Club Car's CRU Microcar Receives Significant Lithium-Ion Upgrade
Club Car has revolutionized its distinctive CRU electric microcar, a vehicle celebrated for its innovative ‘living room on wheels’ concept, by integrating a cutting-edge lithium-ion battery. This substantial technological enhancement marks a pivotal moment, ushering the street-legal low-speed vehicle (LSV) into the contemporary electric vehicle landscape. The upgrade not only significantly boosts the CRU's performance capabilities but also addresses previous limitations, making it a more compelling option for a wider array of users. The original design, a collaboration with BMW Designworks, already set the CRU apart with its luxurious and adaptable interior, designed for social interaction. Now, with enhanced power and efficiency, it promises an even more refined and practical experience.
The CRU, initially unveiled with considerable fanfare, captivated attention due to its unconventional interior configuration. It boasts wrap-around bench seating, a central table, and swiveling front seats that accommodate up to six passengers, fostering a communal atmosphere. While its design was ahead of its time, its reliance on traditional lead-acid batteries presented a bottleneck in terms of performance and user convenience. The recent introduction of the lithium-ion battery pack directly tackles this issue, providing a dramatic improvement in range and charging speed. Although specific metrics for these enhancements have not been disclosed by Club Car, the company affirms that the new configuration will deliver a substantial leap forward compared to its predecessor.
Brant Mitchell, Senior Director of Product Management at Club Car, emphasized the transformative impact of the new CRU Lithium, highlighting its blend of existing appeal with superior performance. He noted that the lithium-ion solution offers faster charging, extended travel distances, and reduced maintenance, aligning perfectly with modern consumer expectations for electric vehicles. Beyond the improved range and quicker charging cycles, the lighter weight of the lithium-ion battery also contributes to enhanced handling and overall ride quality. This is particularly beneficial for a vehicle primarily designed for leisurely travel within neighborhoods, campuses, resorts, and private communities, where comfort and maneuverability are paramount.
Despite these significant power train upgrades, the CRU maintains its maximum speed of 25 mph, ensuring full compliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) regulations for street-legal low-speed vehicles. The vehicle continues to feature essential safety components, including comprehensive lighting, turn signals, seat belts, and a backup camera, enabling its legal operation on public roads with speed limits up to 35 mph. While the lithium-ion battery option represents an additional investment of approximately US $2,500 over the base price of the lead-acid model (which starts at $25,000), and a larger 16 kWh battery can push the cost above $31,000, Club Car stresses the long-term economic advantages, such as lower operational costs and minimal service requirements. This strategic enhancement aims to appeal to discerning buyers who prioritize advanced technology and a premium experience in their electric vehicles.
The evolution of the CRU, from its conceptual debut to its current iteration with a high-performance lithium-ion option, underscores Club Car's commitment to pushing the boundaries of low-speed electric vehicle design. This development challenges the conventional perception that such vehicles must be utilitarian or simplistic. Instead, it positions the CRU as a sophisticated middle-ground between a basic golf cart and a full-sized electric car, offering a luxurious and technologically advanced personal transportation solution. The success of this updated model will ultimately depend on whether a substantial market exists for a niche electric vehicle with such a premium price point and distinctive features.