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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 TO Y
®
Letter from the Editor
I've spent a good part of this year on the road, and what I've seen has been nothing short of impressive. Cart meetups in Texas and South Carolina. Drag racing in North Carolina and Virginia. Site visits and factory tours in Pennsylvania, Texas, and South Carolina. A full festival in Sanford, Florida. The golf cart culture across this country is vibrant, creative, and growing fast.
ON THE COVER
The MadJax Kinect touchscreen is on our cover this month, and it's the kind of product that makes sense the moment you see it. It's a 12.3-inch display with automotive-grade engineering, weather resistance, and smartphone integration. And, it utilizes dedicated OEM adapters to cleanly match original vehicle electronics. Nivel clearly decided golf cart owners deserved the same tech quality we've come to expect in our daily drivers.
TIRES WITH REAL CREDENTIALS
X Comp entered the golf cart market a few years ago, and they're making a statement by leaning into their motorsports background. Their tires have proven themselves in NORRA desert racing and Formula Drift competition. When a manufacturer with that kind of track record shows up in golf carts, dealers and customers take notice.
GOLF CART DRAG RACING JUST GOT REAL
The GCDRA's debut at NOPI Nationals in September is legitimacy on a bigger stage. This is sanctioned racing with structured classes, technical inspections, and cash purses. When NOPI, a brand that has defined automotive culture for 60 years, officially embraces golf cart drag racing, that's a pretty cool turning point.
THE GROWTH STORY
Lithium Rhino's company profile is a straightforward story. Founder got tired of lead-acid batteries, built something better, and three years later he's supplying Google and GE Aviation. That kind of growth only happens when customer support is genuinely at the center of everything you do.
QUALITY YOU CAN COUNT ON
ECOXGEAR's new Defender Scout continues what the brand has been known for: rugged, waterproof audio built to take a beating. ECOXGEAR doesn't compromise on durability or sound quality, and the Scout proves they haven't changed that formula.
A NEW PASS OPTION FOR THE EXPO
We just launched a new pass option for October's GolfCarting Expo & Dealer Summit. The VIP Experience Pass gives dealers access to all the premium events, meals, and entertainment without the education component. If you've been thinking about October but weren't sure which pass was right for you, this one's worth a look.
What I've noticed traveling around this year is that the energy in this space is real. The builders are serious. The dealers are invested. The community shows up. And this month's issue captures that momentum perfectly.
Enjoy the ride!
Matt White Editor matt@golfcarting.com
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Wired Speakers
Subwoofers
Marine Grade Radios
Whips and Strips
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
GOLF CARTING // Issue 75 // August 2026
Publisher: GC Media Group, LLC
Senior Editor: Matt White - matt@golfcarting.com
Creative Director: Troy Merrifield - troy@golfcarting.com
Production Director: Christian Amico - chris@golfcarting.com
Staff Writer / Social Media: Tony Benjamin
Golf Carting® is published monthly by GC Media Group, LLC. Reprinting in whole or by any means- electronic, graphic or mechanical, including photocopying or information storage and retrieval systems is forbidden without written permission from the publisher.
Advertising opportunities and inquiries to:
chris@golfcarting.com
Editorial contributions are welcomed, but editors recommend that contributors contact us first. Contribution must be accompanied by return postage, and we assume no responsibility for damage or loss of material. Manuscripts must be typewritten, and all photos have to have captions. Photo model releases of all people in photos must accompany manuscript. GOLF CARTING reserves the right to use material, and we reserve the right to edit material to meet publication requirements. E-mail contributions or inquiries to: matt@golfcarting.com
WARNING: Certain action photographs depicted in this magazine are potentially dangerous. The drivers and vehicle occupants seen in our photos are experienced professionals. Do not attempt to duplicate any stunts. Wear a helmet and safety restraints while operating a Golf Cart, and never drive beyond your capabilities. Do not drink and drive while operating a Golf Cart. We also encourage you to “Tread Lightly” while respecting the outdoors and other outdoor enthusiasts.
Use your head and enjoy the ride!
©2026 GC Media Group, LLC
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STEP INTO THE GAME
VERTEZ ADJUSTABLE BUCKET
latestindustrynews
ECOXGEAR EXPANDS THE DEFENDER FAMILY WITH THE ALL-NEW DEFENDER SCOUT
ECOXGEAR, the brand behind some of the toughest waterproof speakers on the market, recently announced the availability of the DEFENDER Scout. It is a rugged, IP67-rated Bluetooth speaker engineered for outdoor adventurers who demand the punishing durability of the original DEFENDER in a lighter, more portable 4-pound design. Available now at ecoxgear.com and in Academy stores nationwide, the DEFENDER Scout retails for $199.99.
The DEFENDER Scout delivers massive 60-watt sound through a premium 2-way speaker system, fully IP67 sealed and built to withstand rain, snow, submersion up to one meter, and the inevitable drops that come with life outdoors. Designed for trails, tailgates, campsites, and everything in between, it goes wherever the adventure takes you.
ALL-DAY SOUND, BUILT FOR THE OUTDOORS
At the heart of the DEFENDER Scout is a 60W dynamic Texas Instruments power amplifier paired with a 4" x 6" polypropylene carbon fiber blend woofer, a 1.5" titanium tweeter with double neodymium magnet design, and two 3" x 4" passive woofers. Three digital EQ settings (Indoor, Outdoor, and Favorite) let users dial in the right sound for any environment. With 25+ hours of playtime (6+ hours at full volume), a 48.1Wh rechargeable battery, and a built-in AC power option for charging while playing, the Scout is ready for multi-day adventures without compromise.
