Are you in the market for a new battery for your golf cart? Selecting the right battery is crucial for ensuring optimal performance and longevity for your vehicle. With a wide array of options available, it's important to understand the key factors to consider when making this decision.

What Type of Battery Does a Golf Cart Use?

There are two categories of golf carts: those powered by gas and those powered by electricity. Both types rely on batteries, but for different purposes. Gas-powered golf carts use their battery primarily to start the engine and operate electronic components, while electric carts depend on their batteries for all functions.

Gas carts typically use a smaller single battery, whereas electric carts utilize a battery system comprising four or more batteries to achieve the required voltage. It's important to understand the layout of the battery systems in electric carts if you intend to replace them.

The battery system in an electric cart can consist of either six 6-volt batteries in a 36-volt configuration, four 12-volt batteries in a 48-volt setup, or six 8-volt batteries in a 48-volt configuration. These different setups vary nearly as much as the battery types themselves. The major golf cart brands—Yamaha, Club Car, and E-Z-GO—typically come equipped with deep cycle batteries.

To determine whether your golf cart is gas or electric:

• Gas carts will require a single starting battery, similar to a car.
• Electric carts will usually require multiple batteries, depending on the overall voltage (36V or 48V).

Related reading: 36V VS 48V Golf Cart Battery

Deep Cycle Golf Cart Batteries

Deep cycle golf cart batteries are specially designed to provide a consistent and reliable power source for electric golf carts and other electric vehicles. Unlike regular car batteries, deep cycle batteries are built to withstand deep discharges and recharges repeatedly without affecting their performance or lifespan.

These batteries use thicker plates and a different chemical composition compared to regular car batteries, allowing them to deliver a steady current over an extended period. This makes them ideal for applications where a sustained power supply is needed, such as powering electric golf carts, utility vehicles, and recreational vehicles. Suggest reading: Starting VS Deep Cycle Battery

Deep cycle golf cart batteries are available in various voltages and capacities to accommodate different power requirements. They are commonly used in golf courses, resorts, and other recreational facilities where electric golf carts are the primary mode of transportation.

When selecting deep cycle golf cart batteries, factors such as capacity, voltage, cycle life, and maintenance requirements should be considered to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Proper maintenance, including regular charging and periodic inspections, can help extend the lifespan of these batteries and ensure reliable operation over time.

4 Different Types of Deep Cycle Golf Cart Batteries

1. Lead-Acid Batteries

These batteries are the most economical option and are well-suited for regular recreational use. Classified as "wet" batteries, they contain a blend of electrolytes and water, serving as a conductor. The primary downside, aside from their relatively short lifespan (around 2 years at the minimum), is the requirement for regular watering by adding approximately ¼ inch of water above the lead plates.

Pros:

• Cost-effective: Lead-acid batteries are generally the most economical option.
• Well-suited for regular recreational use.
• Widely available and familiar technology.

Cons:

• Shorter lifespan: Typically lasts around 2 to 5 years.
• Requires regular maintenance: Needs to be topped off with water regularly.
• Susceptible to damage from deep discharges.

2. AGM Batteries

The Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) battery represents an advancement over traditional lead-acid batteries, employing fiberglass mats between the lead plates. This design eliminates the need for watering the batteries and ensures they remain leak-free and sealed. Slightly pricier than standard lead-acid batteries, AGM batteries are a popular choice for individuals willing to pay more for reduced maintenance. An AGM golf cart battery typically lasts between 3 to 5 years.

Pros:

• Maintenance-free: Eliminates the need for watering and is leak-free and sealed.
• Longer lifespan: Lasts between 3 to 5 years.
• Better suited for deep cycling compared to traditional lead-acid batteries.

Cons:

• More expensive than traditional lead-acid batteries.
• Sensitive to overcharging, which can shorten their lifespan.

3. Gel Batteries

Similar to AGM batteries, these batteries do not rely on water or fiberglass for conducting electricity. Instead, they use a gel that is silica-based, facilitating efficient energy transfer and requiring minimal maintenance. While AGM batteries excel in charge retention, gel batteries perform better in extreme temperatures and are better suited for longer, slower discharge cycles.

Pros:

• Maintenance-free: The gel inside is a silica base that requires minimal maintenance.
• Performs well in extreme temperatures.
• Well-suited for longer, slower discharge cycles

Cons:

• More expensive than traditional lead-acid batteries and AGM batteries.
• Sensitive to overcharging, which can reduce their lifespan.
• Lower energy density compared to lithium-ion batteries.

4. Lithium-Ion Batteries

In recent years, lithium batteries have begun to appear in golf carts across the country. They boast impressive longevity (lasting between 10 to 20 years) and exceptional energy density, making them ideal for start-stop driving scenarios, such as those encountered at clubs or during errands. While Li-ion batteries for golf carts come with a higher price tag, they outperform traditional options in nearly every significant aspect.

Pros:

• Longevity: Lasts between 10 to 20 years, significantly longer than other types of batteries.
• High energy density: Offers exceptional power in a lightweight package.
• Fast charging and efficient energy transfer.

Cons:

• Higher initial cost: Lithium-ion batteries are more expensive upfront.

