In Los Angeles, it’s not uncommon to see modified golf carts parked alongside Teslas. As a barometer for the U.S. golf cart market, California is experiencing a blend of market vitality and tariff pressure: premium customized models are in high demand, while some dealers worry about inventory levels and future restocks.
- Early Signs of Price Increases
- Previously, basic 2+2, 48V 100A models were typically sold for around US$8,000 in California. Now, most have gone up by about US$1,000.
- Some large dealerships stocked up right before the new tariffs were enforced, allowing them to maintain a modest inventory, but there’s no clear timeline on when they can restock or how prices might continue to rise.
- The Impact of Chinese Products
- According to industry data, over 200,000 golf cartswere exported from China to the U.S. in 2024, quickly capturing the market with high cost-effectiveness.
- The U.S. has imposed anti-dumping and countervailing (dual) tariffs on Chinese products, coupled with uncertainties around tariff backdating, causing many Chinese OEMs to suspend or halt direct supply to the U.S.
- Industry insiders note that China’s price advantage and large production capacityhave caused concern among U.S. dealers. Now, with offshore production not yet in full swing, Chinese supply disruptions could lead to a prolonged shortage.
- Potential Consequences of Supply Disruptions
While California’s strong consumer base and dealer networks allow for some short-term inventory adjustments, a deeper supply gap may push end-user prices higher and extend delivery times.
- Activity at the Port of Long Beach has notably slowed. Some distributors have turned to Europe or other Asian countries for replacement sources, but their production volume can’t match China’s.
- Importers can’t quickly re-establish stable supply lines, and signs of a demand-supply imbalanceare already emerging.
Next Stop:
We’ll head to Florida to investigate local retail and wholesale markets for further evidence of shifts in golf cart inventory.