CONNECTED, LIT, AND FEATURE-LOADED
Bluetooth 5.4 wireless connectivity streams audio up to 100 feet from any paired device, and the Scout supports simultaneous dual-device pairing. ECOCAST technology allows users to link up to 100 ECOXGEAR or SoundExtreme speakers together for a fully immersive audio ecosystem, with up to 30 feet between each speaker. True left/right stereo pairing is supported for multi-DEFENDER setups.
The Scout also integrates LEDCast wireless lighting sync for compatible LEDCast accessories, addressable LED accent lights controllable via keypad or the SoundExtreme app, and a built-in flashlight, making it as useful at a campsite after dark as it is at a Saturday afternoon cookout. A 20W USB-C PD fast-charging port lets users keep their devices powered up, including the latest iPhone models.
“The DEFENDER has always stood for audio that works as hard as the people who carry it,” said Greg Fadul, CEO at ECOXGEAR. “The DEFENDER Scout is for the adventurer who wants every bit of that DEFENDER DNA, including the durability, the sound quality, and the feature set, in a lighter package that can go wherever they do.”
KEY SPECIFICATIONS
Amplifier: 60W Texas Instruments dynamic amplifier
Speaker System: 4"x6" carbon fiber woofer, 1.5" titanium
tweeter, dual 3"x4" passive woofers
IP Rating: IP67 waterproof, dustproof, submersible to 1m for 30 min; floats
Battery Life: 25+ hours (6+ hours at max volume) | 48.1Wh @ 18.5V, 2600mAh Bluetooth: 5.4 | 100-ft range | dual-device pairing
EQ Modes: Indoor, Outdoor, Favorite
Connectivity: ECOCAST (up to 100 speakers), LEDCast, stereo pairing
Charging: AC Power option; 20W USB-C PD fast-charge output
Microphone: Speakerphone, Siri & Google Assistant support
Dimensions: 10.1" x 4.2" x 5.0" | 4 lbs
Colors: Slate Gray, Whitewater
Warranty: 2-year warranty
Price: $199.99 USD
AVAILABILITY
The DEFENDER Scout is available now at ecoxgear.com and in Academy stores nationwide in Slate Gray and Whitewater colorways. MSRP: $199.99.
About ECOXGEAR
ECOXGEAR specializes in 100% waterproof, dustproof, shockproof, and rugged audio solutions built for outdoor adventure. With a lineup spanning portable Bluetooth speakers, party speakers, powersports audio, and accessories, ECOXGEAR is committed to taking your music beyond boundaries. Learn more at ecoxgear.com.
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NOPI ANNOUNCES THE DEBUT OF GOLF CART DRAG RACING WITH THE GCDRA POWERED BY NAVITAS VEHICLE SYSTEMS
NOPI is proud to announce that one of the fastest-growing segments in motorsports is coming to one of Georgia's biggest automotive events. 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 high-performance golf cart drag racing to the iconic NOPI stage.
What started as a niche hobby has quickly evolved into a serious motorsports movement, with custom-built electric and gas golf carts reaching incredible speeds and attracting racers from across the country. Now, those competitors will battle in front of thousands of fans at one of the most recognized names in automotive culture.
The GCDRA at NOPI Nationals is not an exhibition. This is real, sanctioned competition featuring structured classes, technical inspections, head-to-head racing, official rules, and a cash purse.
Racers will compete in multiple classes, from Stock and Modified divisions to Unlimited and Outlaw categories, all chasing prize money, trophies, and bragging rights.
"This is exactly the kind of innovation and excitement that NOPI has always embraced," said the NOPI Team. "The golf cart performance industry has exploded in recent years, and we're excited to provide a national stage for racers and fans to experience it firsthand."
Powered by industry leader Navitas Vehicle Systems, the GCDRA showcases the technology, creativity, and performance
that have made high-performance golf carts one of the hottest trends in motorsports today.
Fans can expect side-by-side launches, close finishes, and an entirely new form of drag racing that blends grassroots competition with cutting-edge performance.
Most importantly, this is only the beginning.
The partnership between GCDRA and NOPI represents a longterm commitment to growing the sport and introducing it to new audiences. The message is clear: Golf cart drag racing has arrived at the NOPI Nationals, and it's here to stay.
The inaugural GCDRA competition will take place during the NOPI Nationals, September 12-13, 2026, at EchoPark Speedway in Hampton, Georgia.
For event information, racer registration, class details, and tickets, visit NOPI.com.
ABOUT NOPI
With 2026 marking its 60th Anniversary, NOPI has been one of the most recognizable names in automotive culture, producing world-class events that celebrate performance, racing, aftermarket innovation, and enthusiast lifestyles. The NOPI Nationals continues that tradition by bringing together racers, manufacturers, and fans from across the country for an unforgettable weekend of motorsports and entertainment.
