The main difference between a 36v and 48v golf cart is their torque. A 48v golf cart has a horsepower of 10.1 HP which gives it a high torque to get through hilly terrains with ease. A 36v golf cart on the other hand has a horsepower of 6.1 HP making it suitable for only flat surface terrain.
When choosing between a 36v vs 48v golf cart, there are important factors to look out for to make the right choice and meet your needs. Having understood the tussle of making the right choice for a golf cart, I wrote out this article to help you understand the difference between a 48v and 36v golf cart to help you make a better choice.
36v vs 48v Golf Cart Table Comparision
| 36v golf cart | 48v golf cart |
|---|---|
| They are more affordable. | They are more expensive. |
| It is only best for flat terrains. | It’s suitable for all terrains. |
| Speeds up slower comparatively. | Speeds up faster. |
| Their battery does last as long as the 48v golf. | Its battery lasts longer than that of 36v. |
Top 10 Main Differences Between 36v vs 48v Golf Cart
The following are the differences between a 36 volt vs 48 volt golf cart:
1. Batteries
48v golf carts have either 6 eight volt batteries or 4 twelve volt batteries which can run for approximately 30 miles with one charge while a 36v golf cart uses 6 six volt batteries which run for about 20-25 miles on one charge.
2. Volt And Ampere
A 48v golf cart has a voltage of about 57.6-58.8 volts and an amp of roughly 600 amps. A 36v golf cart, on the other hand, has a voltage of about 42 volts and an amp of roughly 1350 amps. The lower the amp rate of the 48v cart enables it to cover more range than the 36v.
3. Power & Torque
By standard, a 36v, and 48v golf cart are both capable of 12 mph top-end speed but a 48v cart has an increased low-end torque which gives it more power and ability to go through rough terrains, unlike a 36v cart.
4. Speed
The speed of the 48v golf cart is within the range of 12-14 mph. This makes it run faster than a 36v cart which has a speed level of 12mph. However, a 36v cart can be modified to run as fast too.
5. Maintenance
A 48v golf cart is more expensive than a 36v golf cart. Maintaining a 48v golf cart is, therefore, more expensive. This is one major drawback of the 48v golf cart.
6. Pricing
A 48v golf cart is more expensive compared to a 36v cart. A 48v golf cart can cost up to $8500 while a 36v golf cart can cost up to $4500. This is the most important factor when choosing between a 36v vs 48v golf cart.
7. Tire Size
A standard 48v golf cart would have a tire of 22 x 11 x 10 inches (height, width, and length) which is larger than that of a 36v golf cart which would be 18 x 8.5-5 inches. The largeness of the 48v tires makes it faster and better than a 36v cart.
8. Terrain Performance
48v golf cart has an increased low-end torque which gives it the pull to move on tough terrains like the hills. This is a major advantage over the 36v golf cart which can only move on flat terrains.
9. After-Market Upgrades
A 48v golf cart is more modified than a 36v golf cart which means that a 36v golf cart will likely need more upgrades than a 48v golf cart if it’s to meet certain standards like covering more range.
10. Range
A 48v golf cart can have more advantages over a 36v cart as it offers a range of 40-45 miles while a 36v golf cart offers a range of about 30 miles.
Which Is Better 36v or 48v Golf Cart?
The 48v golf cart is better than a 36v cart because it has more power, torque, speed, and can cover more range in just one charge. However, a 36v cart can be upgraded to improve its features. You can change the controller to a 48v for an increased speed of up to 14-20 mph.
Is a 48 Volt Golf Cart Better Than a 36 Volt Golf Cart?
A 48-volt golf cart is better than a 36 volt golf cart because it uses an amp that is one-third time less than that of a 36-volt golf cart which gives it more range power. However, a 36 volt cart can be converted to 48 volt cart system for improved performance.
36 Volt vs 48 Volt Golf Cart: Which Is the Most Value for Money?
A 48 volt golf cart is more expensive than a 36 volt golf cart. It is therefore, a good idea to consider buying a 36 volt golf cart if you are looking for a budget-friendly & value for money golf cart.
Is a 48V Golf Cart More Powerful Than a 36V Golf Cart?
Whilst both carts have approximately 12MPH, the 48v golf cart is more powerful because it has higher low-end torque and can move through tougher terrains.
Is a 48V Golf Cart Faster Than a 36V Golf Cart?
A 48v golf cart is faster than a 36v golf cart. With a standard speed range of about 12-14 mph and 20-24 mph when modified. The street legal 36v cart is however able to cover 35km/hr while the other is able to cover 30km/hr.
Can You Change a 36v Golf Cart to 48v?
You can change a 36v golf cart to a 48v golf cart but the expenses will be very high. To convert a 36v to 48v, you will have to make the following upgrades.
- Controller upgrade: This is the most expensive upgrade when converting a 36v to a 48v golf cart. Most series controllers are voltage range rated, like 36v and 48v. In such cases, you can use the same controller and just increase the voltage through the system. This is much cheaper.
- Battery upgrade: To convert from 36v to 48v cart, you will have to change your batteries. You can utilize four 12 v batteries or 6 eight v batteries. You will also get a new battery charger as you can’t use a 36v charger for a 48v golf cart battery.
- Motor upgrade: Ensure to check your motor rating during conversion. If it has a rating of 48v, you can leave it but if it’s less, you will also have to change it.
Check out my detailed article on 36 Volt to 48 Volt Golf Cart Conversion.
Pros & Cons of 36v vs 48v Golf Cart
The 48v golf cart is stronger and can get through tough terrains, but it is quite expensive and so is its maintenance. The 36v golf cart can easily be upgraded and maintained but lacks an increase-end end torque and can’t go through tough terrains.
Conclusion
Choosing between a 36v vs 48v golf cart depends on the needs of the user. However, the 48v golf cart is stronger and can handle tough terrains while the 36v golf cart is suitable for only plain grounds.
