Yes, lead-acid golf cart batteries are more widely available, and yes, they cost less (upfront) but this short post will show that golf cart lithium batteries ultimately deliver more value. So, with no further ado, let’s get into this.
1. They’re potentially more environmentally friendly in more than one way
Obviously, lead-acid batteries are made with lead, which is a toxic, heavy metal. Lithium-ion batteries are not made with lead.
But, you think, cobalt is toxic. This is true. However, some lithium batteries, such as LiFePO4, or lithium iron oxide batteries (also known as LFP batteries) are not made with toxic heavy metals.
Also, since they last longer, you’ll need to dispose of batteries less frequently, which is also a potential environmental advantage.
2. They never need to be watered
Wet-cell lead-acid batteries need to be watered frequently to replenish the electrolyte solution, or else the battery will be irreparably damaged. You will never need to water a lithium golf cart battery, regardless of its cell chemistry.
3. There are safe options
You may have heard that golf cart lithium batteries are “dangerous”. This concern is overblown. The LiFePO4 batteries mentioned in the last section have very stable battery chemistry that is unlikely to overheat, even if it is overcharged. They are the safest golf cart lithium batteries on the market.
4. They’re lighter and more compact
Lithium batteries are lighter than lead-acid batteries, across the board. This doesn’t just make installing batteries easier and more convenient; it will positively impact the performance and handling of your golf cart, particularly with acceleration and climbing grades.
5. They deliver more consistent performance, even with a low charge level
The power output of lead-acid batteries tapers off as the charge level drops. Lithium batteries deliver consistent performance even after the battery’s charge level is below 50%.
6. They need no maintenance
Other than keeping the battery charged, there really isn’t anything special you need to do with a lithium battery. They’re basically maintenance-free.
7. They (can) charge quickly
Usually it takes 6 to 12 hours, if not longer, to charge a lead-acid battery, especially if the charge level was low. There are some pretty fast-charging lithium golf cart batteries out there that you can take from nearly dead to full in as little as 2 hours, with the right charger.
8. Low self-discharge
If you’re not familiar with self-discharge, it’s one of the most unpleasant elements of battery performance. Basically, self-discharge refers to the battery’s slow loss of charge level, not only when it is not in use, but when it is not connected to a circuit.
Lithium ion batteries are renowned for their low self-discharge, as low as 1-2% per month, which is much lower than lead-acid batteries. The latter often self-discharge at a rate of 4-6% per month, and sometimes faster.
9. They last longer
Lithium batteries are longer-lasting than lead-acid batteries. A good lithium battery, such as a LiFePO4 battery, can last through as many as 3000 to 5000 cycles, which can equate to 15+ years, much longer than most lead-acid batteries. This can help offset the high upfront costs associated with lithium batteries.
10. They’re more physically durable
Golf cart lithium batteries, like the golf carts themselves, are often subject to the bumps and knocks of a rough road. Lithium batteries are physically more durable than lead-acid batteries and as a result, they tend to last longer. With features like Vibration Resistance and IP-65 rated casing, they offer protection across a range of usages.
11. They’re better in extreme temperatures
Lead-acid batteries are notoriously unreliable in extreme temperatures, particularly in extreme cold. Lithium batteries are much more reliable in extreme temperatures, especially with respect to power output. With features like Internal Self-Heating, many leading products can provide optimal performance in a range of environments.
12. They’re not as expensive as you think
One of the common concerns among potential users is that lithium batteries are more expensive upfront than lead-acid batteries. That is technically true, but when you consider the performance, reliability, consistency, low-maintenance, and most of all, the lifespan of lithium golf cart batteries, the costs are far more logical. While you replace lead-acid batteries every 2-3 years, achieving 15+ years of usage with LiFePO4 batteries means significant savings long term.
Landed Here in Search of Golf Cart Lithium Batteries? You’re in the Right Place
As you can see, there are numerous very good reasons that golf cart lithium batteries are considered a premium, if not the premium, option.
Whether you have a single golf cart in the garage for getting around the property or you are responsible for upgrading a fleet, we can help. We carry a variety of lithium batteries for golf carts and we’d be more than happy to help you find suitable upgrades. Get in touch with our customer service team today if you have any questions.
