Golf Carts -- Gas vs Electric

[Timothy]

Have not yet invested in a golf cart but the time has come to do so. It seems most of the carts we see on the course are gas. We planned on getting an electric for charging convenience at home, noise, fumes, etc. But are rethinking our position on electric vs gas. I get that personal preference is key but I'd value any comparative input on this decision. Anyone transitioned from one to the other? Thanks in advance. Tim


ANY EXPERIENCE WITH TOMBERLIN??

[l2ridehd]

I have one of each. If I only had one cart it would be gas. Both have their pro's and con's. If buying a new cart which I will do sometime in the next year, I would buy a new gas Yamaha EFI Quiet Tech and I would buy it from Carts and Clubs in Ocala because of the better Sunbrella enclosure. I have toyed with getting a Sleekline cab, but it is an advantage only when caught in the rain which only seems to happen 3 or 4 times a year.

[Fredman]

there are pros and cons on both electric and gas carts and you are going to hear it from very vocal supporters of each. If you do go gas I would go with a Yamaha EEFI

[socrafty]

I have one of each. If I only had one cart it would be gas. Both have their pro's and con's. If buying a new cart which I will do sometime in the next year, I would buy a new gas Yamaha EFI Quiet Tech and I would buy it from Carts and Clubs in Ocala because of the better Sunbrella enclosure. I have toyed with getting a Sleekline cab, but it is an advantage only when caught in the rain which only seems to happen 3 or 4 times a year.

Ditto on all of the above! If we had to choose it would be gas because of how big The Villages is getting. Do a search on this site for gas vs electric carts. You will find many threads with a lot of different opinions on which is better. Good luck!

[fw102807]

They only had to say 8 batteries to me to decide on gas

[ColdNoMore]

Oh boy Timothy, you're certain to have touched some nerves...with this very legitimate question. :D


Ya better hang on. :popcorn:

[vintageogauge]

I never had a gas cart but I did have a Columbia Par Car for 5 years and it truly went a long way before I had to charge it. I had only one minimal problem with the car, an electrical switch which was replaced under warranty but otherwise it was perfect. That being said, 7 years have passed since I purchased that one and things I'm sure have changed. I am ready to buy another one now and inclined to stick with electric because of the smell and noise from the gas cars and don't think I would like going to a gas station in one but I have not totally made up my mind yet. Price wise I don't know if there is an advantage either way as I have not gotten that far in my search.

[fred53]

The biggest downsides to electric carts: short distance vs. gas/slower up hills/replacing batteries every so often runs into the $100's of dollars. The quietness of electric is great...the newer gas carts(yamaha for sure/not sure about Par Cars or others)are much quieter.

[billethkid]

The biggest downsides to electric carts: short distance vs. gas/slower up hills/replacing batteries every so often runs into the $100's of dollars. The quietness of electric is great...the newer gas carts(yamaha for sure/not sure about Par Cars or others)are much quieter.

For all the above reasons (batteries $700 -800 every 3 or 4 years) we switched to Yamaha EFI. There is no smell/stink with EFI (VS carbearator machines).
And the all important factor of distance concerns eliminated.

[Regor]

Check out the EZ go Elite. It comes with lithium Ion battery packs Which are guaranteed for 10 years against everything! Smooth riding, long distance ( I test drove one and at 50 miles the battery pack wasn't even down to half! I put it on the charger for 1 hour and it was almost fully charged!), This cart goes the same speed up hill and down hill about 22 mph. No parking brake. I was all set to buy one but the extra cost for the lithium batteries ( almost $5,000) drove me away. I did buy the Yamaha Quiet tech EFI, but sure wish I could have afforded the EZ Go. No gas stations, noise (yes ALL gas carts are noisy!). I also think the EZ go is smoother riding.

[graciegirl]

Gas. The carts you see sitting immobilized on the side of the paths are electric.

If you would like to read more; here is a link to the last 134 threads on this subject;

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/search.php?searchid=14241741

[vintageogauge]

For all the above reasons (batteries $700 -800 every 3 or 4 years) we switched to Yamaha EFI. There is no smell/stink with EFI (VS carbearator machines).
And the all important factor of distance concerns eliminated.

I have had 3 electric carts and none of them required batteries before 5 years including the Par Car. It averages out at todays prices $10.00 month for batteries plus whatever it costs to charge them. Not much other maintenance to worry about with them. I still might try the EFI gas units but 3 o 4 years is not the case with decent batteries, it's more like 5 to 7 years.

[ajbrown]

It is like so many questions... it depends on that what you like and more important your requirements...

There is no one answer that is right. I have never owned anything but electric and never (albeit never is a long time) will.

It is right for us, does not mean it is right for you...

If you want electric, then post again and there are things you can learn for range anxiety... and it is far from rocket science.

[bbbbbb]

[QUOTE=Timothy;1465369]Have not yet invested in a golf cart but the time has come to do so. It seems most of the carts we see on the course are gas. We planned on getting an electric for charging convenience at home, noise, fumes, etc. But are rethinking our position on electric vs gas. I get that personal preference is key but I'd value any comparative input on this decision. Anyone transitioned from one to the other?


A comment.
Well, we did a lot of shopping. I am biased because years ago in college, I converted a gas engine from a truck to run on Propane and Natural gas. I measured the emissions and wow, how clean. So with gas, consider this. You take one pound, a pint of gas, and mix it with 14 pounds of air and then combust it, and then it goes out the exhaust,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, 15 pounds of stuff, some of it very poisonous. CO2 etc. ( 8 pints in a gallon). So, we bought an Electric EZ GO from AGC carts, they are in Wildwood, they used to be near the Bone-fish Grill. Quiet, clean and very dependable. My wife plays golf with a ladies group. When they ride in our cart, they are really impressed. So do the shopping and remember, there are some good reliable Cart shops that are NOT in the Villages. IF you want the noise and the odors and the gas to breathe, well, OK. Do you hold your breath in the tunnels where it takes awhile to clear the air? Sorry, yep we are biased, very.
Go Electric.
Twice a week, we charge it for about 2 hours. Be sure to get automatic battery watering, a sunbrella, 10 inch tires, minimum, Good quality seats, and be sure the dealer will come out to your house on warranty items, AGC does that. Be sure the dealer sets the governor at 20 MPH max. Also, do your shopping, take your time. You can rent one with J and J carts, not sure if they have electrics though. Please do not reply, gear heads. And, have heard that Toberlin and Merge and Par are good too.

:sigh: :wave:

[vintageogauge]

[QUOTE=Timothy;1465369]Have not yet invested in a golf cart but the time has come to do so. It seems most of the carts we see on the course are gas. We planned on getting an electric for charging convenience at home, noise, fumes, etc. But are rethinking our position on electric vs gas. I get that personal preference is key but I'd value any comparative input on this decision. Anyone transitioned from one to the other?


A comment.
Well, we did a lot of shopping. I am biased because years ago in college, I converted a gas engine from a truck to run on Propane and Natural gas. I measured the emissions and wow, how clean. So with gas, consider this. You take one pound, a pint of gas, and mix it with 14 pounds of air and then combust it, and then it goes out the exhaust,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, 15 pounds of stuff, some of it very poisonous. CO2 etc. ( 8 pints in a gallon). So, we bought an Electric EZ GO from AGC carts, they are in Wildwood, they used to be near the Bone-fish Grill. Quiet, clean and very dependable. My wife plays golf with a ladies group. When they ride in our cart, they are really impressed. So do the shopping and remember, there are some good reliable Cart shops that are NOT in the Villages. IF you want the noise and the odors and the gas to breathe, well, OK. Do you hold your breath in the tunnels where it takes awhile to clear the air? Sorry, yep we are biased, very.
Go Electric.
Twice a week, we charge it for about 2 hours. Be sure to get automatic battery watering, a sunbrella, 10 inch tires, minimum, Good quality seats, and be sure the dealer will come out to your house on warranty items, AGC does that. Be sure the dealer sets the governor at 20 MPH max. Also, do your shopping, take your time. You can rent one with J and J carts, not sure if they have electrics though. Please do not reply, gear heads. And, have heard that Toberlin and Merge and Par are good too.

