For those shopping for a golf cart vehicle to get around, they're faced with the choice of one that runs on electricity, or one that runs on gas. What kind should you buy? Of course that all depends on how you plan to use your golf cart and what you find important. Today we'll break down the pros and cons of a gas vs electric golf cart.
Pros and Cons of Gas Golf Carts
Gas golf carts running on an internal combustion engine have been around forever. Some aspects may allow you to make a quick decision between which type of golf cart you should buy.
Pros
The classic gas golf cart has some clear advantages over their newer electric counterparts. They include the following:
- Farther range, most electrics are only designed to go about 20 to 30 miles per charge, which can also depend on terrain conditions and the age of the batteries
- Simple to maintain if a mechanic with experience
- Best if you need longer run time
- No need to recharge
- Lighter average golf cart weight
Cons
When compared to battery-powered golf carts, there are several drawbacks to gas-powered models. Among other objections, they:
- Are dirty: Emissions aside, they require you to use gasoline and engine oil to power and lubricate them, liquids that you can easily spill on your body
- Are noisy
- Need to be tuned up often
- Can be difficult to start up with the ignition switch
Pros
- Better for long distances
- Better for large hills
- No need to recharge
Cons
- Messy to use
- High maintenance
- Environmentally unfriendly
Pros and Cons of Electric Golf Carts
When electric golf carts came onto the market years ago, many people found that they hardly held a charge and weren't very powerful. That cannot be further from the truth today with all the various options available.
Pros
The good points of electric golf carts are as valid as ever. With the modern carts they include the following:
- Today's carts, 2004 and newer almost have the same strength and power, if not the same as their gas equivalents
- Zero emissions on electric carts
- No smell
- No sound
- Starts the same every time
- Smoother to drive
- 80% of carts out on golf courses are electric
- Easier to work on, less issues
Cons
One popular objection to electric is the cost of their batteries when they need to be replaced. This can cost anywhere from $500 to $700 to replace, although when compared to the routine maintenance and cost of gas, it's not too bad. Although, that cost does come all at once versus more over time.
Pros
- Environmentally friendly
- Relatively low maintenance
- Quiet and smooth drive
Cons
- Remember to recharge batteries
- Less range
- Heavy
How Does Each Golf Cart Drive?
The following YouTube video compares the differences between a gas and electric golf cart along with a driving test:
To Conclude
At the end of the day, which golf cart best serves your needs? You know better what you need when comparing your options.
In general, I'd pick the electric carts with all of the perks of having something reliable and without any smells, sounds, or emissions. With the advancements in modern electric carts there isn't a huge difference, if any, between the power either.