If you want a new golf cart, you can go with a gas-powered or electric one. Both options have advantages and considerations and are suitable for different preferences and needs.
In this article, I will explain the key differences between gas and electric golf carts, including their performance, price, and maintenance requirements. Understanding these distinctions can help you make the best decision when you decide to buy your own golf cart!
Gas vs Electric: Comparison
Price
Initial Purchase Price
Electric golf carts typically cost around $2,500 for basic lead-acid battery-equipped models, while gas-powered golf carts usually start at $5,000 for recognizable name brands.
Entry-level electric golf carts have batteries that need replacement every few years. Upgrading to better lithium-ion batteries adds $1,000 or more to the price.
However, based on an evaluation over a 10-year ownership lifespan with battery replacements factored in, the total costs of electric and gas carts are close.
Winner: Tie
Operating Costs
Electric golf carts offer lower operating costs since electricity is much cheaper than gas. Potential savings on fuel or charging costs can be upwards of $1,000 per year. The price you pay to operate your golf cart is based on:
your location
the price of fuel
the size of the gas tank
With an electric golf cart, all you need to do is charge it after your round, and you will be good to go the next time you are out on the golf course.
Winner: Electric
Power and Performance
Power Output
Gas golf carts have more power and torque compared to electric golf carts. This allows gas carts to handle rough terrains and steep inclines more effectively, making them suitable for golf courses with challenging topography.
Winner: Gas
Instant Torque
Electric carts deliver instant torque, providing quick acceleration and smooth performance. This makes them ideal for golfers who prioritize a quiet and seamless driving experience without the noise and vibration associated with gas-powered carts.
Gas golf carts may take longer to start and don’t provide the instant torque of an electric golf cart.
Winner: Electric
Environmental Impact
Electric carts are more environmentally friendly, producing zero emissions during operation. This makes them a greener environment option than gas carts, which emit pollutants during use.
Winner: Electric
Maintenance
When comparing the maintenance requirements of gas and electric golf carts, several key differences should be considered:
Routine Maintenance
Gas golf carts require more frequent routine maintenance compared to electric carts. This includes regular oil changes, air filter replacements, spark plug changes, and fuel system maintenance.
Winner: Electric
Battery Maintenance
Electric carts require periodic battery maintenance, including proper charging and occasional water level checks for lead-acid batteries. Lithium-ion batteries require less maintenance and need specific care to maximize their lifespan.
Winner: Gas
Engine Maintenance
Gas golf carts have engines that require ongoing care, such as checking for leaks, maintaining proper fuel levels, and addressing exhaust system maintenance.
Winner: Electric
Brake Maintenance
Both gas and electric golf carts require brake maintenance, including inspection and potential replacement of brake pads, brake cables, and adjustments to maintain optimal braking performance.
Winner: Tie
Storage and Winterization
Both types of golf carts require appropriate storage and winterization procedures if they will not be used for an extended period. This includes battery maintenance for electric carts and fuel system preparation for gas carts.
You must have a place to store your golf cart when its not in use.
Winner: Tie
Noisiness
Gas golf carts are known for their loud engine noise, which is louder and more noticeable than electric golf carts. The combustion engine in gas carts generates noise during operation.
Electric carts are quieter, producing minimal noise during use. The electric motor runs silently, providing a more peaceful and serene driving experience.
Winner: Electric
Run Time Per Tank/Charge
Electric golf carts generally range 15 to 25 miles on a single charge, depending on the voltage and battery health. Run-time can vary based on battery condition, terrain, and usage patterns.
Battery life and the ability to estimate remaining charge are essential considerations for electric golf cart owners. As you can imagine, recharging is challenging if the cart runs out of power while in use.
A gas golf cart can cover longer distances on a full fuel tank than electric carts, ranging from 100 to 180 miles with a 4-6 gallon fuel tank. While gas carts offer longer duration on the course, they come with the downside of higher fuel costs and environmental impact due to emissions.
Winner: Gas
Most Popular Golf Cart Brands
Yamaha
Yamaha is one of the most popular golf cart brands. They offer both electric and gas golf carts and are known for providing stability, power, and reliability on all of its models.
E-Z-Go
E-Z-Go is another famous golf cart brand that offers electric and gas-powered golf carts. It offers numerous customization options, including various colors, accessories, and powertrains, to create the desired golf cart.
Club Car
Club Car is another famous golf cart brand. They also offer both gas and electric carts for personal and commercial use. These golf carts are some of the most popular found at golf clubs.
Club Car is known for its innovation and versatility, offering various customization options, including seats, wheels, and lift kits.
Conclusion
With this information, you can make a better choice on the best golf cart for you! Gas vs electric golf carts, your choice of ride is now in your hands!
In this comparison guide, I’ve gone over tons of factors and features that I frequently get asked about. Use this information to buy the best golf course today!
