Electric VS Gas Golf Carts
Electric golf carts are more popular than gas golf carts. Until recently, electric golf carts were quieter and easier to maintain. However, in the last few years, gas-powered golf carts have made considerable strides, and there isn't as much of a difference anymore. The ultimate decision will be a personal choice and intended use.
When you consider purchasing your next golf cart, the first decision to make is whether it will be gas-powered or battery-powered. There are many great brands and models in both categories, so either way, you will have plenty of options to choose from. Depending on your individual needs, we can help you make this decision with all the information you'll need.
What Is The Difference Between Gas Powered VS Electric Powered?
Gas-powered golf carts use combustion engines, similar to cars, boats, and lawnmowers. They are four-stroke engines and use the same type of gas that your car does. An electric golf cart uses large lead acid or lithium batteries to power the drivetrain. Golf cart batteries can come in multiple voltages, but the most common are 36-volt and 48-volt. Electric golf carts are plugged into a power source to charge their batteries.
Are Gas Carts More Powerful Than Electric Carts?
When comparing the top-of-the-line products from each category, we found they are very nearly the same. The newer gas engines make up to 14 horsepower and 25-foot pounds of torque. On the electric side of things, an A/C motor can perform almost identically, however, providing a better acceleration from a dead stop based on controller settings. The real difference comes down to the exact model you choose.
What's That Smell?
Yes, Gas-powered golf carts produce emissions. However, it's nothing like it used to be. Given the fact that almost every new gas cart is fuel injected, it will smell no more than the car you drive to and from work every day. This smell was a deal breaker for many people years ago. Recently, many customers have switched back to gas golf carts with the introduction of fuel injection.
How Loud Are Golf Carts?
Golf cart manufacturers do their best to minimize the sounds gas-powered golf carts make when accelerating and driving. As a result, today's engines used in golf carts are the quietest in the recreational vehicle market. However, where an electric golf cart makes no sound, a gas cart makes some.
Maintenance
Both gas and electric golf carts will require much of the same maintenance. However, there will be differences between caring for a gas-powered golf cart and an electric one. Gas-powered golf carts require both fuel and motor oil. Therefore, their engines will need tune-ups, oil changes, and similar services, just like our cars. Usually, even with daily use, one oil change a year is sufficient. Electric-powered gold carts will also need maintenance. Golf cart batteries must be topped off with distilled water every few weeks and replaced every five years or so. Monitoring the water level and proper charging habits will significantly extend their life.
Finding What's Right For You
With the way golf cart technology is going, electric golf carts are greatly improving. With the addition of lithium batteries, advancements have been made in longevity and range on some golf cart models. Electric golf carts may be more popular than gas based on their ability to be silent. However, with the addition of fuel injection and sound deadening, gas carts have come a long way. Most professionals agree that both options have their benefits and drawbacks. It truly comes down to personal opinion and your intended use for your golf cart. But chances are, if you stop by to see us, we can find a cart you'll fall in love with.
We at Bayou Buggies would love to help you make the best decision for your needs and budget. So please don't hesitate to call us today for any of your golf cart needs or questions!