The Japanese conglomerate Yamaha Group started out as an organ and reed manufacturer in 1887. Along with musical instruments, it currently manufactures items as varied as electronics, sports equipment and home appliances.

After World War II, Yamaha began producing motorcycles. Its first engine for the initial YA-1 model was a 125cc single cylinder two-stroke. Since 1955, the company has prided itself on developing gas engines with superior power and performance.

Over the next few decades, the company expanded into other market niches, including outboard motors and car engines. The Toyota 1LR-GUE V10 engine was named by Jalopnik as one of the best engines of the last 20 years. This drive for innovation is also reflected in the company’s powerful, comfortable and performance-centered golf carts.

A High-Powered History

In 1975, Yamaha introduced its first golf cart, the YG-292. Since then, there have been innovations in power, performance, comfort and appearance.

The G-1 Model (1979) was the first two-stroke car to have a standard oil injection system as well as an electronic ignition. Just six years later, the G-2 model introduced a four-stroke overhead valve engine. That same year, the stylish G-3 “Sun Classic” golf cart was introduced to the market.

In 1989, the G-5 represented the next generation of the “Sun Classic,” and the G-8 was the first golf car to utilize a semi-independent rear suspension.

1994 saw the introduction of the G-14 “Ultima” with its larger 300cc engine. Just two years after that, the electric 48-volt G-19 was born. It was followed in 2001 by the G-21 with a still larger engine.

Yamaha engines have continued to pack more power. In 2003, the G-22 was the first electric model to incorporate the Advanced Genius System, which allows customization to fit multiples terrains and options. Its gas-powered equivalent sported a 357cc motor.

The Drive

In 2006, Yamaha introduced “The Drive,” a golf cart that drives more like a street model. It is the first golf cart with electronic fuel injection. It has enhanced acceleration and reduced emissions, delivering superior performance at high altitudes.

2016 brought yet another first. Drive² boasts an independent rear suspension. The performance of Yamaha electronic carts is also enhanced by a new electric system, the PowerTech AC, that affords increased battery strength, smooth uphill ride and rapid acceleration.

Pick Your Engine

There are four engine types to choose from when shopping for your perfect golf cart. The first is the Gas EFI, a 357cc low-emission, single-cylinder model. It has electronic fuel injection with a maximum output of 8.5/11.4 horsepower and 25.5/2500 of torque. Opt for QuieTech EFI to enjoy a 261-mile range, quiet running and new body styling.

The Carb engine is a good fit for the thrifty customer who isn’t committed to low noise. At 357cc and 11.4 horsepower, it is Yamaha’s most fuel-efficient carburetor engine.

The PowerTech AC enables muscular hill climbing and a smooth ride. At 48 volts, its output is 5.0kw (6.7hp) for up to 60 minutes before recharging. According to Golftrips.com, the Yamaha Drive AC is fun to drive and can easily scale hills of just about any size.

The 48-volt DC engine runs for up to 30 minutes at 2.6kw or 3.5hp.

Yamatrack

For golf course operators, Yamaha has developed a user-friendly GPS system that allows the creation of go and no-go zones, speed regulation, monitoring of battery life and other systems that allow for improved fleet rotation.

Through an app, golfers can easily navigate around your course and contact assistance when needed. The system will produce reports to help you manage your fleet, so it’s super helpful for operations managers of golf courses.

Performance Upgrades

For the customization enthusiast, DIY Golf Cart offers a variety of upgrade kits and performance kits for all Yamaha models. There are also electric system upgrades that will help your vehicle reach maximum performance.

Body and trim enhancements include bumper kits, radio consoles, dash kits, covers and rocker panels.

Tops in the Industry

Despite its revered place in the industry, Yamaha is determined to push innovation further. It spent a decade adding technological innovation to its Drive series to produce the next generation of carts, Drive².

In February 2017, Yamaha opened the Yamaha Motor Center, a hub devoted to innovation in product design. Yamaha’s aim is to “drive disruptive change” in the industry. There’s no doubt these advances will find their way to the golf course.

The Yamaha company philosophy stresses a customer experience of “joy, beauty, confidence and discovery” to go along with “excellence, authenticity and innovation.” You will find it all when you experience and customize one of their golf carts for yourself.