Last Updated on January 8, 2024 by Britt Olizarowicz
Electric carts are powered by rechargeable batteries that are positioned beneath a seat. Unquestionably, there is a distinct difference between a 36 volt golf cart and a 48 volt golf cart. Country club members are most often are required to use electric carts versus gas golf carts because they operate much quieter in comparison. However, if speed is of importance, it is imperative to select one voltage rating compared to another. If you’re in the market for a new golf cart to use at your country club know the difference between the 36v VS 48V golf cart.
What Is Golf Cart Voltage
The voltage is the amount of electricity that a battery can hold. The power is delivered from the batteries of the golf cart to the motor by depressing the peddle. Most often, golf course-rated carts are fitted with either 48 or 36 volts of power delivered from a multitude of batteries in sequence.
It is imperative to know what you’re getting if you’re shopping for new or used electric golf carts because a 36 volt and 48 volt cart will perform differently. In either case, the battery bank is strung together by a complex maze of cables. The cables are fundamental to both the charging process and during operation because they are performing in unison with each other.
Keep in mind, if you’re in the market for a used cart, you won’t be able to use a resource like Kelley Blue Book. Unfortunately, there is no such thing as Kelly Blue Book golf carts.
Lastly, understand that to total 36 volts, it is a combination of 6 batteries measuring 6 volts each. If you’re wondering How many batteries does a 48 volt golf cart have, a 48 volt cart combines 6 batteries at 8 volts each.
Comparing A 36 Volt Cart To A 48 Volt Cart
Without question, knowing the difference between a 36 volt cart and 48 volt cart is important. This is especially the case if you play frequent rounds of golf at your country club. Here are the key differences between the two so that you decide on the best option.
36 Volt Speed
One of the first indications that a 36 volt cart will underperform when compared to a 48 volt cart is the number of batteries. A 36 volt cart is again equipped with a six battery bank. For this reason, it will not go as fast. In combination with the slower speed, the amount of torque is also significantly reduced.
48 Volt Speed
Remember, the 48 volt cart has 6 batteries at 8 volts a piece. With that being said, it has additional power compared to the 36 volt option. So, when it comes to performance, you can expect higher top speeds when the peddle is pushed to the floor. I currently own a 48 volt cart but previously used a 36 volt golf cart on the course. If you have a need for speed, or are always running late, the 48 volt is a better option. However, remember that you are not likely to run full speed very often while on the fairway.
36 Volt Torque
As a golf cart owner, you’re unlikely to be towing anything with it, especially as a golfer. However, if you’re comparing a 36 and 48 volt, the 36 volt is better suited for flat terrain. A 36-volt golf cart has less torque; therefore, it will struggle to climb hilly terrains.
48 Volt Torque
Undoubtably, if you’re a member of a club in an area with hills, a 48 volt cart is the right option. All of the top golf cart brands, including Club Car, manufacture a 48-volt golf cart option. Terrain is one of the important factors to consider so that is why you must keep low-end torque in mind.
36 Volt Acceleration
The acceleration is comparable to the speed is a 48 volt cart. Without a doubt, a 36 volt golf cart will accelerate more slowly on dry surfaces or wet surfaces. Remember, the power output is lower in the 36-volt; therefore, it will not increase in speed equal to that of a 48-volt.
48 Volt Acceleration
48 volt carts not only drive fast, but they accelerate fast. No matter if a 48 volt cart is fitted with traditional lead acid batteries or lithium-ion batteries, it will get up to top speed in short order. However, does it matter? You’re not drag-racing your golf cart on the course. The rate of acceleration doesn’t really matter.
36 Volt Battery Life After A Charge
As mentioned, a 6 volt batteries hold less power when compared to an 8 volt golf cart batteries. So, when the golf cart is in use, it will use more electricity to run the motor because it is less efficient. However, you won’t have any issue getting through a round of golf on 6 volt batteries so don’t be concerned about that.
48 Volt Battery Life After A Charge
The battery life for a 48 volt cart after a charge is longer when compared to the 36 volt carts. Although you won’t see much difference, it does increase the run time. The 48-volt system is ideal if you’re playing multiple rounds in a day without time to charge in between.
36 Volt Battery Cost
After about a 5 year time span with regular maintenance, golf cart batteries require replacement if you don’t have a dead battery sooner. Unfortunately, replacing batteries is expensive; however, the cost to replace 6 volts is less compared to 8 volts. You can expect to pay about $200 dollars less for a new set of 6 volt batteries.
