How Do 36V vs 48V Golf Cart batteries Differ?

You will need to choose between a 36-volt and a 48-volt model when purchasing a golf cart. The difference between these two electrical systems can have a significant impact on your cart’s performance, power, and overall usability. The purpose of this article is to inform you about the differences between 36V and 48V golf carts.

Volts of the battery

A battery’s voltage refers to its capacity to supply current. A battery with a higher voltage would provide more power. It’s pretty straightforward. 36V golf cart batteries allow you to draw less current, typically around 15 amps, whereas 48V golf cart batteries allow you to draw more current, between 10 and 40 amps. A 48V golf cart battery allows you to go faster. To achieve the same speed with a 36V golf carts battery, you would have to use more muscle power. This may put more strain on your battery cells.

Hours of power

The ampere is a measure of current. AMP-hours refer to the battery’s capacity to supply a specific current for an hour. For the sake of understanding, let’s use an amp-hour as a unit. If you charge your golf cart at this rate, you will receive a 1-amp current for one hour. Increasing the speed will reduce the battery’s ability to sustain it.

Performance and power

Power and performance of a golf cart are directly related to its voltage. In general, 48V systems offer more power and torque than 36V systems. Thus, 48V golf carts can carry more weight, climb steeper inclines, and provide a more robust driving experience, especially on hilly terrains or demanding courses. As a result, 36V golf carts may struggle with these tasks, particularly when carrying multiple passengers or heavy loads.

Life and range of batteries

A key factor to consider is the battery life and range of each type of golf cart. 48V golf carts typically have a longer battery life and range than 36V golf carts. Consequently, you will get more mileage out of each charge when you own a 48V cart, allowing you to use it longer before having to recharge it. If you upgrade the battery to a lithium-ion one, regardless of whether you have a 36V or 48V system, its lifespan can be extended to over ten years.

BSlbatt lithium golf cart batteries, crafted with high-quality A+ cells for continuous 2C discharge, have a lifespan of over 3500 charge cycles at 90% DOD, which is about 10 years of daily use. This is a 3 to 4 times longer lifespan than traditional lead-acid batteries, which typically last about 2 to 3 years.

Bslbatt 38.4V 104Ah Lithium Golf Cart Battery

Time it takes to charge

Golf cart batteries must also be charged in a timely manner in addition to their range. Charge times for 48V systems are typically longer than those for 36V systems. If you choose a 48V golf cart, you may need to plan for longer charging times.

Aspects of cost

Cost plays a significant role in any purchasing decision. The enhanced power and performance of a 48V golf cart make it more expensive than a 36V model. Your specific needs and long-term benefits should be considered in addition to the upfront cost.

The maintenance and service of equipment

Golf carts with 48V and 36V power can also require different maintenance. Due to its higher power output and strain on its components, 48V systems require more frequent maintenance. In contrast, 36V systems require less frequent maintenance due to their lower power requirements. The lithium batteries in golf carts, however, do not require maintenance.

Is it possible to convert a 36V golf cart to a 48V golf cart?

Yes, of course! When converting a 36V golf cart to a 48V system, consider replacing or installing the following essential components:

• Batteries have been upgraded

• The solenoid has been upgraded

• Solenoids and resistors have been upgraded

• A new controller has been installed

• The motor has been upgraded

How fast is a 48V golf cart compared to a 36V golf cart?

Golf carts with 36V and 48V batteries have a maximum speed of 12MPH. However, there are ways to increase the speed of your golf cart:

• You can increase the speed of your golf cart by buying larger tires. The larger the wheel diameter, the faster the cart will go. In fact, standard golf carts can accommodate tires up to 20″ in diameter without requiring a lift kit or block lift. Since golf cart tires are 18″, upgrading to 20″ tires can increase speed by 2 MPH.

• With a torque upgrade kit or a controller upgrade kit, you can increase the torque of your golf cart.

You must be cautious when enhancing the speed of your golf cart. For safety reasons, golf carts have preset speeds. For that extra push, always prioritize safety if you decide to upgrade the factory stock speed!

A 36V or 48V golf cart draws how many amps?

Electric golf cart motors typically run on 36 or 48 volts, and during cruising at approximately 15 miles per hour, they consume between 50 and 70 amps.

Upgrading golf cart batteries to lithium has many benefits

• Lithium batteries typically last much longer than traditional lead-acid batteries, often up to 10 years with over 4,000 charge cycles at 100% depth of discharge.

• Lithium batteries are lighter and more compact, reducing the overall weight of the golf cart and improving its performance.

• Lithium batteries are generally faster to charge than lead-acid batteries, allowing for quicker usage turnaround times.

• Lithium batteries deliver more consistent power, ensuring more reliable and predictable performance over their lifetimes.

• A lithium battery requires minimal maintenance, reducing overall operational costs and hassle compared to a lead-acid battery.

• Due to the fact that lithium batteries do not contain hazardous materials such as lead or acid, they are more environmentally friendly.

As well as determining the strength of the electric current, voltage also plays a role. Do you know what this means for your golf cart? Voltage translates into power essentially. 48V carts are more powerful than 36V carts, and 72V carts are more powerful than either 48V or 36V.

The conclusion

As a result, both 36V and 48V golf carts have their own advantages and disadvantages. The ability to understand these variances is key to making an informed decision that will result in a satisfying ownership experience. Choosing the right voltage system for your golf cart is essential to optimizing its performance, efficiency, and longevity, whether for personal use, commercial applications, or golf course management. The upgrade of golf cart batteries to lithium is a wise investment. For more information on LiFePO4 batteries, visit Bslbatt.