LiTime GC2 Lithium Golf Cart Battery

Most Popular Golf Cart BCI Battery Sizes

The most popular golf cart BCI battery groups consist of the following:

• 6 Volt BCI Group GC2/GC2H: 10 3/8 x 7 3/16 x 10 7/8 inches (10.375 x 7.1875 x 10.875 inches, 264 x 183 x 277 mm)
• 8 Volt BCI Group GC8/GC8H: 10 3/8 x 7 3/16 x 10 7/8 inches (10.375 x 7.1875 x 10.625 inches, 264 x 183 x 277 mm) and 10 3/8 x 7 3/16 x 11 5/8 inches (10.375 x 7.1875 x 11.625 inches, 264 x 183 x 295 mm)
• 12 Volt BCI Group GC12: 12 7/8 x 7 3/16 x 10 7/8 inches (12.875 x 7.1875 x 10.875 inches, 327 x 183 x 277 mm)

What is a GC2 Battery?

The GC2 battery size is indeed popular in the golf cart industry. These batteries are commonly used to power electric golf carts due to their reliability and capacity. GC2 batteries are deep-cycle lead-acid batteries, designed to provide a steady amount of power over an extended period, which makes them well-suited for the demands of golf cart usage.

These batteries are known for their durability and ability to handle the deep discharges and recharges that are typical in golf cart applications.

Golf Cart Battery Pack Voltages

The most commonly used voltages for golf cart batteries are 36V and 48V, with a few other less common options also available. The chart below illustrates the number of batteries needed to attain the desired voltage for the battery pack, with connections made in series:

How Do I Know What Batteries to Get for My Golf Cart?

When purchasing batteries, there are two key power features to consider.

• Voltage (Volts or V) indicates the amount of power available.
• Current (amps or A) determines the speed at which power is delivered.

Amperage directly affects the distance and duration of the charge. Higher amperage results in a longer drive per charge. Opt for high voltage for extended leisurely rides, or choose amperage for shorter yet more responsive rides.

Your electric cart can accommodate 6, 8, or 12V batteries. Its electrical drive system will operate at either 36V or 48V. To determine the appropriate type for your cart, inspect the battery compartment. If you find 3, 4, or 6 holes, multiply the number by two to ascertain your cart's voltage capability.

What Are High-Quality Golf Cart Batteries

The key features of high-quality golf cart batteries include:

• Weight: Opting for lightweight lithium batteries over heavy lead-acid ones is desirable due to the weight of the battery pack.
• Maintenance: While wet/flooded lead-acid batteries require regular water replacement, AGM/Gel-Cell and lithium batteries are maintenance-free, eliminating the need for refilling.
• Cycle Life: Lead-acid batteries typically endure 700-1200 cycles down to 50% Depth of Discharge (DoD), while some models support up to 1600 cycles. In contrast, lithium batteries can withstand 4000-6000 cycles down to 80-100% DoD.
• Charging Speed: Lead-acid batteries discharged to 50% DoD can be recharged in 4-6 hours, while lithium batteries discharged to 100% can be safely recharged in 2-3 hours, with some models capable of a 1-hour recharge.
• Capacity Drop: When lead-acid batteries are discharged in one hour, their actual capacity drops to 55-60% of their nominal capacity, while lithium batteries experience minimal capacity loss.
• Parallel and Series Connections: Golf cart batteries may need to be connected in parallel to create larger battery packs or in series to achieve higher voltage. Lead-acid batteries can be easily connected in both parallel and series, while lithium batteries require explicit permission from the manufacturer for such connections.

When selecting new golf cart batteries, it's crucial to consider these requirements based on your specific needs and preferences.

Best Recommended GC2 Golf Cart Battery

LiTime 48V 30Ah GC2 Golf Cart Battery has been meticulously designed to effortlessly integrate with a range of golf carts, including Club Car, EZGO, ICON, and Yamaha models. Unlike previous iterations, the new batteries eliminate the need for additional modifications or adapters, providing a hassle-free replacement experience for customers.

In addition to seamless compatibility, the upgraded lithium golf cart batteries boast several outstanding features, including:

• Direct replace traditional lead acid golf cart batteries: Seamlessly compatible with Club Car, EZGO, ICON, and Yamaha golf cart models, ensuring easy installation and integration.
• Bluetooth 5.0 & Auto-Connection: Smart control and monitoring of the battery through the LiTime App, providing users with real-time insights and management capabilities.
• Upgraded BMS with 20+ Protection: Ensures the battery's security including low-temp cut-off protection, over-voltage protection, low-voltage protection, over-temp protection, short-circuit protectio, over-current protection and so on.
• High Discharging Current Rating: With a 300(1S) rating, the battery provides powerful acceleration, supports higher power motors, and delivers a smoother ride experience overall.

If you are looking for a new golf cart battery, take a look at LiTime GC2 Lithium Golf Cart Battery.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right battery for your golf cart is a decision that should not be taken lightly. GC2 batteries offer a compelling combination of performance, durability, and reliability, making them an excellent choice for powering golf carts. By considering factors such as capacity, voltage, construction, and maintenance requirements, you can select the ideal GC2 battery to meet the unique needs of your golf cart, ensuring many enjoyable rounds on the course for years to come.