48 Volt Battery Cost
Although the 48 volt options is the best choice for the most part one of the draw back is the battery replacement cost. In comparison, you will pay more to repower a 48 volt cart as opposed to a 6 volt cart. So, when the times comes that the batteries are weak and the cart is slow, you’ll pay a bit more to swap them out.
| Feature | 36 Volt Golf Cart | 48 Volt Golf Cart |
| Battery Life | Shorter battery life | Longer battery life |
| Performance | Lower speed and torque | Higher speed and torque |
| Initial Cost | Generally lower | Generally higher |
| Maintenance Cost | May be higher due to more frequent battery replacements | Lower over time |
| Suitability for Terrain | Better for flat terrain | Better for hilly or rugged terrain |
| Charging Infrastructure | Less demanding, compatible with standard outlets | May require specific charging equipment |
| Environmental Impact | Slightly higher due to less efficiency | Lower due to greater efficiency |
| Technological Advancements | Less advanced compared to 48-volt systems | More advanced, with newer models incorporating latest technologies |
Maintenance Comparison Between 36 Volt And 48 Volt Batteries
When it comes to maintenance, a 36 volt battery is identical to a 48 volt battery. The only difference is between a lithium-ion battery and a lead-acid battery. If you own a cart, it is imperative to remain on the correct maintenance schedule no matter if it’s a lead acid battery or a lithium ion battery.
Lead Acid Battery Maintenance
As a golf cart owner, I have always used lead acid batteries. For this reason, I can tell you exactly how to maintain them to ensure they last the expected lifespan. First, always ensure that the water levels are topped off. The batteries should be filled with distilled water when needed, but monthly water level inspections are necessary.
In addition to water levels, make sure that the battery cables are snugged securely. A loose battery cable causes arching, which quickly deteriorates the terminal in addition to the cable. Additionally, the cart will not reach the proper charge levels or run at normal speeds if the wiring is loose.
Lastly, the terminals become corroded when acid comes in contact. For this reason, it is essential to brush away any corrosion before applying a baking soda and hot water mixture to dissolve away corrosion between the cables and the terminals.
Lithium Ion Battery
The lithium battery requires less maintenance compared to the lead acid battery. 48-volt carts and 36-volt carts can be equipped with lithium batteries. Fortunately, lithium batteries are easier to keep in top shape but cost more money.
A lithium ion battery does not require water. For this reason, you will not need to inspect and fill the batteries on a monthly basis. Similar to lead acid batteries, the cables and terminals will need a close eye to avoid the formation of corrosion. However, corrosion is far less likely with lithium batteries compared to lead batteries because they don’t contain acid.
Lastly, inspect the batteries for leaks. If you’re playing a round of golf in the southwest, you are at risk of damaging the battery bank, ultimately causing leakage. It is a good idea to inspect your lithium batteries on a routine basis.
User Testimonials Of 36 Volt Carts And 48 Volt Carts
Understanding the performance of a 36 volt cart and 48 volt golf cart from golf cart owners will help you make a more informed decision as to what is best for you. Country club members how to play frequent rounds of 18 holes of this to say about 36 and 48 volt carts.
36 Volt Golf Cart
I have owned a 36-volt cart for the last four years. Where I live, the terrain is pretty flat, so I don’t need a lot of extra power to climb hills. I am happy with the 36 volt cart but do notice a difference in mine compared to 48 volts that my golf buddies have. First, they seem to hold less energy because my battery gauge is showing lower compared to theirs. Secondly, I can go as fast, but I don’t really care because I am not in a race. However, as far as the comfort is concerned, I see little difference but don’t know that batteries would impact comfort at all.
Shawn
48 Volt Golf Cart
Recently, I upgraded from a 36-volt cart to a 48-volt cart with Trojan Batteries. I was not happy investing over $20,000 in a new golf cart, but I had old batteries along with other issues that would have been costly to repair. I read about the difference between the two before I bought the cart. Surprisingly, I was amazed by the difference. I instantly noticed higher speeds, a longer range, and better acceleration. With work, I usually run behind for my tee time. The higher voltage system was well worth the investment.
Brian
36V VS 48V Golf Cart: What’s Best For You
Remember, if you’re a golf member at a country club, you’re going to want to rely not only on dependability but also on efficiency. An electric golf cart is fundamental, no matter if you’re playing golf or visiting the local grocery store. I highly recommend buying a 48 volt cart because you will ultimately have better performance. While the 36-volt will do the job, the better choice is the 48-volt. With that said, either will do, but keep in mind a 48-volt is best if you want to maximize the golf cart’s speed, range, torque, acceleration, and more. Your specific needs will be more than met with a 48-volt cart, but you can find a good balance with a 36-volt option.