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Showcase this premier golf cart brand in your dealership:
Low First-Time Order Requirement
Standard Cutting Edge Lithium Battery
4-Year Warranty with Stress-Free Support
Nationwide Advertising To Drive Traffic To Your Dealership
Nationwide Dealership Support Network For Your Customers
Showroom Materials Free with First Order + Premade Marketing Materials
NEW VIP EXPERIENCE PASS LAUNCHES FOR 2026 GOLFCARTING EXPO
With October just around the corner, the 2026 GolfCarting Expo & Dealer Summit is introducing a new pass option designed to give more dealers access to the premium VIP experience.
Due to capacity limitations in the education session rooms, the All-Access VIP Dealer Pass availability is limited and will sell out soon. To accommodate dealers who want to experience all the VIP events, meals, networking, and entertainment without the education component, the Expo is launching the VIP Experience Pass at $189.
WHAT'S INCLUDED IN THE VIP EXPERIENCE PASS
The VIP Experience Pass provides:
• Three-day expo floor access
• Dealer Welcome Reception (Wednesday)
• VIP Dealer Party (Thursday)
• Golf Cart Resource Red Carpet Awards Ceremony (Friday)
• GolfCarting Expo After Dark concert with Jacquie Roar (Friday)
• All meals included (breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks)
• Discounted hotel rates
• Saturday public GolfCarting Expo access
• Swag bag with exclusive merchandise
The VIP Experience Pass does not include access to the education sessions and workshops.
CURRENT PRICING AND AVAILABILITY
All-Access VIP Dealer Pass - $299
(Limited availability; will sell out soon)
VIP Experience Pass - $189
Show Floor Only Dealer Pass - $79
THE EXCITEMENT BUILDS
With 86 confirmed exhibitors, a sold-out show floor, and Jacquie Roar headlining the Friday night concert, the 2026 Expo is shaping up to be the golf cart industry's premier gathering. The addition of the VIP Experience Pass ensures more dealers can participate in the VIP experience. October 1-3 is coming fast. Dealers interested in any pass option should register soon, as availability is limited. Register today at www.GolfCartingExpo.com
For questions, dealers can contact the Expo team at events@golfcartingexpo.com.
CALENDAR of EVENTS
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.
www.facebook.com/nopimotorsports
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.
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. www.golfcarting.com/event/cruzin-the-grove/
SHARE YOUR EVENT
Share your upcoming golf carting event at golfcarting.com/event-submission
GROW WITH BINTELLI
Isn’t it time you experienced the best LSV dealership program in the industry? BECOME A DEALER
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Warranty, marketing, and dealership support you can count on
Turnkey, fully-assembled, and street-legal in all 50 states
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Nationwide lead generation to drive traffic to your dealership
Flexible wholesale program
bintelli.com/become-a-dealer (843) 920-6733
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Crystal clear
If you’ve spent any time following the evolution golf carts have gone through over the last decade, you’ve watched a massive cultural shift unfold. What used to be simple, utilitarian fleet vehicles built for 18 holes have transformed into fully customized Personal Transportation Vehicles (PTVs) dominating beach towns, master-planned communities, and suburban neighborhoods.
Yet, for all the custom lift kits, premium wheels, soundbars, and seating, one massive bottleneck remained: the dashboard. While our daily-drivers gained massive digital cockpits and seamless smartphone syncing, golf cart dashes largely stayed stuck in the past.
THAT GAP JUST OFFICIALLY CLOSED.
Nivel, the industry’s undisputed innovator in aftermarket PTV solutions, has officially begun shipping the MadJax® Kinect™ 12.3" HD Touchscreen. This isn't just another bolton Bluetooth® receiver or a glorified tablet mount, it is an industry-first, automotive-grade infotainment centerpiece that fundamentally redefines the premium golf cart experience.
As Nivel’s CEO Donnie Jouppi perfectly summarized: “For years, the gap between a refurbished or legacy fleet golf cart and a new modern golf cart was defined by the dashboard... until now. Today's golf cart owners expect more than just simple transport, they demand the same level of technology, connectivity, and clarity they experience in their luxury cars.”
At the heart of this redefining accessory is an ultra-wide, 1920x720 display. Anyone who has tried to read a standard digital battery gauge or a smartphone screen squinting through the glare of a high-noon sun knows how brutal
outdoor visibility can be. MadJax® engineered the Kinect with an expansive viewing angle and high-contrast clarity designed specifically to remain perfectly legible under direct, blistering sunlight or pitch-black nighttime conditions. This is particularly handy when you integrate the MadJax® back-up camera (coming soon).
But a pretty screen is only as good as the brains behind it. The Kinect bridges the gap between vehicle mechanics and digital intelligence by offering continuous diagnostic feedback. Depending on your cart's exact setup, it displays live vehicle data & diagnostics - battery level, speed, drive mode, and power output.
Where Nivel usually wins the hearts of dealers and consumers is in the unglamorous, behind-the-scenes engineering. They didn't build a generic screen and tell consumers to figure out the wiring. The Kinect launches with meticulous, custom-tailored integration kits for the market’s biggest powerhouses.
Designed natively around a 48-volt electrical architecture, it utilizes dedicated OEM adapters to cleanly match original vehicle electronics and a replacement dash kit. This means no messy, improvised wiring harnesses, it’s a straightforward, prograde installation that can be done DIY.
Furthermore, it addresses the elements head-on. A golf cart accessory must survive everything from a sudden coastal downpour to dusty trail rides. The Kinect sports a rugged IP65-rated weather-resistant enclosure, meaning it confidently shrugs off heavy rain, airborne dust, and extreme seasonal heat.
