A golf cart LiFePO4 battery is a lithium iron phosphate-based power source designed for electric golf carts, offering high-cycle stability (2000-3000 cycles) and 48V/72V configurations with 50-150Ah capacities. Built with BMS protection and thermal controls, these batteries provide extended runtime (80-100 km per charge) and operate reliably in -20°C to 60°C environments.
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What defines a golf cart LiFePO4 battery system?
A golf cart LiFePO4 battery combines lithium iron phosphate chemistry with voltages from 48V to 72V, delivering 50-150Ah capacities. These systems use multi-cell series configurations (16S-23S) and integrate BMS for overcharge/discharge protection, enabling 2000-3000 cycles and operational temperatures from -20°C to 60°C.
These batteries utilize A-grade cells arranged in series to achieve required voltages—for example, a 72V pack uses 23 cells (23S). The BMS monitors cell balancing and prevents thermal runaway by cutting off at ≤60V discharge or ≥87.6V charging. Pro Tip: Always verify charger compatibility—a 72V system requires 84V (for LiFePO4) charging voltage. For context, a 72V 105Ah battery delivers 7.56kWh, powering a 4-seater golf cart for 8-10 hours. Beyond voltage specs, mechanical design matters: aluminum casings with IP65 ratings ensure dust/water resistance crucial for outdoor use.
How do LiFePO4 batteries outperform lead-acid in golf carts?
LiFePO4 offers 3-4x higher energy density and 4x faster charging versus lead-acid. With 80% depth-of-discharge tolerance, they retain 70% capacity after 2000 cycles, while lead-acid degrades after 500 cycles.
Consider a 48V 100Ah LiFePO4 battery: it weighs 32kg versus 120kg for equivalent lead-acid, reducing cart load and energy consumption. Charging completes in 5-6 hours versus 8-10 hours for lead-acid. Practically speaking, LiFePO4 maintains consistent voltage during discharge—unlike lead-acid’s voltage drop causing power loss. Real-world example: A LiFePO4-powered cart achieves 25 km/h speeds even at 20% charge, while lead-acid models slow to 15 km/h. Pro Tip: Use temperature-compensated charging—LiFePO4 accepts up to 1C (100A for 100Ah) at 25°C but reduces to 0.5C in sub-zero conditions.
Metric | LiFePO4 | Lead-Acid |
---|---|---|
Cycle Life | 2000-3000 | 300-500 |
Energy Density | 120-160 Wh/kg | 30-50 Wh/kg |
What safety features protect LiFePO4 golf cart batteries?
Key protections include multi-layered BMS, temperature sensors, and mechanical fuses. These prevent overcurrent (≥50A), cell imbalance (±30mV), and thermal runaway by disconnecting at >60°C.
The BMS enforces cell-level monitoring—balancing currents up to 100mA ensure ±2% capacity matching. For example, if one cell reaches 3.65V during charging, the BMS redirects current to lower-voltage cells. Additionally, pressure relief valves in aluminum cases vent gases if internal pressure exceeds 10 kPa. Pro Tip: Avoid stacking batteries horizontally—vertical placement optimizes heat dissipation and reduces case deformation risks.
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FAQs
Partial compatibility: LiFePO4 requires a compatible charger (58.4V for 48V systems) and often a voltage regulator for 12V accessories. Motor controllers may need reprogramming for LFP discharge curves.
How long does a 72V LiFePO4 golf cart battery last?
With daily 50% DoD cycling, expect 6-8 years. Annual capacity loss averages 3%—significantly better than lead-acid’s 20% yearly degradation.
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