Specifically regarding the E-Z-GO electrics...
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- The new 2008 models are being advertised as having a range of 60-65 miles. This is greater than the Columbia Par Car which until now has had the greatest range.
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- A new set of six batteries for a 36-volt E-Z-GO (the older models) costs about $350 and needed to be replaced every 3-5 years. I have an E-Z-GO up in Michigan that is still running just fine on 7-year old batteries.
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- Presumably the replacement cost of the eight smaller batteries in the 48-volt system will approximate the cost of replacing the six larger batteries in the 36-volt system.
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- At approximately 50-60 miles per gallon with a gas cart, with gas at $4 a gallon, an average Villages golf cart owner will spend more on gas in 3 years than a set of replacement batteries cost. (60 miles per week/60 miles per gallon=1 gallon per week X 52 X $4 = $208 per year X 3 years = $624)
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- The 2008 E-Z-GO carts employ a 48 volt regenerative system that converts DC power into AC to run the motor. It actually charges the batteries as you go down hills or brake the vehicle, presumably resulting in the significantly increased range of the new models.
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Personally, I don't think the choice of gas versus electric is a "cost thing". It's probably a "smell and noise thing" more than anything else. Try them both and see which one you find more enjoyable.