:sigh: :wave:

I guess there's no reason to debate this further, everyone will buy electric. Now the prices will go up.

[autumnspring]

Check out the EZ go Elite. It comes with lithium Ion battery packs Which are guaranteed for 10 years against everything! Smooth riding, long distance ( I test drove one and at 50 miles the battery pack wasn't even down to half! I put it on the charger for 1 hour and it was almost fully charged!), This cart goes the same speed up hill and down hill about 22 mph. No parking brake. I was all set to buy one but the extra cost for the lithium batteries ( almost $5,000) drove me away. I did buy the Yamaha Quiet tech EFI, but sure wish I could have afforded the EZ Go. No gas stations, noise (yes ALL gas carts are noisy!). I also think the EZ go is smoother riding.

I do not own an electric golf cart but have sold expensive rechargeable equipment.

Re: battery warranties.
It is usually a prorated warranty and is based on a fictitiously high LIST price. What I am trying to say is when you crunch the numbers it is far less than the stated 10 years.

On a lead acid battery the voltage falls off as the battery discharges making it easy to set up a battery gauge. As the voltage falls off so will the speed and ability to climb hills. A lithium ion battery has a flat voltage curve. So you will have the same speed and power till the end. But the end of you power comes suddenly with little advance notice.

RE: Gas
We have a 2013 fuel injected Yamaha and we use it more than our automobile. The tank when empty is 6 gallons.
We fill it about once a month when it is down 4 gallons.

[Regor]

The EZ go Elite is 10 years! No prorating. Anything wrong with the pac, it gets replaced.

[Mikeod]

One advantage to gas carts is they are always available. Had an electric cart and encountered events where the cart was needed, but had to be charged. I agree the EFI carts emit less odor.

[biker1]

I am not sure I follow the $5K difference in price. On the EZGO website, the price difference is $1700 (presumably for a minimum lithium-ion battery configuration compared with a lead-acid battery config). Some additional details would be useful. I was thinking of stopping by the golf cart store in Brownwood to take a look. Thanks.

Check out the EZ go Elite. It comes with lithium Ion battery packs Which are guaranteed for 10 years against everything! Smooth riding, long distance ( I test drove one and at 50 miles the battery pack wasn't even down to half! I put it on the charger for 1 hour and it was almost fully charged!), This cart goes the same speed up hill and down hill about 22 mph. No parking brake. I was all set to buy one but the extra cost for the lithium batteries ( almost $5,000) drove me away. I did buy the Yamaha Quiet tech EFI, but sure wish I could have afforded the EZ Go. No gas stations, noise (yes ALL gas carts are noisy!). I also think the EZ go is smoother riding.

[Regor]

The one I drove had the 120 amp (3 pacs) battery system. I think the 90 amp package would suffice. Not sure about the 60 amp. I would be interested in hearing about the range on the 60 amp. I am not in love with my Quite Tech EFI. I hate the slowing down on hills, trips to gas stations, slow acceleration and the so-so ride.

[Polar Bear]

...I hate the...trips to the gas station...
Yes, those gas station trips almost every month are a real pain. :)

[philnpat]

Because we have a case of "running out of juice anxiety", we opted for a Yamaha gas and love it.
We can make two round trips to Disney on a full tank.
So, if you see a guy driving down the turnpike in a green cart wearing mouse ears, toot and wave!

[bbbbbb]

Because we have a case of "running out of juice anxiety", we opted for a Yamaha gas and love it.
We can make two round trips to Disney on a full tank.
So, if you see a guy driving down the turnpike in a green cart wearing mouse ears, toot and wave!

Gas vs Electric. Well, we hear of the limited miles to drive with Electric. OK, so fully charged, 2 hours of charge is about $1.80 according to SECO. So, we take off to the Farmers Market in Brownwood, then go to Colony Rec Center and then to the shopping center near Colony. Then to Laurel Manor Rec center, then to the Polo Grounds, then to Ace Hardware near the shopping center, then to Buffalo retirement, then to Churchill and then to Pimlico and 9 holes of golf and then to The Red Lobster.. Then we go home near Sumter Landing. OK, we are home and the power gauge is down to ALMOST HALF Gee, is that something to worry about? Guess we need to panic over that gauge down to a bit over half?
Now, on the reliability of those who seem to be so popular and stalled along the road? Well I would like to see the statistics and the superb monitoring ability and the documentation of someone who while driving along the MMP can see that the stalled cart is Electric. Is that because there are no poisonous odors nearby?
bbbbbb :wave:

[Regor]

Yes, those gas station trips almost every month are a real pain. :)

How about every 5 to 8 days? sometimes more often. We use our cart a lot.

[Regor]

Gas. The carts you see sitting immobilized on the side of the paths are electric.

If you would like to read more; here is a link to the last 134 threads on this subject;

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/search.php?searchid=14241741

I have owned 3 electric carts and 3 gas carts. Have never had
an electric cart towed, Have had the gas carts towed twice.

[Polar Bear]

How about every 5 to 8 days? sometimes more often. We use our cart a lot.
I thought we used our cart a lot too. You must use your cart...well...a LOT!!!

I play golf a couple times a week. It's the 2nd vehicle for me and my wife. It's out of the garage every day, usually more than once. We've filled up 7 times since mid-April. And to be fair, we're about to fill up again. So 8 times in 6 months.

By my very rough calcs, it sounds like you drive your cart over 150 miles every week? Really!!??!!

[Bay Kid]

I will put 150 to 200 miles a week. I do like to travel TVs! I like the gas, Dad and Mom prefer the quiet of electric.

[Regor]

I thought we used our cart a lot too. You must use your cart...well...a LOT!!!

I play golf a couple times a week. It's the 2nd vehicle for me and my wife. It's out of the garage every day, usually more than once. We've filled up 7 times since mid-April. And to be fair, we're about to fill up again. So 8 times in 6 months.

By my very rough calcs, it sounds like you drive your cart over 150 miles every week? Really!!??!!

Yup

[Polar Bear]

I stand corrected. I guess I don't use my cart a lot...at least compared to some of you maniacs!! ;)

[tuccillo]

$1.80 for 2 hours of charge sounds too high. Assuming you are using a 20 amp circuit, the most you can draw is 2.4 kW per hour. At approximately 13 cents per kWh, the cost shouldn't be higher than about 60 cents (and probably less since you won't draw 20 amps). That should get you about 25 miles.


