Going Greener for Golf

Not a single aspect of our lives remains untouched by the environmental concerns surrounding global warming. Even golf, a comparatively green pastime in every sense of the word, is playing its part to help the planet. SolarDrive, a Denmark-based firm that specializes in solar technology for mobile solutions, was at the PGA Golf Show in Orlando in January exhibiting with Club Car in a significant and ground breaking tie-up. Club Car will be offering SolarDrive roofs to all of its existing and potential clients in North America. Many observers commented it was the one genuine new piece of technology at the Show.

SolarDrive designs and engineers vehicle canopies made with solar cells capable of capturing and transferring the sun’s energy to electric-powered vehicles, including golf cars. The solar canopies transfer from 180 to 360 watts of energy to a vehicle’s battery system, resulting in considerable additional range between charges in typical applications.

Ernie Els is already a keen supporter; SolarDrive-equipped golf cars were used at the Ernie Els Invitational and the cars are used at the Els Club Dubai. “I just don’t see any downside,” said Els. “With SolarDrive technology such as this, everyone benefits, including the environment.”
 
“SolarDrive is well-respected for its superior design and technological capabilities,” said Gary Michel, Club Car President and CEO. “As a leading proponent of environmental sustainability, we are pleased to partner with SolarDrive to encourage the use of solar energy in ways that promote sustainability and reduce our customers’ carbon footprint.”

“We are particularly proud to enter this marketing alliance with Club Car, which we consider an important recognition of the quality of our solutions,” said Peter Randow, SolarDrive founding partner.

The crystalline solar panel modules, which are capable of producing 90 watts of electrical energy each, can be configured for two- to eight-passenger vehicles. Two modules are normally used to fit a two-seat vehicle, with three and four panels installations designed for larger vehicles. The cost of a SolarDrive canopy for a standard size, two-seat golf car ranges from $2,700 to $3,000 depending on vehicle model. 

About Club Car
Club Car provides fleet, turf, hospitality and financing solutions for golf, agricultural, recreational and industrial markets: www.clubcar.com

About SolarDrive
SolarDrive develops highly efficient solar products for electric vehicles and off-grid solar powered products: www.solardrive.com

For more details contact:
Bill Bryant, Bryant Marketing Communications
(678) 366-3232, bbryant@bryantmarcomm.com

Mike Read, Club Car
(800) 227-0739 (Ext. 2615), mike_read@clubcar.com

Peter Randow, SolarDrive
+45 88389362, pr@solardrive.com