How Long Will A 100Ah Battery Last In A Golf Cart?
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A 100Ah battery in a golf cart typically lasts 2–6 hours per charge, depending on voltage (common 48V/51.2V systems), terrain, load, and motor power. For example, a 48V 100Ah lithium battery driving a 3kW motor at 50% discharge depth provides ~1.5 hours of continuous operation. Lead-acid counterparts deliver less runtime due to lower usable capacity (50% discharge vs. 80% for lithium). Pro Tip: Multiply voltage by capacity (e.g., 48V × 100Ah = 4.8kWh) and divide by motor wattage to estimate runtime.
How Long Do Golf Cart Batteries Last?What factors determine a 100Ah battery's runtime in golf carts?
Motor power, terrain, and battery chemistry dictate runtime. Steep hills or heavy loads increase energy consumption by 30–50%, while flat terrain with moderate loads optimizes efficiency. Lithium batteries outperform lead-acid models with deeper discharge capability and stable voltage under load.
Runtime hinges on three variables: total energy storage (Wh), motor efficiency, and operational demands. A 51.2V 100Ah lithium pack stores 5.12kWh. If the cart’s motor draws 1,500W during typical use (e.g., 15 mph on flat ground), runtime equals ~3.4 hours (5.12kWh ÷ 1.5kW). However, start-stop driving in hilly areas may double power draw, cutting runtime to 1.7 hours. Pro Tip: Install a battery monitor to track real-time consumption and avoid deep discharges in lead-acid systems. For reference, a 48V 3000W motor in mountain terrain could drain a 100Ah lead-acid battery in under 1 hour at full throttle.
How does voltage affect a 100Ah battery's performance?
Higher voltage systems (e.g., 72V vs. 48V) reduce current draw for equivalent power, minimizing energy loss through heat. A 72V 100Ah battery operating a 5kW motor draws 69A, while a 48V system requires 104A—31% more resistive loss.
Voltage directly impacts energy capacity and thermal management. A 72V 100Ah lithium battery stores 7.2kWh versus 4.8kWh for 48V. This extra energy translates to 50% longer runtime when driving the same motor. Practical example: Two golf carts with identical 5kW motors—the 72V system completes 18 holes using 60% charge, while the 48V system requires 90%. Warning: Mixing voltage systems with incompatible controllers risks component failure—always verify controller ratings before upgrading.
| Voltage | Energy (kWh) | 5kW Motor Runtime |
|---|---|---|
| 48V | 4.8 | 58 mins |
| 72V | 7.2 | 86 mins |
ABKPower Expert Insight
FAQs
Yes—at 300W average consumption (lights & accessories), a 48V 100Ah lithium battery lasts 16 hours (4.8kWh ÷ 0.3kW). Lead-acid versions provide 8–10 hours due to limited discharge depth.
Does temperature affect 100Ah battery runtime?Absolutely. Lithium batteries lose 15–20% capacity at -10°C, while lead-acid models suffer 30–40% reductions. Always store batteries above 0°C for optimal performance.