Gas vs Electric. Well, we hear of the limited miles to drive with Electric. OK, so fully charged, 2 hours of charge is about $1.80 according to SECO. So, we take off to the Farmers Market in Brownwood, then go to Colony Rec Center and then to the shopping center near Colony. Then to Laurel Manor Rec center, then to the Polo Grounds, then to Ace Hardware near the shopping center, then to Buffalo retirement, then to Churchill and then to Pimlico and 9 holes of golf and then to The Red Lobster.. Then we go home near Sumter Landing. OK, we are home and the power gauge is down to ALMOST HALF Gee, is that something to worry about? Guess we need to panic over that gauge down to a bit over half?
Now, on the reliability of those who seem to be so popular and stalled along the road? Well I would like to see the statistics and the superb monitoring ability and the documentation of someone who while driving along the MMP can see that the stalled cart is Electric. Is that because there are no poisonous odors nearby?
bbbbbb :wave:

[vintageogauge]

I think I'm going back to the electric Par Car. They get up to speed rather quickly and going 5 years with virtually no problems with my first one is weighing heavily on my decision. All my life I've been storing gas in my garage for various pieces of equipment and I never liked filling the containers, now I can eliminate doing that. I really don't see the need to have a gas golf car and that is strictly a personal feeling, not disagreeing with anyone on here.

[Topspinmo]

I've had both, each preformed great. You have to decide what you plan on using the cart for and how long in day. If you live in central location electric works fine. But it does cost and if does put out odor when charging and charging not free or green, some where coal being burned or radioactive wastes being used to produce electric, then, there the disposal of all the hazardous batteries.

Over time the batteries will have to be replaced, once the batteries get some age on Them they may produce more liquid fog when charging which coats the cart and garage floor. It eats up metal, wiring, and concrete floors. Now you you have fight corrosion. Now if you can afford to replace the cart ever 3 or 4 years you can avoid the long term care of cart. But, (always a but) electric cart normally don't hold trade in value due to all the problem mentioned above???

Now gas; gas also come with price mainly gas and oil changes. For the first few years they run fine, then wear starts to take toll especially if you didn't change the oil enough. Now you got oil burner and leaker form lack of oil changes and overheating which harder seals. Now you have to check the oil weekly or less and add oil. If your forgetful and run it out or very low on oil you will start hearing hammering clanking sound which basically means engine about to give up the connecting rod. If your avid pre-maintainer gas engine will last and last and last. I have never worn out gas engine.

So both have there advantages and disadvantages. Pick your poison?

[tophcfa]

Easy answer, Gas. Why? Because nobody sells a diesel.

[ajbrown]

Over time the batteries will have to be replaced, once the batteries get some age on Them they may produce more liquid fog when charging which coats the cart and garage floor. It eats up metal, wiring, and concrete floors. Now you you have fight corrosion. Now if you can afford to replace the cart ever 3 or 4 years you can avoid the long term care of cart.

Obviously batteries have to be replaced, but the rest of that paragraph leaves me at a loss for a rebuttal :shrug:

[Topspinmo]

Obviously batteries have to be replaced, but the rest of that paragraph leaves me at a loss for a rebuttal :shrug:

From the previous owner I have the spot on the garage floor. Now for those who maintain the problems are minimum. But, lead acid batteries eventually causes corrosion, weaker the get more sulfuric acid H2SO4 vapor they produce. Which they release sulfuric acid, hydrogen, and sulfur dioxide. IMO when charging in garage there should be vent to alow fresh air while charging, window or garage door open some for vent if your smelling sulfur.

[David73]

Do a little history research. There have been numerous fires caused by charging batteries in enclosed garages. People will say I don't want a gas cart in my garage. So what are they doing with their cars? Golf cart barns on golf courses have burned down for the same reasons. BTW... Been here over 16 years so I know of what I speak.

[vintageogauge]

Do a little history research. There have been numerous fires caused by charging batteries in enclosed garages. People will say I don't want a gas cart in my garage. So what are they doing with their cars? Golf cart barns on golf courses have burned down for the same reasons. BTW... Been here over 16 years so I know of what I speak.

I just don't want to have to have a can of gas i my garage in case I'm running low and can't get to a gas station. I don't think I would like going to the gas station with a golf car either. I do like the simplicity of an electric cart, what could be easier.

[Regor]

Like I said earlier, check out the Ez Go Elite Lithium Ion carts. No gas, fumes, water, oil, noise, parking brake, belts ..... etc. These are the same type of battery packs that are used in hybrid and electric cars. Completely warranted for 10 years with full replacement. 90 - 100 miles between charges for the 120 amp pack.

[tuccillo]

I was reading about the EZGO lithium-ion golf carts on the EZGO webpage and it states a 5 year warranty. Is that only for golf course fleets and individual buyers would have a longer 10-year warranty (presumably because of less use)?

Like I said earlier, check out the Ez Go Elite Lithium Ion carts. No gas, fumes, water, oil, noise, parking brake, belts ..... etc. These are the same type of battery packs that are used in hybrid and electric cars. Completely warranted for 10 years with full replacement. 90 - 100 miles between charges for the 120 amp pack.

[Regor]

Ooops, You are correct. 5 years! I stand corrected. It was about 4 months ago I drove one. My research on that type of battery pack said they should last around 8 - 10 years.

[bbbbbb]

$1.80 for 2 hours of charge sounds too high. Assuming you are using a 20 amp circuit, the most you can draw is 2.4 kW per hour. At approximately 13 cents per kWh, the cost shouldn't be higher than about 60 cents (and probably less since you won't draw 20 amps). That should get you about 25 miles.

We gave the model number on our Charger, to the SECO tech and he said our charger would run at about 75 to 90 Cents an hour maximum. You could be right at 60 so I can see where the SECO rep would quote a bit higher in order to be safe and not be criticized by the gear heads who prefer gas. Either way, whether it is 60 or 70 or 90 is no problem to me. No fumes, no gas cans no trips to get gas, just come home, plug in that little jewel, charge it and grab the automatic watering can afterwards and it is SO convenient, awesome, quiet and we love our EZGO for sure.
I have a wire shelf on the wall, by the plug, the water jug with hose is there, it is so easy to hook up the quick disconnect for the automatic filler. No problem and always after the cart is cool and charged. Thanks
bbbbbb
:ho:

[tuccillo]

I believe the way most chargers work is they draw more amps when first plugged and then it ramps down with time. My estimate of 60 cents is probably too high by a factor of 2. 60 cents would represent drawing 20 amps for 2 hours (which is not what actually happens). A good rule of thumb for electric golf carts is they use 2 cents of electricity for each mile you travel. YMMV.

We gave the model number on our Charger, to the SECO tech and he said our charger would run at about 75 to 90 Cents an hour maximum. You could be right at 60 so I can see where the SECO rep would quote a bit higher in order to be safe and not be criticized by the gear heads who prefer gas. Either way, whether it is 60 or 70 or 90 is no problem to me. No fumes, no gas cans no trips to get gas, just come home, plug in that little jewel, charge it and grab the automatic watering can afterwards and it is SO convenient, awesome, quiet and we love our EZGO for sure.
I have a wire shelf on the wall, by the plug, the water jug with hose is there, it is so easy to hook up the quick disconnect for the automatic filler. No problem and always after the cart is cool and charged. Thanks
bbbbbb
:ho:

[ajbrown]

Like I said earlier, check out the Ez Go Elite Lithium Ion carts. No gas, fumes, water, oil, noise, parking brake, belts ..... etc. These are the same type of battery packs that are used in hybrid and electric cars. Completely warranted for 10 years with full replacement. 90 - 100 miles between charges for the 120 amp pack.

Lithium is a compelling story for electric carts, but I never can get past the cost. Last time I looked (minimal research) I could buy 5 sets of 8-T105 packs for the same price as one set ( 4 12v) of lithium (close to $5k). That should change at some point I would think, maybe it even has since I last looked?

[Topspinmo]

I just don't want to have to have a can of gas i my garage in case I'm running low and can't get to a gas station. I don't think I would like going to the gas station with a golf car either. I do like the simplicity of an electric cart, what could be easier.