For the leisure and social crowd, the Kinect acts as a rolling command center. Driven by Bluetooth® 5.0 and dual-band Wi-Fi, your phone seamlessly pairs the second you slide behind the wheel with smartphone integration. Playlists, essential contacts, and navigation apps transition effortlessly from your pocket straight to the dash for a hands-free experience.
On the audio side, it features an integrated radio and built-in multi-channel outputs designed to send clean, uncompressed audio signals straight to your sound bar or external amplifiers and speakers. To ensure the unit doesn't become obsolete by next season, MadJax® built in Over-TheAir (OTA) update capabilities. Utilizing 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi,
the system can pull data directly from a mobile hotspot to beam performance enhancements and new feature suites straight to the unit.
In this industry, we see a lot of "flavor of the month" accessories that promise the world but fail to survive a single humid summer or rough patch of pavement. The MadJax® Kinect™ feels different. By taking a page directly out of the modern automotive playbook and backing it with Nivel's distribution power and OEM-level fitment, they haven’t just built a new accessory, they’ve set a new baseline for what a premium PTV dashboard should be.
The MadJax® Kinect™ 12.3" HD Touchscreen is rolling out nationwide right now and is available exclusively through authorized MadJax® dealers. If you're looking to turn a legacy fleet cart into a modern luxury cruiser, your centerpiece has arrived.
Learn more at NivelParts.com
dealereducation
Have you ever wondered how some people are successful (in business and in life) and others aren't?
More than 30 years ago, Scott Alexander discovered why: some people are rhinoceroses and others are cows.
If you haven't already, you must read Rhinoceros Success, a fabulous book about life, business, relationships, and more, and how to approach each with drive and passion - charging like a rhinoceros!
It's a VERY easy read - even for someone like me who takes three weeks to get through "Go, Dog. Go!" In fact, you can probably sit down with the book and be done in a couple hours. And, afterwards, you'll get up, ready to take on the world! Like a charging rhinoceros!
There are many fantastic points that I've pulled from the book (this is at least my 4th time reading it). I'll touch on a few here:
THICK SKIN - becoming successful, in life, business, finances, or whatever, takes thick skin - two-inch thick skin, to be exact... like a rhinoceros! Seriously, at its thickest, strongest point, a rhino's skin is almost two inches thick! That'll keep you from taking things personally, won't it?
SUCCESS IN THE JUNGLE
CHARGE - if you want something, you have to go after it. Sitting around, chewing cud in the fields won't get you very far.
GIVE TO GET - from the basics of the Bible to the good feelings we get when we help someone in need, it is clear that we're better off giving than getting. And, we also see that those who give the most tend to be the most successful, happiest people on the planet.
YOU ARE WHO YOU HANG AROUND WITH - if you hang with the lazy cows, you'll become (or stay) a lazy cow. Find people who inspire you and reach out to them; start to hang out with fun, successful, driven people, and you'll start to become like them. Learn as much as you can from those who've already "done it" and from those you see "doing it" now. Grow, learn, succeed together.
There are a ton of other tidbits that I could share, but then I'd ruin it for all of you.
Go buy the book - you'll be glad you did! Get it on Amazon right now.
B ecome a Dealer
BY BOBBY DIAZ, SENIOR
batterybuzz
WWhen most people shop for a lithium battery, they compare the obvious things—voltage, amp-hour rating, warranty, maybe even the price tag.
But what if I told you the most important parts of a lithium battery are the parts you'll never see?
A lithium battery is much more than a group of cells inside a plastic box. It's a complete power system that has been engineered to provide years of reliable performance while protecting both your golf cart and your investment.
One of the most important components is the Battery Management System (BMS). Think of it as the battery's brain. It constantly monitors voltage, temperature, charging, and discharging. If something isn't right, the BMS is designed to react before damage can occur.
Another feature many people never consider is cell compression.
Lithium battery cells naturally expand and contract slightly during normal charging and discharging. That's why many premium battery manufacturers use engineered compression systems to keep the cells properly supported throughout years of vibration and thousands of charge cycles.
Some lower-cost batteries simply place the cells inside a molded plastic case with little or no engineered compression. From the outside, they may look nearly identical to a premium battery, but what's happening inside can be very different.
Think of it like building a house. You may never see the
WHAT YOU CAN'T SEE MATTERS MOST
foundation once the home is finished, but that foundation plays a huge role in how well the house holds up over time.
Quality manufacturers also build in additional layers of protection. Internal fuses help guard against excessive current. Temperature sensors monitor operating conditions. Waterproof sealing helps protect sensitive electronics from moisture, dust, and the environments golf carts encounter every day.
Perhaps the biggest difference isn't a single feature at all, it's the testing.
Before a quality battery ever reaches your golf cart, it should be tested for vibration, charging performance, temperature extremes, water resistance, and real-world use. That testing helps ensure the battery performs not just on day one, but years down the road.
The next time you're comparing lithium batteries, don't focus only on the specifications printed on the label. Ask what's inside. Ask how it's engineered. Ask how it's protected.
Because when it comes to lithium batteries, the features that matter most are often the ones you'll never see.
And that's exactly how it should be.
