A 100Ah lithium battery in a golf cart typically lasts 6–10 hours of continuous use, translating to 50–70 km (30–45 miles) per charge. Actual runtime depends on terrain, load weight, speed, and auxiliary power usage. For example, a 48V 100Ah LiFePO4 battery delivers 4.8 kWh, sustaining 600W motors for ~8 hours at moderate speeds. Pro Tip: Keep discharge depth below 80% to maximize cycle life.
How is golf cart battery runtime calculated?
Runtime (hours) = Battery capacity (Ah) × Voltage × depth of discharge (DoD) ÷ Motor power (W). For a 48V 100Ah battery with 80% DoD powering a 1,200W motor: (100 × 48 × 0.8) ÷ 1200 = 3.2 hours. Hilly terrain can slash this by 40%.
What factors reduce lithium battery runtime?
Key runtime killers include steep inclines (↑50% energy use), cold temperatures (↓30% capacity at -10°C), and accessory loads (lights, GPS). Carrying 4 passengers instead of 2 can cut range by 35%. Real-world example: A 100Ah battery lasting 8 hours on flat roads may only deliver 5 hours in hilly areas with headwinds.
| Condition | Runtime Impact | Mitigation |
|---|---|---|
| Hills | -40% | Use regenerative braking |
| Cold (0°C) | -25% | Pre-warm battery |
| High Speed | -30% | Limit to 15-20 mph |
Where to Find a 6-Volt Golf Cart Battery Near You
How does voltage affect golf cart performance?
Higher voltage (48V vs. 36V) improves torque and efficiency. A 48V 100Ah system provides 20% more hill-climbing power than 36V equivalents. However, mismatched controllers cause voltage sag—always pair 48V batteries with 48V motors. Pro Tip: Upgrade wiring to 6 AWG when switching to lithium—reduces resistance losses by 60%.
Redway Battery Expert Insight
FAQs
Yes, but expect 30–40% shorter runtime. Opt for 120Ah+ batteries if your route has >15% inclines.
Do lithium batteries lose capacity over time?
Yes—quality LiFePO4 loses ~3% annually vs. 15% for lead-acid. Store at 50% charge in moderate temps to minimize degradation.