Again whether you own gas or electric you still have to do pre operation inspections once in awhile. Both can be ticking time bomb or an inferno mostly after years of use. With routine maintenance done by company or yourself if you have the skills Very High percentage nothing will happen without spotting something first. If you feel comfortable with electric why change?

[tuccillo]

It looks like you are Fenney? If so, electric would make more sense since it could be a bit of time before you could ride to a gas station. Going to a gas station in a golf cart is not a big deal: pull up, lift the seat, put in some gas, and go. We are pretty close to a Marathon station plus we only go there once every 3 weeks or so.

I just don't want to have to have a can of gas i my garage in case I'm running low and can't get to a gas station. I don't think I would like going to the gas station with a golf car either. I do like the simplicity of an electric cart, what could be easier.

[Polar Bear]

...I do like the simplicity of an electric cart, what could be easier.
I’m not a militant in either camp...heheh. But substitute ‘gas’ for ‘electric’ and that’s exactly what I say about our cart. :)

[vintageogauge]

It looks like you are Fenney? If so, electric would make more sense since it could be a bit of time before you could ride to a gas station. Going to a gas station in a golf cart is not a big deal: pull up, lift the seat, put in some gas, and go. We are pretty close to a Marathon station plus we only go there once every 3 weeks or so.

I am in Fenney however the lack of accessible gas stations down here is not the reason I would at this point prefer electric and as a matter of fact most of the ones running around down here are gas. In thinking about it, there really aren't all that many gas stations south of 466 and there is a lot of dead space between them so many people have a long ride to get to one. I have always found the electrics to be simple and pretty much maintenance free other than charging and water. I used to like working on cars and tractors, etc., but over the last several years I gave up on doing all that. Just a personal thing I guess. I'm going to do a little research on the lithium batteries.

[Timothy]

Thanks to all for your responses. After much deliberation and research I've decided on the Tomberlin (electric). Will let you know how it goes. Tim

[photo1902]

I am in Fenney however the lack of accessible gas stations down here is not the reason I would at this point prefer electric and as a matter of fact most of the ones running around down here are gas. In thinking about it, there really aren't all that many gas stations south of 466 and there is a lot of dead space between them so many people have a long ride to get to one. I have always found the electrics to be simple and pretty much maintenance free other than charging and water. I used to like working on cars and tractors, etc., but over the last several years I gave up on doing all that. Just a personal thing I guess. I'm going to do a little research on the lithium batteries.

There are 4 (soon to be 5) locations to get gas for your cart "down south". The cart store at Brownwood, the Colony Shell, the new Walmart Neighborhood Market gas pumps, and the Marathon at Pinellas Plaza. There's also another Marathon at Lake Deaton Plaza which will be opening soon. How many more do you want?

[vintageogauge]

There are 4 (soon to be 5) locations to get gas for your cart "down south". The cart store at Brownwood, the Colony Shell, the new Walmart Neighborhood Market gas pumps, and the Marathon at Pinellas Plaza. There's also another Marathon at Lake Deaton Plaza which will be opening soon. How many more do you want?
If you happen to be in the center between Colony and Brownwood Square or farther north, you only have Pinellas Plaza. Walmart is just across from the Shell so they service the same area and I would count them as one. So currently there are 3 places to get gas accessible by golf car and there are one heck of a lot of golf cars down south.

[vintageogauge]

Thanks to all for your responses. After much deliberation and research I've decided on the Tomberlin (electric). Will let you know how it goes. Tim

Tim. Please do keep us advised as Timberline is one on top of my list and I would really like to know what you think about it. I would be getting the 4 seater model if I go with them.

[Jf6865]

We will be renting next March and it comes with an electric cart. We were thinking of renting a gas cart. How many miles can you typically go with an electric cart?

[Fredman]

Depends on the age of the batteries

[Topspinmo]

We will be renting next March and it comes with an electric cart. We were thinking of renting a gas cart. How many miles can you typically go with an electric cart?

Club car 48 volt with 3 year old batteries could easily go 40 to maybe 60 miles on charge. But around 40 I was getting battery remorse and weak uphill pulls

[Steve9930]

You could debate this all day long and the decision in the end will be yours based on your needs and $$. If you do not want to worry about how far you are driving and will you have enough range to get there, buy a Gas Cart. If your not traveling that far buy an Electric Cart. As for the pollution aspect ask yourself this: How do you think that electricity you used to charge your cart was generated? It did not magically appear. Every time you transfer energy from one type to another there is an inefficiency part of the conversion. I have an electric cart because it will travel as far as I need it to travel. Its 14 years old and on the 3rd set of batteries. Also at the time Gas Carts just stank as they burned the fuel. I do not smell the new ones like the old technology. Then here is the $$ value. How much do you spend on a cart before its better to just buy another car? Don't over think this.

[TechGC]

Club car 48 volt with 3 year old batteries could easily go 40 to maybe 60 miles on charge. But around 40 I was getting battery remorse and weak uphill pulls


May want to double check those ranges. 3 year batteries are not going 40 miles unless the cart is on the back of a truck.

The rule of thumb is 40 miles when the batteries are new and start to lose range from there.
Now before I get jumped there are a lot of things considered when it comes to range.
Its all math really, you have so much stored power, and the cart uses so much power to run.

[Steve9930]

May want to double check those ranges. 3 year batteries are not going 40 miles unless the cart is on the back of a truck.

The rule of thumb is 40 miles when the batteries are new and start to lose range from there.
Now before I get jumped there are a lot of things considered when it comes to range.
Its all math really, you have so much stored power, and the cart uses so much power to run.

Yep, on target. How much weight yo hauling, how fast are you driving, tires properly inflated, etc, etc, etc. Even with brand new batteries I 'm no sure I'd count on 40 miles.

[Timothy]

I was the OP and I chose the Tomberlin electric. Though it has only been two weeks since its delivery I have tried to find the reasonable dying point of a full charge. We are north of 466 and have travelled to all three squares including some at night with lights on and side trips in between and have yet to approach depletion of a full charge. Surely battery performance diminishes with age (happens to the best of us) but I truly cannot imagine ever being at risk of being stranded so long as I am as mindful of charge status as one would be of a fuel gauge. Fortunately a great feature on the Tomberlin is an integrated charger so if we ever do need a little extra juice on the road all we need is a standard three prong outlet. Lets face it, this is not a long term investment so replacing batteries is well worth the overall convenience and cleanliness of electric. Regarding the cart itself acceleration from a dead stop to top speed is seemingly instant. The cart looks good, my cart enclosure smells good (as does my garage), I hear my music clearly, and it is a nice responsive ride. Oh yeah, many features standard include four wheel brakes, seat belts, self-cancelling turn signals, auto parking brake, lights aplenty, et al. Admittedly it is early in our experience, but we did a lot of research, so far so good, and I wouldn't change my decision given the chance. Tim

[MrPelota]

Tim: Thanks for a great thread....some really good advice here. Would you mind sharing where you bought your Tomberlin?

[Timothy]

Columbia Par Car / Tomberlin on 441/27. They have a manufacturing facility in Leesburg.

[Barefoot]

We are transitioning on the weekend from electric to gas.
We are buying a gas Yamaha Quietech Yesteryear golf cart from Villages Golfcarts.
I hope it lives up to the promise of being quiet and fume free.

Do a little history research. There have been numerous fires caused by charging batteries in enclosed garages.
Fireboy has a passion for remote-control aircraft.
We had a garage fire in January as a result of FB charging a battery for one of his remote-controlled airplanes.

[TechGC]

I hope it lives up to the promise of being quiet and fume free.



