Yamaha Motor Europe N.V., Branch UK has introduced Lithium-Ion battery technology into its golf car range with the introduction of the new Drive² AC Li.
The new Lithium-Ion battery is a high-performance, maintenance-free, cobalt-free unit from the renowned manufacturer, Roypow, and offers a number of key benefits.
Linked to a powerful 3.3 kW motor, it provides fast, smooth acceleration and, with greater torque than a conventional lead acid battery, it’s 20% faster climbing a 15-degree incline.
Of appeal to golf course operators, the batteries are maintenance-free resulting in considerable savings in time and labour costs. They also come with a five-year warranty and a useful working life of up to eight years. They charge almost twice as quickly as their lead-acid equivalents and provide in excess of three rounds before they require recharging.
A sophisticated, comfortable and powerful golf car, the new Drive² AC Li has fully independent front suspension, optimised to compliment the lightweight battery pack, to provide a pleasant, smooth ride. The rear suspension has been redesigned and offers increased comfort for the golfer while allowing golf course owners to deliver a better experience for their members and guests.
The new Drive² AC Li can utilise YamaTrack, Yamaha’s management system, that improves the operational efficiency of any golf car fleet. A 25 cm (10”) screen, mounted on the dashboard, allows golfers to enjoy 3-D terrain graphics and customisable Pro tips. Geo-zones can be set up to protect environmentally sensitive areas and players can pre-order food and beverages while out on the course.
Commenting on the arrival of the new Drive² AC Li, Dan Palmer, Manager, Power Products (Yamaha Motor) said, “The use of Lithium-Ion technology offers several performance advantages such as more rounds per charge, longer life and faster charging. All of which are major and important factors for golf course operators.
“When coupled with our YamaTrack system, course operators can manage their fleets, removing the hassle and optimising their business operations and profitability. As you would expect, we will continue to stay close to our customers in the golf fleet sector to ensure that we identify and provide solutions that best meet their needs.”
