How Do I Make My Golf Cart Go Faster?

One of the most common questions golf cart owners ask is:
“How can I make my golf cart go faster?”

Whether a golf cart is used for communities, resorts, campuses, or commercial operations, speed can improve efficiency and driving experience. However, increasing speed must be done safely, legally, and correctly.

This article explains the most common ways to increase golf cart speed—and what you should consider before making any changes.

Understanding Golf Cart Speed Limits

Most standard electric golf carts are factory-set to operate between 20–25 km/h (12–15 mph). These limits are designed to balance:

• Safety

• Battery life

• Motor durability

• Regulatory compliance

Any speed increase should respect local laws and operating environments.

Common Ways to Increase Golf Cart Speed

1. Upgrade the Battery System

For electric golf carts, the battery plays a major role in performance.

Options include:

• Higher-capacity batteries for sustained output

• Lithium battery systems for lighter weight and better power efficiency

A stronger, more stable power source can improve acceleration and maintain higher speeds more consistently.

2. Use a Higher-Voltage System

Golf carts with higher voltage systems generally deliver better performance.

For example:

• 48V systems outperform older 36V systems

• 72V electric golf carts offer higher speed potential and stronger torque while remaining efficient

This upgrade must be matched with compatible motors and controllers.

3. Upgrade the Motor or Controller

The motor and controller determine how much power reaches the wheels.

• A high-speed motor allows for higher top speeds

• A performance controller manages power output more efficiently

These upgrades should always be professionally matched to the battery system.

4. Change Tire Size (With Caution)

Larger-diameter tires can slightly increase top speed by covering more ground per rotation.

However:

• Oversized tires may reduce torque

• Incorrect tire selection can affect braking and stability

Tire upgrades should be balanced with suspension and braking considerations.

5. Reduce Vehicle Weight

Removing unnecessary accessories or choosing lightweight components can improve speed and acceleration.

That said, safety features should never be removed to gain speed.

Important Safety and Legal Considerations

Before increasing speed, always consider:

• Local speed regulations for golf carts or low-speed vehicles

• Braking system capability

• Steering stability

• Passenger safety

A faster golf cart without proper brakes and suspension can become dangerous.

Why Modifying an Existing Golf Cart Can Be Costly

While aftermarket upgrades are possible, they often come with:

• Compatibility issues

• Increased maintenance costs

• Reduced battery lifespan

• No warranty coverage

In many cases, the total cost of modifications can exceed expectations.

A Smarter Alternative: Choose the Right Speed From the Factory

For buyers who need higher speed from the beginning, selecting a golf cart designed and configured for higher performance at the factory level is often the best solution.

Factory-configured higher-speed golf carts offer:

• Matched battery, motor, and controller systems

• Proper braking and suspension setup

• Full testing and quality control

• Warranty and technical support

This approach delivers speed without compromising safety or reliability.

Final Thoughts

Increasing golf cart speed is possible, but it should always be done responsibly. The safest and most cost-effective solution is not aggressive modification—but choosing the right specifications from the start.

A well-engineered golf cart with the correct voltage system, power configuration, and safety features provides better performance, longer service life, and lower overall cost.

At Lexsong, we help customers select and configure electric golf carts with performance levels tailored to their real-world needs—ensuring speed, safety, and reliability are all built in from day one.