FOR MORE INFORMATION: Call 727-955-4955 or visit nivelparts.com
X COMP TIRES
BUILT ON QUALITY, DRIVEN BY INNOVATION
At X Comp Tires, we’ve built our reputation in the golf cart world on one simple promise: deliver a tire that looks great, rides quietly, and lasts. But the golf cart segment is only one part of a much larger story. Behind the X Comp name stands American Pacific Industries (API), a company whose tires roll across nearly every kind of terrain and vehicle on the road and off it. While many in the golf community know us first for our cart tires, the X Comp brand actually spans a full lineup that includes UTV, light truck, SUV, passenger car, high-performance, and commercial truck tires. That breadth isn’t an accident—it’s the result of years of constant innovation and a relentless commitment to designing new tires that meet real-world demands.
PROVEN IN THE TOUGHEST CONDITIONS
Nothing tests a tire like competition, and few environments are more punishing than off-road racing. Most recently, we released the Shreddy SX light truck tire, engineered specifically for the NORRA 1000—a grueling endurance race that begins in San Diego and finishes in Los Cabos, Mexico. The route is
unforgiving: hundreds of miles of rock, sand, silt, and highspeed desert that can shred an inferior tire in a single stage. For our first year competing on the Shreddy SX, Blake Wilkey and Adam Fitza put it through everything the course could throw at it and crossed the finish line with ZERO flats. Wilkey was a natural fit for the program. A San Diego–bred off-road racer who first went viral tearing through city streets in his custom “TT Bug,” he has gone on to build one of the most respected garage-built racing operations in the sport— winning the Unlimited class at the Mint 400, capturing a Class 11 Triple Crown Championship, and earning multiple wins at King of the Hammers, all while building his own “Shreddy” off-road lifestyle movement from the ground up. When a driver who pushes equipment that hard puts his name behind a tire, it means something.
That kind of result isn’t luck—it’s the payoff of design choices made long before the green flag drops. The same engineering philosophy that keeps a race truck moving through the desert is the philosophy that goes into every X Comp tire, including the ones that carry a golf cart smoothly
across a manicured fairway. Our presence in motorsports extends beyond the desert, too. In the world of drifting, our ambassadors include some of the most accomplished names in the sport. Chris Forsberg is a three-time Formula Drift champion who has competed in every season since the series began in 2004 and holds the records for the most head-tohead battle wins and the most podium finishes in Formula Drift history—a résumé that also made him the first-ever three-time FD World Champion. Corey Hosford, a longtime Formula Drift competitor known to fans as “The Boss,” has spent more than a decade campaigning V8-powered Nissans at the sport’s highest level and has helped shape the next generation of talent in Phoenix, Arizona. Forrest Wang adds another two decades of pedigree to the roster. A Hawaii-bred driver competing at the sport’s highest level since 2010, Wang has built one of drifting’s most recognizable identities through his aggressive style, his iconic Nissan S15 and S14 builds, and his Get Nuts Lab brand. With more than 60 Formula DRIFT Pro starts, multiple podium finishes, and honors including the Spirit of Drifting and Best Drifting Style awards, the driver fans know as the “Style King” has inspired enthusiasts worldwide and continues to shape modern drift culture through competition and content creation alike. Alongside Jeff Stein, these are drivers who demand grip, predictability, and durability at the absolute limit—and when a tire performs under those conditions, you can trust it to perform in everyday use.
QUALITY THAT STARTS IN HOUSE
At API, we pride ourselves on the quality of our products and the value we bring to our customers—and that commitment shows up in how we develop products. Rather than outsourcing the work that matters most, we keep it close. We maintain our own team of engineers, designers, compounders, and testing, so that every stage of a tire’s development happens under one roof and one standard. Our engineers shape the structure, our designers craft the look and tread
pattern, our compounders fine-tune the rubber formulations, and our relentless testing puts the finished product through its paces.
We don’t stop with our own validation, either. To make absolutely certain a tire meets the standards customers expect, we also rely on independent third-party testing. And we don’t simply test to the minimum: API routinely pushes its tires well beyond the required testing thresholds, because we’d rather discover a tire’s limits in a lab than have a customer discover them on the road. The numbers tell the story. Producing more than 16 million tires a year, we see warranty claims and tire failures on less than 0.0002% of them—a figure that reflects just how seriously we take consistency and quality.
BOOTS ON THE GROUND
Building a great tire is only half the equation. Building it the same way, every single time, across millions of units, is the other half. To protect that consistency, we work closely with a network of factories, and at each one we keep boots on the ground—our own people overseeing production to ensure quality control standards are met and delivery timelines are honored. This hands-on presence means problems get caught early, before they ever reach a distributor or consumers.
The diligence continues right up to the moment a tire comes off the line. Our team regularly pulls random samples from production and tests them to confirm that the entire batch passes and that what we ship genuinely lives up to the X Comp name. It’s a simple discipline, but it’s the kind of discipline that turns a good reputation into a lasting one.
A NEW CHAPTER IN GOLF
X Comp Tires officially entered the golf cart industry in 2023 with a single product—the X Comp G X/T—offered in just one size. It was a focused, deliberate debut, and it paid off. From the moment the tire was introduced at the PGA Show, it began earning recognition as one of the highest-quality options on the market. Customers noticed the curb appeal that made
golfcartcompany
carts stand out, and they noticed the whisper-quiet ride that made every trip down the cart path more enjoyable.
