Which suspension structure should a golf cart use?

2. Double Wishbone Suspension
Actual configuration: Front double A-arms + coil springs, used in a few high-end golf carts and sightseeing vehicles.
Advantages → Application Value
– Negative Camber Gain: The wheels maintain -1.5° of camber when cornering, reducing slip distance on slippery turf by approximately 15%, making it suitable for rainy day operations in scenic areas.
– Precise Adjustment: During turf maintenance season, tire pressures are frequently reduced to 80 kPa. Double wishbones can control toe angle changes within 0.2°, reducing tire nibbling—a set of 18×8.5-8 turf tires can be used for an additional 2-3 months.
– Large Shock Absorber Travel: 160 mm of shock absorber travel is placed away from the vehicle body, reducing impact acceleration to 1.5 g, ensuring passengers experience no head-bobbing.
Disadvantages → Application Impact
– Cost Jump: A pair of aluminum forgings for the upper wishbone + two sets of ball joints cost approximately 280 yuan, doubling the vehicle’s front axle bill of materials.
– High Maintenance: The ball joints and bushings require a press for installation and removal. Maintenance workers in scenic spots generally lack hydraulic tooling, forcing the vehicle to return to the factory.
– Space Encroachment: The upper wishbone pivot is 120 mm higher, raising the front hood and forcing the battery compartment to be moved 80 mm rearward. The vehicle’s front and rear axle loads change from 42/58 to 38/62, increasing rear axle load by 8% when fully loaded, and increasing rear tire indentation.
This model is suitable for high-end clubs and resorts, where driving quality and brand premium are paramount. The economics must be justified.