PowerBug Downhill Control DHC electric golf trolley

What is Downhill Control (DHC) on electric golf trolleys?

You may have noticed that in our trolley range we offer two versions of the NX: the standard NX and the NX DHC. A common question we receive is: “What does DHC mean, and do I actually need it?”

Let’s break it down.

What Is DHC – and Do You Need It on Your Golf Trolley?

You may have noticed that in our trolley range we offer two versions of the NX: the standard NX and the NX DHC. A common question we receive is: “What does DHC mean, and do I actually need it?”

Let’s break it down.


What Does DHC Mean?

DHC stands for “Downhill Control.”
It’s a fast-growing feature in the electric golf trolley market, and for good reason. Our NX DHC model is currently our best-selling trolley—largely because we’re able to offer it at an extremely competitive price. Comparable DHC models from brands such as Motocaddy or PowaKaddy can cost around £200 more than the PowerBug NX DHC.


Who Is DHC Designed For?

DHC is engineered for golfers who play on hilly or undulating courses—a very common need across many regions of the UK.

A standard electric trolley will still freewheel when descending a slope because the motor provides little to no resistance. This is perfectly suitable for golfers who play mostly on flatter courses.

However, on steeper ground, freewheeling can cause the trolley to run away or pick up unwanted speed. That’s where DHC becomes valuable.


How Does Downhill Control Work?

A trolley with DHC provides rolling resistance, automatically regulating its speed based on the setting you select.

For example:

  • If your DHC trolley is set to speed 1, it will not exceed this speed even when travelling down a steep hill.

  • The motor applies controlled resistance to maintain a safe, steady pace.

By comparison, a non-DHC trolley set to speed 1 may gain momentum and travel faster than intended when going downhill, because there is no speed-regulating resistance.

This makes DHC particularly beneficial for:

  • Steep courses

  • Wet or slippery terrains

  • Golfers who want extra control and safety


Electronic Parking Brake – Exclusive to the NX DHC

Another major advantage of our NX DHC is the electronic parking brake—a feature not all brands include with their DHC models.

With the PowerBug NX DHC, turning the speed dial to “P” for Park electronically locks the wheels, preventing the trolley from moving even on a slope.

This is extremely helpful when:

  • You stop on an incline to take a shot

  • You’re on uneven ground

  • You want your trolley to stay exactly where you leave it

Even relatively flat courses often have raised tees, mounds, or sloped approaches—making the parking brake a genuinely practical feature for all golfers.


So, Do You Need DHC?

The simple answer: It depends on where you play.

  • If you mostly play on flatter courses:
    The standard NX is a perfect, cost-effective choice.

  • If you frequently play on hilly or uneven terrain:
    The NX DHC is highly recommended and is a favourite among golfers who value control, stability, and convenience on slopes.

If you value added safety, controlled speed, and the convenience of an electronic parking brake, the NX DHC is well worth the small increase in price.


Explore the PowerBug NX Range

 

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