As word spread and X Comp’s popularity grew, so did the lineup. New patented sizes and tread options followed, expanding the range to fit a wider variety of carts and driving styles—today the lineup includes 24-part numbers and 19 sizes across the four tread designs, X Comp G X/T, G A/T, G H/T, and Gladiator A/P. Just as importantly, our relationships across the industry deepened. Distributors and dealers who took an early chance on X Comp became some of our strongest advocates, and their support has helped us grow faster and smarter. Through all of it, our approach has stayed the same: we listen to our customers, and we keep innovating to meet— and exceed—their expectations.
That same commitment to the golf community is reflected in our golf ambassador, Jon Rahm. One of the most accomplished players of his generation, Rahm is a two-time major champion—winning the 2021 U.S. Open, where he became the first Spaniard ever to claim that title, and the 2023 Masters. A former World No. 1, he first reached the top of the Official World Golf Ranking in 2020 after holding the top spot in the World Amateur Golf Ranking for a record 60 weeks. Aligning the X Comp name with an athlete of Rahm’s caliber—
and his relentless standards for performance—reflects exactly the level of quality we hold ourselves to, both on the course and off it.
STRONGER TOGETHER
Growth is easier with the right partners, and our recent partnership with Golf Carts Modified has been a tremendous boost to our distribution. Golf Carts Modified brings deep expertise in the golf world and a network of relationships that opens doors for the X Comp brand. But their value goes well beyond logistics. They provide outstanding customer service to both dealers and end users, and they bring a genuinely innovative mindset—constantly identifying new needs in the market and developing new products to meet them.
That spirit of partnership reflects exactly where X Comp Tires and Golf Carts Modified are headed. We’re a tire manufacturer that refuses to stand still, backed by a worldclass team that obsesses over quality and performance. Whether the road ahead leads across the Baja desert or down the eighteenth fairway, our mission is the same: keep innovating, keep listening, and keep delivering tires our customers can trust.
LITHIUM RHINO
MORE THAN JUST A BATTERY
Over the past three years, Lithium Rhino has emerged as one of the fastest-growing companies in the battery space. They are completely revolutionizing the market with an innovative platform of solutions, centered around a high-performing, all-inclusive LiFePO4 conversion kit. Driven by an unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction and a commitment to delivering unparalleled performance and support, they have quickly risen to become one of the most complimented brands in the golf cart world.
We had the unique opportunity to sit down with Founder and CEO Michael McDonald to discuss Lithium Rhino's explosive trajectory, their focus on dealer partnerships, and what exactly makes this brand shine so brightly.
THE CUSTOMER-CENTRIC APPROACH
Q: In just your first few years, you seem to be making quite a splash. Why do you think the golf cart industry and dealers nationwide are gravitating towards Lithium Rhino?
A: It’s been a fun and exciting ride to say the least, and I am incredibly humbled by all the positive feedback coming our way. At the end of the day, it’s all because of our incredible customers and partners. We are a strictly customer-centric company, putting support at the absolute center of everything we do.
Ultimately, we are simply helping golf cart owners get rid of traditional lead-acid batteries and the endless headaches they cause. That’s exactly how we approach the market. We focus on helping the customer choose the right battery, ensuring it is delivered and installed seamlessly, and supporting them so they get the most out of their purchase for years to come. I think people really appreciate that level of transparency and care.
Q: From the beginning, one of your core company goals has been to "make lithium more accessible to golf cart owners everywhere." Tell us how you started and why this mission is so
important to you.
A: To be honest, it kind of came out of nowhere! I have an engineering background and have been an entrepreneur for the last two decades, but I wasn't originally in the lithium space. Instead, I was just a frustrated golf cart owner dealing with lead-acid batteries for years—replacing them multiple times and essentially tossing money down the drain.
When I first started researching lithium options, I was blown away by the performance benefits. However, I was also incredibly confused by the massive variance in price, warranties, and kit inclusions across different brands. I became completely obsessed with solving that problem. I began developing my own version of a conversion kit—one that contained literally everything the everyday owner or dealer would need to upgrade to lithium themselves. I made it my personal mission to share this with the world, and Lithium Rhino was born.
FROM A SINGLE KIT TO AN INNOVATIVE PLATFORM
Q: How has Lithium Rhino evolved over the past three years, and what key factors have defined this rapid growth?
A: First off, we could not have achieved this level of success without the relentless commitment of my team to deliver an over-the-top customer experience, alongside the amazing partners who have joined us along the way. We simply wouldn't be here today without them.
Second is our dedication to rapid product innovation. We started with just two models of conversion kits; today, we offer eleven distinct models, providing a "Rhino solution" for virtually every situation, setup, and budget.
But I knew early on that if I provided a top-quality battery that lasted 10+ years, I wouldn't see that customer again for a long time. So, we started asking ourselves: What additional value can we provide to the golf cart experience?
As cart owners ourselves, we began developing an integrated platform of products. We started with premium soundbars, added subwoofers, and have now introduced a massive 10-inch entertainment screen, high-performance AC motor and controller kits, and a highly creative power hub that turns your cart battery into a mobile, off-grid power station. On top of that, we just launched five pristine models of marine batteries to expand our footprint even further.
EARNING THE TRUST OF ENTERPRISE BRANDS AND NATIONAL DISTRIBUTORS
Q: You have quickly become the primary choice for some massive, highly reputable entities—Google Data Centers, GE Aviation, US Fish & Wildlife, and Novant Health, to name a few. Why do you feel you have won that level of institutional trust?