Its not fume free

[Steve9930]

We are transitioning on the weekend from electric to gas.
We are buying a gas Yamaha Quietech Yesteryear golf cart from Villages Golfcarts.
I hope it lives up to the promise of being quiet and fume free.


Fireboy has a passion for remote-control aircraft.
We had a garage fire in January as a result of FB charging a battery for one of his remote-controlled airplanes.

Fires are a problem with those fancy Lithium Batteries. You must be extremely careful and do not over charge. They are spectacular when they fail.

[Steve9930]

I was the OP and I chose the Tomberlin electric. Though it has only been two weeks since its delivery I have tried to find the reasonable dying point of a full charge. We are north of 466 and have travelled to all three squares including some at night with lights on and side trips in between and have yet to approach depletion of a full charge. Surely battery performance diminishes with age (happens to the best of us) but I truly cannot imagine ever being at risk of being stranded so long as I am as mindful of charge status as one would be of a fuel gauge. Fortunately a great feature on the Tomberlin is an integrated charger so if we ever do need a little extra juice on the road all we need is a standard three prong outlet. Lets face it, this is not a long term investment so replacing batteries is well worth the overall convenience and cleanliness of electric. Regarding the cart itself acceleration from a dead stop to top speed is seemingly instant. The cart looks good, my cart enclosure smells good (as does my garage), I hear my music clearly, and it is a nice responsive ride. Oh yeah, many features standard include four wheel brakes, seat belts, self-cancelling turn signals, auto parking brake, lights aplenty, et al. Admittedly it is early in our experience, but we did a lot of research, so far so good, and I wouldn't change my decision given the chance. Tim

Sounds like a winner. They do make a good cart at a reasonable price. You'll enjoy it.

[graciegirl]

Its not fume free


It is important to some of us to know that when we get into our cart to go places that it won't quit on us. Gas is more dependable.

[Barefoot]

Its not fume free
Do you have a new Yamaha QuieTech? I'm hoping that it's almost fume free.

[Nucky]

Do you have a new Yamaha QuieTech? I'm hoping that it's almost fume free.

You will be

happier than a

clam at high

tide. Phenomenal Choice.

Lobster High Tide. :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[doran]

Columbia Par Car electric rules.

[Barefoot]

You will be

happier than a

clam at high

tide. Phenomenal Choice.
Thank you Nucky; good to hear. :highfive:

[coffeebean]

Oops. Double post....deleted.

[coffeebean]

The biggest downsides to electric carts: short distance vs. gas/slower up hills/replacing batteries every so often runs into the $100's of dollars. The quietness of electric is great...the newer gas carts(yamaha for sure/not sure about Par Cars or others)are much quieter.

I had a 2017 Yamaha Quiet Tech as a loaner when I had the annual service done on my 2016 Yamaha electric. I had a strong odor of gas in my garage after parking the gas cart. I don't have those air vents in my garage so maybe that is why the odor of gas did not dissipate.

Driving the loaner cart, I found it has a very slow sluggish acceleration vs the very rapid acceleration in my electric cart. I felt as though I was driving a Fred Flintstone vehicle in the 2017 Quiet Tech. It is just too sluggish of a start for me. My sister also has a 2017 Yamaha Quiet Tech and it accelerates the same way as my loaner.

As far as an electric cart going slower up hills; my electric Yamaha has an AC motor so it takes the hills just fine. I see maybe a .2 mph slow down going up hill. That isn't noticeable at all.

I don't play golf so I do understand the rationale for owning a gas cart now that The Villages is expanding. To be honest, if I had to travel really far to get from one end of The Villages to the other end, I would gladly take the car. But...as I said, I don't play golf.

[coffeebean]

For all the above reasons (batteries $700 -800 every 3 or 4 years) we switched to Yamaha EFI. There is no smell/stink with EFI (VS carbearator machines).
And the all important factor of distance concerns eliminated.

I will gladly pay the price for new batteries when ever needed. To me, that is the price I am willing to pay for a smooth quiet ride with no odor. My sister has a 2017 Yamaha Quiet Tech gas cart and it does have an odor of gas. I smell it every time she leaves my driveway when I wave good bye to her.

[coffeebean]

[QUOTE=Topspinmo;1466565]....... it does cost and if does put out odor when charging ........

.......Over time the batteries will have to be replaced, once the batteries get some age on Them they may produce more liquid fog when charging which coats the cart and garage floor. It eats up metal, wiring, and concrete floors. Now you you have fight corrosion. [QUOTE]

Our 2016 electric Yamaha does not make any odor when charging. I have never heard of liquid fog when charging batteries. Does this happen on the newer electric carts? I had no idea this would be a problem. Yikes!

[coffeebean]

From the previous owner I have the spot on the garage floor. Now for those who maintain the problems are minimum. But, lead acid batteries eventually causes corrosion, weaker the get more sulfuric acid H2SO4 vapor they produce. Which they release sulfuric acid, hydrogen, and sulfur dioxide. IMO when charging in garage there should be vent to alow fresh air while charging, window or garage door open some for vent if your smelling sulfur.

Are the garage door vents enough to prevent problems when charging batteries? I don't have any vents but will consider putting them in the garage door if necessary.

[MorTech]

Gasoline carts suck in every way except for range and "charge" time.

gas - 200 miles on a 3 minute "charge"
electric - charges at about 6 miles per hour...30 miles will require a 5 hour charge

Rohan Rec to Mulberry Grove Rec is 15 miles

Just the savings in fuel (gas is 4 cents per mile more over electric) and extra maintenance costs (only maintenance on electric cart - $3.00 per year for distilled water) will pay for a new set of batteries after 3 years (assuming 10 miles per day)...And the batteries will easily last 5 years if you keep them fully charged and water them monthly. I will race any gas cart up a hill. While your cart is bleating away, I will be at the top will gobs of torque and perfect silence. ALWAYS go for a cart with an AC motor!

If I were to buy a cart today, I would go with the Tomberlin LE. You will have 70 miles of range every time you leave your house and like me, will never even bother to look at the fuel gauge. Tomberlin will be much cheaper than the Yamaha AC from the villages or C&C

[Uberschaf]

As the world turns to electric vehicles as ways to slow down the warming cycle, we as villagers turn our backs on the rest of the world and buy gas carts with no emission control. I would assume there are 30k (mol) gas carts out on the village golf paths. Many bought for the reason of convenience and everybody else has them so why not. I would assume they don't care about global warming, like not recycling or not returning shopping bags back to the store or littering the golf cart paths with booze bottles and dog poop bags.
I can understand buying a gas cart when you first move here as it's great fun to see the villages by cart. I even advise my new neighbors to buy gas. After a couple of years why not buy a electric cart and see the villages in a different light. One with a quiet and refreshing atmosphere. Being able to talk on your phone (through bluetooth radio) . Carry on a quiet conversation with your passenger, or just smell the fresh air. How about listening to the stereo and not having turned up to 11.
Electric carts do not catch on fire for no reason they catch fire from lack of maintenance, dry cells, loose connections or not using distilled water for refilling. Newer carts have Smart Chargers that run algorithms for the batteries you have installed. They can desulfate batteries and recharge them due to their loss of charge.

[graciegirl]

Are the garage door vents enough to prevent problems when charging batteries? I don't have any vents but will consider putting them in the garage door if necessary.

If you put in vents in the garage door, you then make it hurricane in- effective.

