Lithium golf cart batteries typically require 100–150Ah capacity for standard 48V systems, depending on usage patterns. A 48V 100Ah lithium battery provides ~4.8kWh usable energy (assuming 80% depth of discharge), sufficient for 25–35 miles per charge. Heavy users prioritizing 50+ mile range should opt for 150Ah+ configurations. Key factors include terrain, passenger load, and accessory power draw.
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How do terrain and load affect Ah requirements?
Hilly terrain increases energy consumption by 30–40% versus flat courses. Each 150lb passenger adds ~8% amp-hour drain. Pro Tip: Add 25% buffer to calculated Ah needs if regularly navigating slopes >10° grade.
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Mountainous courses demand thicker battery cables and higher discharge rates. For example, a 48V 120Ah lithium pack that lasts 30 miles on flat ground might only deliver 18–22 miles in hilly areas. Transitional phrase: Beyond basic calculations, consider that lithium batteries maintain voltage better than lead-acid under load. This means while Ah ratings appear similar, lithium’s actual usable capacity outperforms traditional batteries by 15–20% in real-world conditions.
What’s the formula for calculating required Ah?
Use: (Daily miles × 20Wh/mile) ÷ (Battery voltage × DoD). A 15-mile daily need at 48V with 80% DoD becomes (15×20)/(48×0.8)=7.8Ah. Multiply by safety factor (1.2–1.5) for 94–117Ah requirement.
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Real-world example: A 4-passenger cart climbing 8° hills daily needs (25 miles×25Wh/mile)=625Wh. At 48V with 90% DoD: 625/(48×0.9)=14.5Ah base ×1.3 safety factor=189Ah. Transitional phrase: Practically speaking, most users can simplify this with 30Wh/mile estimates for mixed terrain. Why risk stranded carts? Always round up to nearest standard battery size (100Ah, 120Ah, 150Ah).
| Usage | Lead-Acid Ah | Lithium Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Leisure (10mi/day) | 225Ah | 105Ah |
| Commercial (30mi/day) | 600Ah | 280Ah |
Does battery voltage affect Ah selection?
Absolutely. Higher voltage systems (72V vs 48V) reduce required Ah for same energy. 72V 80Ah provides 5.76kWh – equivalent to 48V 120Ah. Key consideration: Ensure motor controller supports battery voltage.
Transitional phrase: While voltage impacts amp-hour needs, lithium’s efficiency allows smaller physical packs. A 72V 100Ah lithium battery often outperforms 48V 150Ah lead-acid in both range and lifespan, despite similar kWh ratings. But what if your charger isn’t voltage-specific? Always match charging equipment to battery specifications to prevent dangerous overvoltage situations.
Redway Battery Expert Insight
FAQs
Yes – lithium’s 100% usable capacity vs lead-acid’s 50% makes 100Ah lithium equivalent to 200Ah lead-acid. Ensure physical dimensions match your battery tray.
How long do lithium golf cart batteries last?
Properly maintained LiFePO4 batteries provide 2,000–5,000 cycles, lasting 8–15 years versus 3–5 years for lead-acid. Store at 50% charge when inactive >30 days.
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