A: We are incredibly proud and grateful for the opportunity to work with these elite organizations. If I had to point to a reason, it's that we have worked tirelessly to build a reputation for delivering an exceptional product and a dedication to going above and beyond whenever needed—before, during, and long after the sale. That unwavering reliability is where we really shine brightest against our competitors.
Q: Your distributors, dealers, and partners are expanding rapidly nationwide, including massive industry names like Bintelli, FSIP and PlumQuick Motors for example. What is driving that enterprise-level adoption?
A: Building these dealer and distributor relationships has honestly been one of my personal highlights of this entire journey. I appreciate our partners so much. Their industry knowledge and local experience is an absolute luxury.
Our philosophy is simple: if an issue arises with a product that falls outside of their scope, our team is always ready and immediately available to help solve it. We don't leave our partners hanging. This elite tier of dealer support is highly appreciated in the B2B space and has been the main driver of our nationwide partnership expansion.
AN INDUSTRY-LEADING WARRANTY
Q: When it comes to your warranty, it is easily one of the strongest in the business at 8 years total with a 6-year full replacement guarantee. How are you able to confidently offer this type of extensive coverage?
A: We are one of the few 100% USA owned and operated companies that actually holds an ownership interest in our partner manufacturing facility. This gives us a direct, uncompromised say in exactly how we manufacture our products—from the strict selection of premium raw materials to the exhaustive quality checks and rigorous testing points implemented throughout the entire assembly process. Because our manufacturing partner shares our exact passion for quality and exceeding expectations, we can confidently back our kits with a warranty that protects our dealers and end-users like no one else.
Q: What would be your parting message for a dealer, business owner, or consumer reading this who is not yet familiar with Lithium Rhino?
A: Come check us out! We would love the chance to collaborate and partner with like-minded businesses who share our passion for cutting-edge innovation and delivering a one-of-a-kind customer experience. And the best part is, we are just getting started.
Learn more at LithiumRhino.com
THE TOUCHSCREEN REVOLUTION
4 GOLF CARTS LEADING THE WAY IN 2026
Walk into any golf cart dealership these days and one of the first thing you'll notice on most new models is the big touchscreen sitting in the dash. Cart infotainment has come a long way in a short amount of time. What used to be a simple speedometer and battery gauge is now a multifunction display with Apple CarPlay, backup cameras, wireless charging, and full sound systems built right in.
In this guide, we're looking at four golf carts with some of the most impressive infotainment setups on the market right now. Whether you want the biggest screen, full Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, or the best audio setup, there's a cart on this list that fits the bill.
1. ATLAS CARTS GEN 2.5 (PRO, ONE, MAX)
STARTING PRICE: MSRP runs $12,649 for the PRO 2-passenger, $14,649 for the ONE 4-passenger, and $17,499 for the MAX 6-passenger.
SCREEN: 12.5" vertical HD touchscreen, IP65 weather-rated INTEGRATIONS: Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, backup camera, phone mirroring, hands-free calling, weather, state of charge, lighting controls
Atlas just released their Gen 2.5 lineup for 2026, and the 12.5"
vertical touchscreen is hard to miss. It's one of the biggest factory screens you'll find on any mainstream cart right now, with the screen mounted vertically and dominating the center of the dash. The IP65 rating means it can handle weather and washdowns without an issue.
WHY WE LIKE IT: The Atlas screen runs full Apple CarPlay and Android Auto natively, so your phone shows up on the dash exactly the way you'd expect from a modern car. You get
backup camera, lighting controls, real-time weather, state of charge, and hands-free calling all built in. The higher trims also pair the screen with Atlas WAVE, a 14-speaker audio system with dash-mounted tweeters and down-firing speakers. The 12.5" screen is standard across all three Gen 2.5 trims, the PRO, ONE, and MAX (2-passenger, 4-passenger, and 6-passenger), so you get the same tech regardless of which size cart you're after.
2. MADJAX ASCENT
STARTING PRICE: $13,495 MSRP.
SCREEN: 10" HD touchscreen with anti-glare coating INTEGRATIONS: Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, integrated wireless charging pad, RGB lighting controls for dash, canopy, and speakers
AUDIO: MadJax Decibel Soundbar (500W, 6 speakers, Bluetooth 5.0, Party Mode sync)
The Ascent is MadJax's newest cart, and the infotainment has everything you'll need at the touch of a finger. The 10" HD touchscreen sits in the center of the dash with anti-glare coating and handles audio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and full RGB lighting controls for the dash, canopy, and speakers. There's also a wireless charging pad built into the dash, and the steering wheel has integrated media controls so you can adjust audio without taking your hands off the wheel.
WHY WE LIKE IT: The party piece of the Ascent (literally) is
how the screen ties into the Decibel soundbar, MadJax's own 500W 6-speaker bar with Bluetooth 5.0 and a feature called Party Mode that can sync audio across multiple carts at once. If you ride with a group, that's a fun feature you won't find on most other carts. The whole setup feels like it was designed as one system from the ground up, not bolted together piecemeal from aftermarket parts.
golfcarttech
3. EVOLUTION D-MAX XT4
STARTING PRICE: $15,595 MSRP.