[graciegirl]

As the world turns to electric vehicles as ways to slow down the warming cycle, we as villagers turn our backs on the rest of the world and buy gas carts with no emission control. I would assume there are 30k (mol) gas carts out on the village golf paths. Many bought for the reason of convenience and everybody else has them so why not. I would assume they don't care about global warming, like not recycling or not returning shopping bags back to the store or littering the golf cart paths with booze bottles and dog poop bags.
I can understand buying a gas cart when you first move here as it's great fun to see the villages by cart. I even advise my new neighbors to buy gas. After a couple of years why not buy a electric cart and see the villages in a different light. One with a quiet and refreshing atmosphere. Being able to talk on your phone (through bluetooth radio) . Carry on a quiet conversation with your passenger, or just smell the fresh air. How about listening to the stereo and not having turned up to 11.
[COLOR="Magenta"]Electric carts do not catch on fire for no reason they catch fire from lack of maintenance, dry cells, loose connections or not using distilled water for refilling. Newer carts have Smart Chargers that run algorithms for the batteries you have installed. They can desulfate batteries and recharge them due to their loss of charge.



Gas carts just don't "catch on fire". I think they are safer to own and as I get older and it becomes more difficult to walk home, I like my gas cart all the better.

[Polar Bear]

As the world turns to electric vehicles as ways to slow down the warming cycle, we as villagers turn our backs on the rest of the world and buy gas carts with no emission control...

...they don't care about global warming...

Electric carts do not catch on fire for no reason they catch fire from lack of maintenance, dry cells, loose connections or not using distilled water for refilling

Oh pullease.

Buy an electric cart or buy a gas cart. They both have their advantages. But don't make your decision based on this typical and false propaganda.

Yeah...electricity just appears in your wall magically. That's what so great about it. Who can argue with that?!?

At least there was one bit of accurate information in the post...electric carts catch fire for a lot of reasons, including some not listed.

Again, buy gas or electric. But do it for your own personal reasons. Don't be fooled into thinking you're going to save the world.

[TechGC]

Ill jump in here from the repair aspect.
As someone stated, the argument of which is better will never end, both have there pluses and minuses for the job they are asked to do.

From a maintenance stand point, I'm glad to see the villages go gas, as more profit is made on a gas cart over an electric, sorry folks, I know you gas guys will jump all over me for it and say how your cart hasn't needed any work. Electric owners will say the same thing.
I can look at what comes through the shop and the profit per cart.

[graciegirl]

Ill jump in here from the repair aspect.
As someone stated, the argument of which is better will never end, both have there pluses and minuses for the job they are asked to do.

From a maintenance stand point, I'm glad to see the villages go gas, as more profit is made on a gas cart over an electric, sorry folks, I know you gas guys will jump all over me for it and say how your cart hasn't needed any work. Electric owners will say the same thing.
I can look at what comes through the shop and the profit per cart.

You repair carts?

[TechGC]

You repair carts?



Yes. I personally work on 8-10 carts a day

[coffeebean]

Yes. I personally work on 8-10 carts a day

Hello TechGC...I have an electric cart and I'm becoming concerned about the batteries starting a fire when they are being charged. I didn't realize this was a problem before I purchased my electric Yamaha 2016 cart.

What actually causes the fires? Is it the batteries that actually start the fire or is it usually the battery charger?

How dangerous is it to not have ventilation in the garage when charging? I know these garages are not completely sealed of air flow but is that enough without a window open or vents put in the garage door?

[TechGC]

Hello TechGC...I have an electric cart and I'm becoming concerned about the batteries starting a fire when they are being charged. I didn't realize this was a problem before I purchased my electric Yamaha 2016 cart.

What actually causes the fires? Is it the batteries that actually start the fire or is it usually the battery charger?

How dangerous is it to not have ventilation in the garage when charging? I know these garages are not completely sealed of air flow but is that enough without a window open or vents put in the garage door?

Great question.

20 years ago, many golf course barns would burn to the ground, issue then was the charger plugs and plug ins would break internally catch the plug on fire, then catch the seat on fire and the rest of the barn.
The manufacturers remedied all of that and you don't see it now a days.

Ive heard about the fires here in the villages. There are many safety factors built into the vehicles now. Fuses, circuit breakers and way better charger plugs.
Problem is not everyone uses OEM repair parts and its these lesser parts that are melting and causing issues. I cant count how many aftermarket charge receptacle plugs or cords have to be changed back out due to being melted. The internet can be a great thing but one must be careful, a cheaper price may not always be the best thing.
Your 2016 cart will be fine.

Proper ventilation is a plus during the charge process.

[MorTech]

Battery Fires? About 30% of carts in the Villages are electric. You Would have heard A LOT about this if it was a problem. I don't ventilate my garage at all.

Your 2016 Yamaha will be just fine if you charge it every night and keep the batteries properly watered with distilled water. Do you have a single-point watering system? You should water the batteries every 2 months...I water mine on the 1st of every month just so I don't forget. It takes about 1 quart per month and I use my cart at least 6 miles everyday. With the single-point system it takes about 4 minutes to water all the batteries. About as easy and time consuming as pumping gas into a cart tank.

[MorTech]

The EZGO Elite lithium carts with the 120ah pack has a range of about 55 miles.
The villages carts wants $15K but you can get a base one anywhere else for about $11.5K

Too pricey for me...Still.

[graciegirl]

Battery Fires? About 30% of carts in the Villages are electric. You Would have heard A LOT about this if it was a problem. I don't ventilate my garage at all.

Your 2016 Yamaha will be just fine if you charge it every night and keep the batteries properly watered with distilled water. Do you have a single-point watering system? You should water the batteries every 2 months...I water mine on the 1st of every month just so I don't forget. It takes about 1 quart per month and I use my cart at least 6 miles everyday. With the single-point system it takes about 4 minutes to water all the batteries. About as easy and time consuming as pumping gas into a cart tank.

If you have lived here for five plus years you WOULD have heard about it. Ask a fireman/ fireperson......whatever.

Type in "Garage Fire" in search above.

[Hacker1]

Battery Fires? About 30% of carts in the Villages are electric. You Would have heard A LOT about this if it was a problem. I don't ventilate my garage at all.

Your 2016 Yamaha will be just fine if you charge it every night and keep the batteries properly watered with distilled water. Do you have a single-point watering system? You should water the batteries every 2 months...I water mine on the 1st of every month just so I don't forget. It takes about 1 quart per month and I use my cart at least 6 miles everyday. With the single-point system it takes about 4 minutes to water all the batteries. About as easy and time consuming as pumping gas into a cart tank.

Interesting.. We have a 2010 Star Cart.. 8 6-volt batteries. Have had it 7 years. Batteries replaced once, one year ago - our original set lasted 6 years (almost 7, as cart was nearly a year old when we bought it). We use it more than our car, and have never been stalled or had to be towed. I also have the single point watering system; I water about once or twice a month, each time takes less than a minute, and I use only about a gallon or so a year of distilled water. We use the cart almost every day, and charge overnight every night. We have never experienced any fumes or corrosion, or stains on our garage floor.

[MorTech]

I included setup/takedown start to finish in my 4 minute calculation...Takes less than a minute to actually pump the water.
My water usage is more like 2 quarts every 3 months but a gallon a year in a 8x6V system is really good.

I reckon I use my cart 10 miles everyday on average...Between 6 and 22 miles...Almost never more than 25 miles.

[coffeebean]

Battery Fires? About 30% of carts in the Villages are electric. You Would have heard A LOT about this if it was a problem. I don't ventilate my garage at all.

