The World's Fastest Golf Cart Reaches Blistering Speeds
Engineering modifications transformed a standard golf cart into a record-breaking high-speed vehicle.
1Redefining Golf Cart Performance
Golf carts are typically designed for leisurely transport at speeds around 19 mph, constrained by federal safety standards. However, the Bandit, a modified 2008 Club Car DS, shattered these expectations. Officially certified by Guinness World Records, this vehicle achieved a top speed of 118.76 mph, far exceeding any conventional utility cart capabilities.
2Engineering the Bandit Beast
Plum Quick Motors, a family-owned business based in Lancaster, South Carolina, engineered this high-performance machine. The cart utilizes a specialized Black Ops motor powered by twelve 12-volt AGM lithium-ion batteries, delivering 144 volts of power. To maintain stability at extreme speeds, the team added eighty pounds of lead to the front bumper.
3Record-Breaking Dragway Performance
Driven by Robby Steen, the Bandit set its official record at the Darlington Dragway in Hartsville, South Carolina, on October 31, 2014. While the cart reached 118.76 mph, the driver estimated that only 80 percent of the available battery power was utilized during the run, suggesting potential for even higher speeds under different conditions.
4Evolution of Speed Records
The Steen family is deeply experienced in high-performance modifications, having held the previous world record of 103.65 mph just one year prior to the 2014 achievement. Their long-standing expertise in electric golf cart torque and speed upgrades spans nearly five decades, reflecting a consistent pursuit of pushing mechanical boundaries within the industry.
5Safety and Technical Constraints
To ensure safety during the high-speed run, the team incorporated all-wheel disc brakes and safety belts. Despite these modifications, the cart retained its stock Graziano rear with a custom gear set. Interestingly, the vehicle even carried a set of golf clubs in the back, maintaining its original aesthetic while performing at drag-racing levels.
6Regulatory Framework for Carts
Conventional golf carts are classified as Low-Speed Vehicles under federal safety standards set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. These regulations generally limit maximum speeds to 20 mph or less to avoid classification as standard motor vehicles. The Bandit operates well outside these typical parameters, requiring specialized drag strip environments for testing.
7Future Ambitions and Iterations
Following the 2014 success, the team attempted to reach 150 mph in 2020 using a completely different, purpose-built cart. This newer iteration included advanced safety features like a roll cage, an explosion shield, and racing harnesses. Although that specific attempt fell short of the goal, the team remains focused on future high-speed engineering projects.
8Broader Engineering Aspirations
The Steen family's passion for speed extends beyond golf carts, with current goals including building the world's fastest Power Wheels car, power chair, and lawnmower. These projects demonstrate a commitment to extreme engineering, applying high-performance electric motor technology to everyday consumer items, consistently challenging the limits of what these small vehicles can achieve.
Original article: SlashGear — The World's Fastest Golf Cart Reaches Blistering Speeds