SCREEN: 10.1" multi-function touchscreen
INTEGRATIONS: Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, backup camera, gear indicator, speed display, lights, odometer/trip
The D-Max series has been creating buzz since it launched, and they definitely didn't skip on the infotainment. The 10.1" touchscreen handles Apple CarPlay and Android Auto natively, which makes connecting your phone seamless. The screen also displays gear position, speed, lights, and odometer information, and a backup camera is standard.
WHY WE LIKE IT: The 10.1" screen controls a 24-speaker surround sound system with speakers built into the seats, roof-mounted units, and dual soundbars, giving you plenty of volume if you want to crank it up. The dash also includes dual wireless charging pads that can power two phones at the same time, plus USB charging ports and a 12V outlet for any other devices.
4. BINTELLI NEXUS GEN2
STARTING PRICE: $16,995 MSRP.
SCREEN: 13" high-resolution touchscreen
INTEGRATIONS: Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, backup camera, push-button start with key fob, Bluetooth smart charger
AUDIO: HD Optimized Sound System with roof-mounted speakers, dual USB charging
The Nexus Gen2 just edges out Atlas for the biggest factory screen on this list, with a full 13" touchscreen in the center dash. CarPlay and Android Auto are both standard, along with a backup camera and push-button start with a key fob (a feature you don't see on most carts).
WHY WE LIKE IT: The 13" screen pairs with a 10-speaker HD sound system that's built right into the roof liner instead of mounted as a separate soundbar, which keeps the whole setup looking clean. Dual USB charging ports in the dash help keep your phone topped up while you're running CarPlay or Android Auto.
WRAPPING IT UP
Whether you want the biggest screen (Bintelli or Atlas), the most fun audio integration (MadJax Ascent), or the most banging speaker setup (Evolution XT4), there are so many great options to choose from, not just on this list but on the market in general
If you're shopping for a new cart and infotainment matters to you, it's worth sitting in each of these and trying the screens for yourself. Touch response, resolution, daylight visibility, and how the apps actually feel to use vary a lot between models, and what looks great in a photo doesn't always feel great in real life.
Looking for a new cart with one of these setups already installed? Head to CartFinder, the golf cart marketplace, to browse carts from dealers across the country and find one that fits your style.
askthemechanic
ASK THE MECHANIC
Q: When converting to an AC powered motor/controller, what's the differences in all of the kits offered?
A: Converting from DC to AC power provides many benefits which include longer runtime and increased performance and top speed. There are several major differences between technologies used. The most commonly used is AC Induction motor technology. These motors are incredibly durable, highly reliable, and excel at delivering massive top-end speed and sustained high performance. These motors don't have any physical magnets inside it. Instead, it relies entirely on electromagnetism and a physics principle called induction. Another type used is Permanent Magnet technology (similar to what modern electric car manufacturers use). A permanent magnet motor skips the step of needing to "induce" a magnetic field in the rotor, because the magnets are already built right into it. Permanent magnet motors are lighter, generate less heat, and provide maximum torque immediately from a complete stop.
Another great feature of an upgraded AC system is the ability to adjust your cart's speed, acceleration, and braking "on the fly" which is a major deciding factor for most buyers. A physical, dash-mounted programmer with actual knobs can adjust your top speed, acceleration, and regenerative braking instantly while driving. Whereas some kits rely almost entirely on its Bluetooth smartphone based app to which you can change your driving profiles directly through your phone screen.
Companies such as Navitas (Induction), Alltrax (Induction), Lithium Rhino (Induction) and Silverwolf (Permanent Magnet) all offer great kits to compare.
Q: How do I know if my BMS on my lithium battery is bad?
A: Diagnosing a bad Battery Management System (BMS) requires narrowing down whether a problem lies with the charger, the individual lithium cells, or the BMS board itself.
• Voltage on but no power: The battery measures normal
voltage at the terminals, but as soon as a load is applied (like turning on your cart or bike), the power drops instantly to zero.
• The battery won't charge at all: The charger is confirmed to be working, but the battery refuses to accept current.
• Premature charger shutting off: The charger turns green (fully charged) after just a few minutes, but the battery dies immediately under use.
• Bluetooth App Malfunction: If the battery has a Smart BMS, the app may display erratic temperature spikes or fail to communicate entirely.
I would recommend consulting the battery manufacturer to proceed with further tests before opening the battery and potentially voiding any remaining warranty or doing further damage. If you smell a burnt electrical smell though, that usually indicates that a component has shorted out.
GOLF CART FACT
The official Guinness World Record for the longest golf cart in the world belongs to a monster build created by Mike's Golf Carts in Perry, Georgia. It measures a massive 31 feet and 6.74 inches (9.62 meters) from bumper to bumper!
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 Smooth, efficient, high-torque power.
Get ultimate control over your Golf Car (LSV) with our Bluetooth App. Download on the Google Play Store or Apple App Store today!
Built tough to deliver consistent, powerful performance.
Stay a head with Navitas Vehicle Systems Ltd. ® industr y leading products and unmatched support. (844) 576-2499 www.navitasvs.com
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Peace of Mind
12-Year warranty and hassle-free ownership backed by an industry leader - Guaranteed.
Innovation Driven By The Industry’s Most Trusted Name.
Extended Range
Drive farther and charge faster with a battery built for maximum distance and all-day freedom.
No Maintenance
Zero up keep required while never worrying about a dead battery with automatic storage mode.
