Prepping for trivia night this week or just curious about how many batteries are in an electric golf cart? Maybe you are considering buying a new electric golf cart. In any case, we have you covered. Understanding this will help you decide on the type of golf cart that best fits your needs. In today’s blog, we will discuss battery quantities and related topics. From average usage norms to battery degradation, this article will give you the knowledge you are looking for when choosing the right golf cart. For quick reference, electric golf carts have either one large battery, or usually six smaller batteries(depending on voltage).
What Is an Electric Golf Cart and How Does It Work?
Electric golf carts have been shuttling golfers around the course since the 1950s. Unlike gas-powered golf carts, electric golf carts are powered by a rechargeable battery system. For this reason, they have gained popularity as an eco-friendly choice. In their basic assembly, these carts usually carry two passengers and can reach speeds of around 15 miles per hour. The electric motor drives the wheels, just like a car, speed is controlled by foot pedals for both acceleration and braking. Some are controlled by hand levers, but this is an exception to the rule. Most electric golf carts can last a few rounds on a single charge.
Different Battery Types Used in Electric Golf Carts
When you look at all the options available for an electric golf cart, you can easily become overwhelmed by the many different battery options. The most common are lead-acid batteries and lithium-ion. Lead-acid batteries have been around for over a century. These have been the go-to options for golf carts until recently. Lithium-ion batteries offer a longer lifespan, lower maintenance, and better performance as the battery charge depletes. Lithium-ion batteries also weigh less, which affects the range and maneuverability of your golf cart. Some manufacturers offer gel-based, or AGM(absorbed glass mat) batteries. These require less maintenance than traditional lead-acid, but more than lithium-ion. Knowing these different types of batteries can help you when purchasing an electric golf cart.
How Many Batteries Are Needed to Power an Electric Golf Cart?
The number of batteries to power an electric golf cart varies based on a few different factors. Typically, between four to six 6-volt batteries or six to eight 8-volt batteries are used. It comes down to the weight and expectations for the golf cart usage. How far does it need to travel daily? How many passengers will it carry at most times? On-road or off-road? All these small details play a factor in the right number or type of batteries that should be used. If you have the opportunity to consult a professional when purchasing a golf cart, take advantage of it. Any price increase is worth the peace of mind to know your golf cart can handle exactly what you need it to.
The advantages of using a battery-powered golf cart over a petrol-driven one
A quiet and eco-friendly golf course is now possible with the increasing popularity of battery-powered golf carts. Using these carts over petrol-driven ones have many advantages, one of which is their low noise output. Gone are the days of hearing the buzz of a petrol engine. With battery-powered golf carts, you can enjoy a peaceful round of golf or a conversation with your friends without any noise disturbance. Additionally, being battery-powered, they are more environment-friendly and cheaper to operate. These carts reduce the carbon footprint of the golf course and are easy on your wallet since they only need occasional charging rather than frequent refueling with petrol. Switching to battery-powered golf carts is a smart move, bringing a quieter, greener, and cost-effective future to the game of golf.
Considerations When Purchasing Batteries for an Electric Golf Cart
What do weight, size, and maintenance requirements all have in common? You should know what they are on any batteries you need to replace. These are essential to make sure you are not going to cause harm to any larger components of your golf cart. The size of batteries can impact how long they hold a charge while the weight impacts the golf carts’ overall performance. While some batteries might need more maintenance than others, they might be the best fit for your golf cart and personal use cases. If you can select the right batteries for your cart, you can ensure a smooth, hassle-free owner experience.
Tips for Maintaining Your Electric Golf Cart’s Batteries
Maintenance is key. Sometimes that means rolling up the sleeves and doing the work and sometimes that means getting into good habits to prevent premature degradation. Follow these tips to keep your batteries in tip-top shape.
If you won’t be using the golf cart for a long time, charge the batteries to full before storing them.
Recharge batteries after each use, even if they aren’t completely drained.
Check the water levels in lead-acid batteries often and top off with distilled water as needed.
Keep the batteries clean. Wash away dirt and debris with soap and water. Use a wire brush gently where needed.
Conclusion
If you are looking for eco-friendly, reliable transportation, electric golf carts are a great choice regardless of which batteries are inside. To get the full picture when trying to make an informed decision, it helps to know the differences. Also, if “How many batteries are in an electric golf cart?”, comes up in trivia, you will nail it. Maintenance is important for any vehicle and while there is less to do for electric golf carts, practicing the habits we discussed will help you avoid trouble.
Electric golf carts are a great choice for those who want an eco-friendly, reliable transportation option. While electric golf carts used to be large and bulky, modern versions are efficient, lightweight and can go very distances on a single charge. With the right batteries, you will get the most out of your golf cart and you’ll have peace of mind knowing it will last longer. By selecting the correct type of battery, matching it to your electric golf cart’s needs and specifications, keeping up with regular maintenance, you’re sure to enjoy your electric golf cart for many years. For those looking for an even greener solution or wanting more torque or speed from their electric golf cart, there is also the possibility of replacing gasoline engines with electric motors. Whatever type of battery-powered vehicle you decide on, it’s important to research your options thoroughly before making a decision so that you make an informed choice that fits your unique needs.
Take the time to do your research on your own golf cart and replace the batteries with exact matches whenever possible. When making an upgrade or buying a golf cart for the first time, consult a pro! Happy carting!
