Thinking about getting an electric golf cart? A big question is always about the electric golf cart range; how far can you actually go on a single charge?
It’s a valid concern because no one wants to be stranded mid-course or halfway home. This guide helps you understand everything that affects range, so you can make an informed decision.
Table Of Contents:
Factors Affecting Electric Golf Cart Range
Several things play a role in how far an electric golf cart can travel on one charge. Some are obvious, while some are not so much.
Let’s break them down, because the range of an electric golf cart depends on several different things.
Battery Type: The Heart of the Matter
The battery is the most crucial part of your electric cart’s range. Two main contenders exist: lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries.
Lead-acid batteries have been around for ages and are cheaper, making them a popular choice for many. However, they also come with downsides.
Lead-acid batteries require maintenance; you have to top them off with water to ensure proper electrolyte levels. Nowadays, most golf cart batteries are lithium-ion which offers a maintenance-free experience.
Lithium batteries have a higher energy density, meaning you can travel further on a single charge. They also have a longer life span, which offsets some of the initial higher costs.
Terrain: Hills vs. Flats
Think about riding a bike: flat ground is easy, but a steep hill requires much more effort. This translates directly to battery life in electric golf carts.
Challenging terrain affects an electric golf cart’s battery as it requires more power to accelerate. So if you are thinking of riding your golf cart on an inclined road, rough patches, or even soft sand, chances are, it will take a toll on its battery consumption.
Weight and Passengers: More is Less
It takes energy to move mass. The heavier the cargo and passengers, the faster the electric cart depletes its battery. The number of passengers and their weight play a role.
While carrying heavy loads is something that golf carts can usually handle, it should be noted that the distance you can drive will be a tad shorter. So, if you are planning regular long trips with your golf cart, take note of how many people and how much cargo you will be taking with you.
Speed: Haste Makes Waste
Golf carts aren’t exactly built for speed and even street-legal ones aren’t going to outclass a go-kart. However, driving a golf cart at higher speeds will deplete batteries faster.
Driving slower saves battery power and gives you a slightly better electric golf cart range. Take this into consideration when driving long distances.
Weather Conditions: Heat vs. Cold
Extreme temperatures, especially cold, impact battery life and range. Keeping your battery shielded from excessive weather is essential.
While lithium-ion batteries can handle extreme temperatures better than lead-acid batteries. It is worth noting that extreme cold can affect battery discharge rate and charge capacity, and extreme heat will slow down the charging process, among many things.
Maximizing Your Electric Golf Cart Range
So, now that we have discussed the factors that may impact the distance your golf cart can go. Let’s talk about how you can optimize your electric cart usage.
Smart Charging Practices
Regular maintenance can maximize range and extend your cart battery life span. How long does a battery provide? It’s affected by various factors such as usage patterns and maintenance upkeep. Ensure proper charging practices to maintain battery health.
For golf carts typically driven regularly, keep an onboard charger handy (which should also extend its range while outdoors). This allows cart owners to plug in and charge whenever convenient, ensuring the cart battery never falls below 20%. The larger battery type and higher energy capacity mean nothing if not recharged before going below that minimum threshold.
Additionally, it is never recommended to fully discharge a lithium-ion battery as it will lower its charging capacity. On the flip side, it’s also generally a bad idea to leave the cart plugged in after it’s fully charged.
Proper charging keeps your golf cart battery healthy and maintains its capacity. Avoid fully discharging the battery every time; top-off charges between uses are best.
Maintenance Matters
Regular maintenance is important. Check the battery’s water levels (if applicable) and keep the tire pressure optimal to reduce friction.
Gas golf carts and electric golf carts have very different maintenance requirements: Gas carts are maintained like regular automobiles and require oil changes or periodic maintenance services (PMS). On the other hand, electric golf carts typically only require that you practice battery maintenance and upkeep.
Battery Size: Bigger Isn’t Always Better, But Sometimes It Is
Bigger batteries can provide more range, but they also add to the cost. The best battery size depends on your use case, terrain, and driving conditions.
Heavier carts typically require larger batteries. Battery size and amp hours help extend how far you can travel with your golf cart.
The best battery for your golf cart depends on your specific needs and budget. While a larger battery might seem appealing for a longer range, it’s important to consider the added cost and weight.
Conclusion
Understanding the electric golf cart range involves weighing several factors: battery type, terrain, weight, driving habits, and weather. Additionally, electric golf carts require proper battery maintenance and general upkeep to maximize their life span and performance.
