For golf carts today, lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries are the optimal choice due to their 3,000–5,000 cycle lifespan, 30% higher energy density than lead-acid, and thermal stability. A 48V 100Ah LiFePO4 system provides 5.12kWh capacity, supporting 18–25 holes per charge. Prioritize models with integrated BMS protection against overcharge/over-discharge and ensure voltage compatibility with your cart’s motor controller.
What Size Lithium Battery Do I Need for My Golf Cart?
Why choose LiFePO4 over traditional lead-acid?
LiFePO4 batteries offer 4× longer lifespan and 50% weight reduction versus lead-acid. Unlike flooded batteries requiring water refills, lithium systems are maintenance-free and deliver stable voltage until 90% discharge. Pro Tip: Use adaptive chargers with temperature sensors to prevent winter charging damage below 0°C.
Traditional 6V lead-acid setups need 8 batteries (48V) weighing 600+ lbs, while equivalent LiFePO4 packs weigh under 200 lbs. For example, Trojan T-105 lead-acid batteries last 500 cycles at 50% depth of discharge (DoD), whereas Relion RB100 LiFePO4 maintains 80% capacity after 3,000 cycles at 100% DoD. Beyond upfront costs, lithium’s 8–10 year service life reduces total ownership costs by 60%.
| Parameter | LiFePO4 | Lead-Acid |
|---|---|---|
| Cycle Life | 3,000+ | 500–800 |
| Weight (48V 100Ah) | 110–150 lbs | 400–600 lbs |
What voltage/capacity matches my golf cart?
Most modern carts use 48V systems, requiring eight 6V or six 8V batteries. Match capacity (Ah) to your course terrain—100Ah suits flat courses (15–20 miles), while 150Ah handles hilly terrain (25–30 miles). Verify controller compatibility: 48V lithium packs have 54.6V full charge vs 52V for lead-acid.
For a 48V cart originally designed for lead-acid, a 51.2V LiFePO4 pack (16 cells) provides perfect voltage alignment. Practically speaking, a 150Ah battery delivers 7.68kWh—enough for 36 holes on a single charge. Pro Tip: Add 20% extra capacity if frequently carrying 4+ passengers or towing equipment.
| Usage Scenario | Recommended Capacity |
|---|---|
| 2 passengers, flat terrain | 100Ah |
| 4 passengers, moderate hills | 150Ah |
Redway Battery Expert Insight
Golf Cart Battery Replacement Cost
FAQs
Yes, but upgrade cables to 4AWG minimum—lithium’s lower internal resistance allows higher current flow that could overheat original 6AWG wiring.
Do lithium batteries require special chargers?
Use LiFePO4-specific chargers with ±0.5% voltage accuracy. Lead-acid chargers risk overcharging beyond 3.65V/cell, triggering permanent BMS lockouts.