Your 2016 Yamaha will be just fine if you charge it every night and keep the batteries properly watered with distilled water. Do you have a single-point watering system? You should water the batteries every 2 months...I water mine on the 1st of every month just so I don't forget. It takes about 1 quart per month and I use my cart at least 6 miles everyday. With the single-point system it takes about 4 minutes to water all the batteries. About as easy and time consuming as pumping gas into a cart tank.
We have a watering system that connects with a "quick connect" valve and all the batteries get filled at once with a closed system. I fill the batteries with distilled water about every two weeks and it only takes about 10 seconds each time to top off the water. I don't drive the cart very much as I don't play golf. I guess that is why it doesn't need too much water to top it off.

I also don't charge the batteries every night. I charge them about once a week. Is there a reason why I should charge the batteries every night? I put very little mileage on the cart on a daily basis. Thanks for the info.

[autumnspring]

How about every 5 to 8 days? sometimes more often. We use our cart a lot.

The gas yamaha has a 6.5 gallon tank. It gets 40 miles per gallon at proper speed of 20 miles per hour. It is two hours a gallon.

I would not run the tank all the way down but you are reporting that you drive 12 hours in five days. Or 240 miles in five days. Or 2.4 hours a day.

[dadspet]

It's interesting how the "Healthiest town in US" (by someone definition) is in the opposite direction to rest of the US (and world) with autos moving to Electric. I guess the older we get many don't mind the pollution, smell, noise or jerking of gas carts (EFI carts included). It must be that wonderful smell that fills the tunnels that is actually healthy for you.
As you might guess I've had an electric cart since 2007 and never been towed and will probably replace it with another electric cart. I guess I don't subscribe to The argument "As The Villages get larger you need a gas cart to get from one end to the other" since if I can't get there by cart in under 50 minutes I have no desire to go by cart. BTW I sure hope all those electric auto owners are avoiding the fire hazard by not parking them in their garage.

[aloisbaughn2133]

No way I could suffer a noisy, stinky, jerky smudgepot gas cart. I bought a Par Car simply because of the 60+ mile range but it may have been overkill. I live on the Glenview course and I don't travel any farther that 466A, not because the cart won't go all the way to Fenney and back, but it would simply be a long long uncomfortable ride. My original research concluded that after Par Car, the next best electric is EZ Go.

[Polar Bear]

It's interesting how the "Healthiest town in US" (by someone definition) is in the opposite direction to rest of the US (and world) with autos moving to Electric. I guess the older we get many don't mind the pollution, smell, noise or jerking of gas carts (EFI carts included). It must be that wonderful smell that fills the tunnels that is actually healthy for you.
As you might guess I've had an electric cart since 2007 and never been towed and will probably replace it with another electric cart. I guess I don't subscribe to The argument "As The Villages get larger you need a gas cart to get from one end to the other" since if I can't get there by cart in under 50 minutes I have no desire to go by cart. BTW I sure hope all those electric auto owners are avoiding the fire hazard by not parking them in their garage.
My favorite posts are such as these...such an open mind and such a firm grasp on all the "facts" that fit a particular point of view.

[Bay Kid]

I have 2 gas carts and now a Yamaha battery cart for Mom and Dad. I spent the past week, or more, breaking in new batteries. I do enjoy the semi quiet ride of the battery cart, but I haven't enjoyed the daily chores of the batteries. I won't give up my gas carts, but Mom will enjoy the battery cart. To each their own. Enjoy the ride!

[Polar Bear]

No way I could suffer a noisy, stinky, jerky smudgepot gas cart...
Neither could I!!

But the gas cart I have is just fine.

[dadspet]

I have 2 gas carts and now a Yamaha battery cart for Mom and Dad. I spent the past week, or more, breaking in new batteries. I do enjoy the semi quiet ride of the battery cart, but I haven't enjoyed the daily chores of the batteries. I won't give up my gas carts, but Mom will enjoy the battery cart. To each their own. Enjoy the ride!

I've had a electric cart for about 10 and 2 sets of batteries but never has anyone mentioned breaking in batteries or any daily chore other than plugging in the cart to change the batteries. I check the water about 1st per month and wish I had a auto water system but other than that there is no Breakin or maintenance

[vintageogauge]

I broke down and bought a new Yamaha. I'm not pleased with the noise and odors it makes vs my last Par Car however, I am starting to like the fact that I don't have to do anything to it when I use it, just get in and go, come back and turn it off. I'm still not sold completely on it (my wife was in favor of the gas and as usual she won) but at this point I guess I'll have to get used to it. It's nice now that they sell gas in Fenney, don't have to keep a jug full in the garage.

[photo1902]

:bigbow:Oh pullease.

Buy an electric cart or buy a gas cart. They both have their advantages. But don't make your decision based on this typical and false propaganda.

Yeah...electricity just appears in your wall magically. That's what so great about it. Who can argue with that?!?

At least there was one bit of accurate information in the post...electric carts catch fire for a lot of reasons, including some not listed.

Again, buy gas or electric. But do it for your own personal reasons. Don't be fooled into thinking you're going to save the world.

[Bay Kid]

I've had a electric cart for about 10 and 2 sets of batteries but never has anyone mentioned breaking in batteries or any daily chore other than plugging in the cart to change the batteries. I check the water about 1st per month and wish I had a auto water system but other than that there is no Breakin or maintenance

There is a break-in time for the batteries. See past post. Maybe not necessary, but.

[Topspinmo]

It's interesting how the "Healthiest town in US" (by someone definition) is in the opposite direction to rest of the US (and world) with autos moving to Electric. I guess the older we get many don't mind the pollution, smell, noise or jerking of gas carts (EFI carts included). It must be that wonderful smell that fills the tunnels that is actually healthy for you.
As you might guess I've had an electric cart since 2007 and never been towed and will probably replace it with another electric cart. I guess I don't subscribe to The argument "As The Villages get larger you need a gas cart to get from one end to the other" since if I can't get there by cart in under 50 minutes I have no desire to go by cart. BTW I sure hope all those electric auto owners are avoiding the fire hazard by not parking them in their garage.

Not to spoil your opinions, but, all those electric cars and your Electric cart are not that old yet, so time will tell. what do you think you smelling when you charge the batteries. I had elect. cart and liked it. It was cheaper easy to maintain, but I wouldn't keep on over 8 or 10 years. At that point all the charging cycles takes toll, now your fighting corrosion in the wiring and chassis, as batteries get weaker or older they evaporate more battery acid water which increased corrosion maintenance. That's why the tech guy likes them and of course gas cause most don't have clue how to maintain them. Now gas vs electric. Gas IMO is not for person that has no clue, stay with electric, at least all you got to do is charge the batteries, check water level and occasionally check air in tires (some can't even do that, which probably causes the very low percentage of fires or explosions in really old carts) Last summer lady was driving her old electric golf cart and the batteries exploded and blew her off the seat, she hit the curb and tipped over) Rare IMO that this could happen but with no preventive maintenance and just charge and go eventually something going to happen.

Gas, the number one thing is OIL CHANGES and check air in tires. It's lawn mower air cooled engine with usually 1 quart of oil in it. I admit it doesn't have the stress of lawn mower engine environment, but still by design lawn mower engine. Gas Carts will last very long time with just oil changes. I have never worn out gas engine in car, boat, lawn mower, motorcycle, golf cart, or even weed eater. But, I am stickler on preventive maintenance.

Bottom line Electric is fine and Gas is fine if you have skills. What one wants and don't want to have to do. Now if I didn't have clue or have NO desire to do preventive maintenance by old means get electric. But, in the end the cost about same when you figure batteries, electricity, corrosion prevention, chassis maintenance, and the low trade in or sale value IMO.

