Can I Put Four 12-Volt Batteries in My 48-Volt Golf Cart?
Electric golf carts typically run on 36V, 48V, or 72V battery systems, with 48V being one of the most common configurations. Many golfers and cart owners wonder whether they can use four 12V batteries to power their 48V golf cart instead of purchasing a dedicated 48V lithium battery pack.
In this guide, we’ll explore:
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How 48V golf cart battery systems work
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Can you use four 12V batteries in series?
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Pros and cons of this setup
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Why a single 48V lithium battery (like the OKMO 48V 100Ah) is often a better choice
How a 48V Golf Cart Battery System Works
A 48V golf cart requires a battery (or battery bank) that delivers 48 volts to the motor. There are two main ways to achieve this:
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Four 12V Batteries in Series – Connecting four 12V batteries in series adds their voltages together (12V + 12V + 12V + 12V = 48V).
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A Single 48V Lithium Battery – A purpose-built lithium battery (e.g., 48V 100Ah) designed for golf carts.
Traditional lead-acid golf carts often use multiple 6V or 8V batteries wired in series, but some owners consider using 12V batteries for easier sourcing or cost savings.
Can You Use Four 12V Batteries in a 48V Golf Cart?
Yes, technically, you can. If you connect four 12V batteries in series, the total voltage will be 48V, which matches the cart’s requirements. However, there are several key factors to consider before choosing this setup:
Pros of Using Four 12V Batteries
✔ Easier to Replace – If one battery fails, you can replace just that unit instead of the whole pack.
✔ Lower Upfront Cost – 12V lead-acid batteries are often cheaper than a single 48V lithium battery.
✔ Widely Available – 12V batteries are common in auto parts stores, making replacements easier to find.
Cons of Using Four 12V Batteries
❌ Shorter Lifespan – Lead-acid batteries degrade faster than lithium, requiring replacements every 2-4 years.
❌ Heavier & Bulkier – Four 12V batteries take up more space and add significant weight.
❌ Uneven Discharge Risk – If one battery weakens, it can drag down the entire system.
❌ Lower Efficiency – Lead-acid batteries lose capacity over time, reducing range and performance.
Why a Single 48V Lithium Battery Is a Better Choice
If you want longer lifespan, better performance, and lower maintenance, a single 48V lithium battery (like the OKMO 48V 100Ah Golf Cart Battery) is the superior option. Here’s why:
✅ Longer Lifespan – Lithium batteries last 5-10 years, compared to 2-4 years for lead-acid.
✅ Lighter Weight – One compact lithium battery replaces four heavy lead-acid units.
✅ Faster Charging – Lithium charges in half the time of lead-acid.
✅ More Power & Range – Delivers consistent voltage for better acceleration and distance.
✅ Maintenance-Free – No water refilling or equalization charging needed.
Final Verdict: Should You Use Four 12V Batteries?
While using four 12V batteries in series will technically work, it’s not the best long-term solution for a 48V golf cart. The weight, maintenance, and shorter lifespan make lead-acid setups less efficient than a single 48V lithium battery.
For golfers who want maximum performance, reliability, and hassle-free operation, upgrading to a high-quality 48V lithium battery is the smarter choice.
Upgrade your golf cart today with the OKMO 48V 100Ah lithium battery—longer life, more power, and zero maintenance! 🚗⚡
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