After 15,000 km of use on a battery-powered electric tricycle, Vesconite suspension and steering bushings show no signs of wear, and have run entirely without lubrication. That’s the report from Barend Botha (Snr), co-founder of South African company Tadhole, the developer behind a new line of three- and four-wheel electric vehicles designed for use on golf courses and beyond.
The pioneering lightweight vehicles—developed initially as golf cart alternatives—have also attracted growing attention from recreational users, security personnel, retirees in gated communities, and eco-tourism operators.
At the heart of the design is a commitment to simplicity and minimal maintenance. That’s why Vesconite self-lubricating, wear-resistant bushings were selected for critical suspension and steering pivot points.
“The design philosophy was to develop a low-cost, lightweight, low-maintenance cart with extreme comfort, ease of handling and a high fun factor,” says Botha. “Vesconite fits perfectly into that philosophy. Its mechanical strength, self-lubricating properties, and long wear life without maintenance make it the ideal choice.”
The flagship three-wheeler and the newer tandem four-wheeler both use modular construction,making them easy to adapt for different applications—from a single-seater for solo golfers to a two-seater for game viewing. Bicycle parts and e-bike motors further support the project’s goals of low cost and low complexity.
Vesconite bushings help reduce the need for ongoing servicing, especially in hard-to-reach suspension areas that traditionally require grease or replacement.
“Using Vesconite supports our concept and enhances the driving experience. Our prototype was close to the current design, with only minor changes over time, which shows we got the engineering approach right from the start,” notes Botha.
Ten pre-production units were initially built and tested extensively, followed by a number of pre-ordered carts. Tadhole reports increasing interest and orders for all models. While still assembling to order, the company is ramping up capacity to reduce lead times as demand grows, with agents in Gauteng and the Western Cape and soon in Kwazulu-Natal.
Though Tadhole is based in South Africa, the company has always had its sights set on the US market, home to over 15,000 golf courses and a variety of other recreational activities. Early exports include two vehicles shipped to Texas, where a US-based partner is showcasing the product and seeking investment to establish a manufacturing facility.
“The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive,” says Botha. “People love the comfort, the simplicity, and the fun. And because you can drive directly to your ball, it enhances the game itself,” he notes of the vehicles’ use on golf courses.
The concept’s origin dates back to 2018, when Botha and his son—then a student—designed a reverse trike push cart using bicycle parts. The unique layout was chosen to improve the pushers’ ability to run at speed, but also proved ideal for stability and control, laying the groundwork for the single-seater electric cart. A South African and US patent have since been granted for the design.
The quiet, nimble vehicles also appeal to older users and those with mobility challenges. Tadhole has even developed a swappable front nose to improve access for mobility impaired users, increasing inclusivity in recreational use on trails, in game reserves, and even on beaches. Events hosted at retirement homes, meanwhile, have demonstrated that individuals can easily access and safely operate the vehicles well into their 90s.
For added versatility, the four-wheeler version includes a removable rear seat that can be swapped for a small cargo bin. Optional accessories, like a picnic basket, and a game-viewer type canopy make it a strong candidate for the eco-tourism sector.
“We believe this product can bring joy and practical benefits across age groups and industries,” concludes Botha. “With Vesconite bushings reducing maintenance and increasing durability, we are confident in its long-term performance and appeal.”
At only 45 kg for the single-seater and 75 kg for the four-wheeler, the vehicles are highly manoeuvrable and easy to transport. Their use of standard e-bike parts keeps running costs low— while delivering the reliability and fun factor of far more complex and expensive vehicles.
Above: The vehicles are being used by recreational users, security personnel, eco-tourism operators, older users, and those with mobility challenges in addition to golfers.
