runtimes, golf cars and LSV’s can drive further on a single charge. ESSENTIAL Li™ deep-cycle batteries also reach full charge in less time, substantially reducing vehicle downtime and overall operating costs when combined with zero maintenance. For more information, please visit www.usbattery.com.
Vantage Tag Systems debuted the revolutionary SR-1, a single-rider golf car that’s fun to drive with a unique styling that had crowds gawking at it during the PGA Show. But it’s not just the good looks that separate the SR-1 from the competition. The SR-1 has benefits over a conventional golf car as it’s lighter than conventional golf cars making it easier on the course with an integrated GPS Fleet Management System for course protection, extended battery life providing more rounds per charge and available programmable advertising revenue. The SR-1 has an HD Information screen with wireless phone charging, Bluetooth enabled speakers, GPS based course information and so much more. For more information on the SR-1 or any of the many other offerings by Vantage Tag Systems, visit www.vantage-tag.com or call 877-589-8806.
Yamaha Golf Car displayed the Yamaha Drive2 PowerTech Li, the only lithium-powered golf car with an independent rear suspension and new colors just introduced to the line-up. In order to ensure that the Drive2 model maintained one of the smoothest and most comfortable rides, due to the lighter weight of the RoyPow lithium battery pack (compared to the FLA batteries), the Yamaha engineers tweaked the car design to accommodate for this change – maintaining a perfect balance of ride quality with the independent rear suspension and longer range with no more battery maintenance requirements. The Yamaha Drive2 boasts a 5-year warranty with an 8-year warranty on the RoyPow lithium battery. For more information, visit www.yamahagolfcar.com or call 866-747-4027.
FUTURE SHOWS
The 71st Annual 2024 PGA Merchandise Show is scheduled for January 24-26, 2024 in Orlando, FL at the Orange County Convention Center. The 2024 Golf Industry Show will be held January 31-February 1, 2024 in Phoenix, AZ at the Phoenix Convention Center.
