Gas vs. Electric Golf Carts: What’s the Difference?

When you’re in the market for a new golf cart, one of the biggest decisions you’re going to have to make is whether you want a gas-powered or electric one. While many manufacturers have started shifting toward electric models, you can still buy a new gas cart. Gas carts have a purpose and function that customers may want from their utility vehicles, but electric carts offer a myriad of competitive benefits. If you’re wondering what the difference is between gas and electric golf carts, Ben Nelson Golf and Outdoor is here to help you make an informed decision.

Price and Upkeep

Many people try to set a budget for themselves for buying a new golf cart, and that’s a smart thing to do. However, the overall cost of a golf cart will vary on a range of conditions. Every factor, from the manufacturer of the cart to the model and year, can make some big changes. Also, a cart’s status as new or pre-owned and any additional accessories it has can impact the overall cost.

Taking all of that into consideration, it may surprise you to learn that electric carts are often more affordable than their gasoline counterparts. An electric golf cart of a similar make, model, and condition may run anywhere from $500 to $1,000 less than its gasoline counterpart.

A common misconception about electric carts is that they’re more expensive to use over time because of how often you need to swap the batteries. However, with proper maintenance, a standard 48-volt battery should last between six and seven years. Gasoline carts also require battery maintenance, and owners need to pay for gas, oil, and regular service. The overall cost of maintaining an electric cart is considerably lower than a traditional gas-powered cart in the long term. However, replacement batteries are a much larger expense at the time of purchase, so having some money saved for this is helpful.

Speed and Power

When looking at the difference between gas and electric golf carts, you may want to take speed and power into consideration. To the surprise of many, electric golf carts typically have a higher overall speed and can reach up to 25 miles per hour. If you upgrade your cart, you may even get it to reach 30 miles per hour. Conversely, gas carts usually don’t go above 20 miles per hour, and there aren’t very many upgrade options to increase the power in the motor.

While electric and gasoline carts both have powerful torque, you may want to go with a gasoline cart if you plan on using your golf cart for hauling heavy materials. Gasoline carts can withstand more weight and can last longer if you regularly load them up for moving heavy loads.

Overall Run Time

If you’re looking for a golf cart that can go for long periods without stopping, then a gasoline cart may be the better option. Most golf carts can go over 100 miles on a single tank of gas, and you can always bring a can of gasoline with you on particularly long drives. Comparatively, an electric cart may only go between 30 and 40 miles before you need to stop by a station and recharge it. This can make things difficult for long journeys.

However, many people who use their carts recreationally or use them throughout the workday only drive their golf carts about 10 miles each day. This makes the difference virtually meaningless for all but the most hardcore travelers. If distance is a major factor for you, a gas-powered cart is a better option. But for the more casual consumer, an electric golf cart will provide more than enough range before you need to recharge the battery. Also, many electric golf carts have meters that enable you to see how much time or distance you have left before the battery dies. Therefore, you shouldn’t have to worry about your electric golf cart stranding you in the middle of nowhere.

Noise and Vibration

If you want a golf cart that makes little noise and doesn’t vibrate very much, then an electric cart wins without question. While gas-powered carts aren’t as noisy as other utility vehicle options, their engines do still make a bit of noise, and riders may find their seats get warmer during operation. Many hunters, for example, enjoy electric vehicles because they’re far more silent and easier to navigate through the woods undetected.

Additionally, gas carts tend to vibrate more from all the moving parts in the engine, resulting in a bumpier ride if you’re driving through rough terrain. For a smoother surface, like those on a golf course, vibration is less of a concern. Regardless, an electric golf cart provides overall less vibration, ensuring a smoother, more comfortable ride on any terrain.

Overall Emissions

Electric carts win once again if you’re looking for a greener option with fewer emissions. Because electric golf carts don’t burn fuel, they don’t have any emissions, and you won’t need to stock up on gasoline. While electric golf cart batteries are more carbon-intensive to make compared with lead-acid alternatives, they compensate by having recyclable parts and producing overall cleaner rides throughout their lifespan.

While both gasoline and electric golf carts have unique purposes, it’s understandable why most shoppers prefer an electric cart. Compared with gas-powered options, electric carts are more affordable, easier to maintain, faster, quieter, and better for the environment. Gasoline carts mainly excel in power and range, making them the better option for load bearing and long trips. Otherwise, an electric golf cart is likely your best bet.

If you’re looking for golf carts for sale in Memphis, stop by Ben Nelson Golf and Outdoor. We have over 10 years of experience helping people find golf carts in a range of high-quality makes and models. Ben Nelson has a great selection of both electric and gas-powered golf carts, UTVs, and other machines for your recreational or professional needs. Stop by one of our dealerships to see what we have to offer, or contact us anytime to speak with a member of our team!