The Factors That Determine Range Distance in Golf Carts with Lithium Batteries

Golf carts with lithium batteries are gaining popularity due to their superior efficiency, longer lifespan, and reduced weight compared to traditional lead-acid batteries. However, just like electric cars, the range of a golf cart depends on several factors. Understanding these can help owners maximize their cart's performance and avoid unexpected battery depletion.

1. Weight of Passengers and Cargo

The total weight a golf cart carries significantly impacts its range. A fully loaded cart with multiple passengers, golf bags, or additional cargo requires more energy to move, which drains the battery faster. Keeping the load as light as possible can help extend range.

2. Number of Passengers

More passengers mean more weight, leading to increased power consumption. A cart designed for two people will go farther than one carrying four or six passengers under the same battery conditions.

3. Driving Style

Aggressive acceleration and sudden braking consume more energy than gradual acceleration and smooth driving. Maintaining a steady speed and avoiding hard stops will help conserve battery power.

4. Tire and Wheel Type

Tires with high rolling resistance, such as off-road or all-terrain tires, can reduce efficiency compared to smooth, low-resistance tires designed for pavement or golf course use. Larger wheels may also impact range by changing the effective gearing and requiring more power to turn. NEVO uses X Comp Golf X/T tires which have exception range on both the course turf and street.

5. Voltage and Amp Hours of the Battery

Lithium golf cart batteries come in various voltage and amp-hour (Ah) ratings. Higher voltage systems (e.g., 48V vs. 36V) tend to provide more power and efficiency. Meanwhile, higher amp-hour ratings mean more stored energy, directly affecting how far the cart can travel before recharging.  NEVO has an industry leading 72V 150AH Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery.

6. Windshield Position (Up or Down)

Driving with the windshield up increases aerodynamic drag, which can slightly reduce range, especially at higher speeds. Folding it down improves aerodynamics and can add a few extra miles to the battery’s range. Some brands only carry full glass windshields which can affect range. NEVOs come with a clear folding windshield.

7. Motor Efficiency

The efficiency of the electric motor plays a critical role in battery usage. Newer, high-efficiency motors use less energy to provide the same performance, leading to a longer range compared to older, less efficient models. NEVOs come with a 5kW motor.

8. Brake Regenerative Settings

Some lithium-powered golf carts come equipped with regenerative braking, which helps recover energy when slowing down. Properly adjusting regen settings can improve range by redirecting kinetic energy back into the battery instead of wasting it as heat. NEVOs use a Curtis controller which allows us to adjust the regen settings to your liking. 

9. Hills and Terrain

Driving on hilly terrain consumes more power than on flat surfaces. Steep inclines require more torque, which drains the battery faster. If your course or neighborhood has a lot of hills, expect a reduced range compared to flatter areas.

10. Stop-and-Go Driving

Frequent stops and starts require bursts of power, which can shorten the battery’s range compared to steady, continuous driving. Longer, uninterrupted travel at a consistent speed is more energy-efficient.  However, utilizing regenerative braking can improve range for frequent stops. 

11. Temperature and Weather Conditions

Extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold, can affect lithium battery performance. Cold weather reduces battery efficiency, while excessive heat can increase discharge rates. Proper battery management and storage help maintain performance.

Maximizing Your Golf Cart’s Range

To get the most out of your lithium-powered golf cart:

• Maintain a smooth driving style.

• Keep the cart as lightweight as possible.

• Use low-resistance tires.

• Optimize battery voltage and amp-hour capacity.

• Adjust regenerative braking settings.

• Keep the windshield down when possible.

• Plan routes to minimize excessive hills and stop-and-go driving.

By understanding these factors, golf cart owners can better manage their vehicle’s battery life and optimize range, ensuring a reliable and efficient ride every time.