Question? when the last time the transaxle grease was changed or even checked in your cart? I just done mine, if it hasn't been in 5 or 6 years you might want to add that to maintenance plan? Another thing if you happen to look under your cart and you see leak (usually oil or grease) or there is fluid on the garage floor where you park the cart you have problem which is only going to get worse.

[Wiotte]

Why argue about what the other guy is driving or trying to convince a newbie a particular mode is the way to go. The past century has taught us that internal combustion is the proven winner in this race. If you don’t agree, go electric.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[graciegirl]

Why argue about what the other guy is driving or trying to convince a newbie a particular mode is the way to go. The past century has taught us that internal combustion is the proven winner in this race. If you don’t agree, go electric.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

The short answer is that us Villagers Who Have Been Here For More Than Five Years like to show off in front of Newbies.

And, it is true that we could all keep our mouths shut and just wait for them to notice that the carts that quit along the cartpath's are usually Electric Carts.

However, If we don't tell the newbies that, when they find it out for themselves, then we can't say; "I told you so".

Green is good but walking several miles home is not enjoyed by all and not something all can do anymore.

[ajbrown]

The short answer is that us Villagers Who Have Been Here For More Than Five Years like to show off in front of Newbies.

And, it is true that we could all keep our mouths shut and just wait for them to notice that the carts that quit along the cartpath's are usually Electric Carts.

However, If we don't tell the newbies that, when they find it out for themselves, then we can't say; "I told you so".

Green is good but walking several miles home is not enjoyed by all and not something all can do anymore.

10 years for me and my reply is: :sigh::oops::ohdear:

[Timothy]

Thanks for seeking out "I told you so" moments; however, the true short answer is engage brain and know your cart's energy status and related limitations before venturing out.

[graciegirl]

Thanks for seeking out "I told you so" moments; however, the true short answer is engage brain and know your cart's energy status and related limitations before venturing out.

YOU GOT IT!!!

Keep your gas tank filled.

[red tail]

Electric Golf Cart Vs. Gas Golf Cart – RMI Golf Carts (https://www.rmigolfcarts.com/blogs/news/electric-golf-cart-vs-gas-golf-cart)

[Topspinmo]

Why argue about what the other guy is driving or trying to convince a newbie a particular mode is the way to go. The past century has taught us that internal combustion is the proven winner in this race. If you don’t agree, go electric.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Are you talking to me:wave: if so I usually agree. I didn't think I was arguing just explaining the problems and pros and cons of both based on few decades of hands on mechanical experience.

[Wiotte]

Are you talking to me:wave: if so I usually agree. I didn't think I was arguing just explaining the problems and pros and cons of both based on few decades of hands on mechanical experience.



Only a few decades ? Sounds like you’re the newbie [emoji51]


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[8notes]

Electric Golf Cart Vs. Gas Golf Cart – RMI Golf Carts (https://www.rmigolfcarts.com/blogs/news/electric-golf-cart-vs-gas-golf-cart)

This is a great article. In a nutshell, both electric and gas require maintenance.

Maintenance - Gas - need oil changes and replacement parts such as spark plugs, starter belts and so on, and fuel. Electric - need charging, and once a month or so fill the batteries with water. At some point a few years down the road, replace the batteries. All carts need tire pressure checked. As far as carts dying along the roadside, all carts will do that if you don't gas them up or recharge the battery sufficiently.

Noise - the electric cart is very quiet. You can drive along and have a pleasant conversation. Gas carts - the newer ones are better than the older ones, but electric are still quieter. If you do a lot of driving and noise is important to you, avoid gas cart.

We don't use our cart a lot for general driving, pretty much just golf, so we have an electric cart because it is quieter, and we find plugging it in to recharge it is more convenient than having to deal with filling up a cart with gas. But that is personal preference. A lot of people have gas carts and seem to like them. I personally hate the smell of the carts and the noise, but to each his/her own.

[eyc234]

If it burns gas it has a smell, no way around it. Sure The Villages is getting big but if I am going to go the often used number of "50 miles", my behind is going to be in a car. Have one of both and we would choose electric for the noise, smell(even the EFI's smell) and fewer parts to have to replace with breakdowns. It is a personal choice on both sides.

[l2ridehd]

I have personally towed home 6 electric carts since moving here. I have stopped to ask another 20 to 30 broken down carts if they needed help, all but one was electric, and I have seen many more crawling along at night with the headlights off because they are running out of juice. Hope they made it home.

I would strongly suggest most of this was caused by user error. Didn't plug it in, left the lights on, didn't replace the batteries when they should have, didn't get the plug seated correctly when they did plug it in, didn't add water to the batteries, and a few other well known user caused failures.

However most people do remember to add gas because it is something they have done all their life. The "all but one" mentioned above had run out of gas so it does happen.

So if you don't like walking home gas seems to be the better choice. And all the folks who claim electric is so much cleaner should really understand that the electricity has to be generated someplace using some type of fuel and those batteries have to be disposed of someway that breaks up lead, acid and plastic. There really is no good ecological footprint other than your own.

[TechGC]

From a repair aspect, we see pretty much the same amount, gas or electric break down out on the road. Dead battery, starter issue, broken belts, broken fuel line are all gas related issues. The debate will never end and everyone will always take there side.

[8notes]

From a repair aspect, we see pretty much the same amount, gas or electric break down out on the road. Dead battery, starter issue, broken belts, broken fuel line are all gas related issues. The debate will never end and everyone will always take their side.

Thanks TechGC. Most of the posts on this thread are opinions. You back yours up with professional experience.

[l2ridehd]

From a repair aspect, we see pretty much the same amount, gas or electric break down out on the road. Dead battery, starter issue, broken belts, broken fuel line are all gas related issues. The debate will never end and everyone will always take there side.

From an actual "breakdown" (cart dead and you don't know why and it has to be serviced) I would really think more gas than electric. More there to go wrong. From a dead cart beside the cart path it is way higher for electric. Most folks just get towed home and plug them in. And again I would believe mostly caused by user error, but still many many more than gas.

[graciegirl]

Thanks TechGC. Most of the posts on this thread are opinions. You back yours up with professional experience.

I am skeptical.

To me this issue doesn't matter if the cart is dead as in Funeral or run out of juice. I see the Electric ones all alone sitting there along a cart path wishing they were home more. MORE.

[Barefoot]

I have personally towed home 6 electric carts since moving here. I have stopped to ask another 20 to 30 broken down carts if they needed help, all but one was electric, and I have seen many more crawling along at night with the headlights off because they are running out of juice. Hope they made it home.

I would strongly suggest most of this was caused by user error. Didn't plug it in, left the lights on, didn't replace the batteries when they should have, didn't get the plug seated correctly when they did plug it in, didn't add water to the batteries, and a few other well known user caused failures.

However most people do remember to add gas because it is something they have done all their life. The "all but one" mentioned above had run out of gas so it does happen.

So if you don't like walking home gas seems to be the better choice. And all the folks who claim electric is so much cleaner should really understand that the electricity has to be generated someplace using some type of fuel and those batteries have to be disposed of someway that breaks up lead, acid and plastic. There really is no good ecological footprint other than your own.

Excellent and thoughtful comments, as always. :thumbup:

[tuccillo]

Yes, an excellent point that may be overlooked by many. Lead acid battery recycling is pretty interesting. Essentially everything is recovered. The plastic and lead is reused to make new batteries. It does, however, consume energy and chemicals to recover the lead and plastic. There is no free lunch.



.... and those batteries have to be disposed of someway that breaks up lead, acid and plastic. There really is no good ecological footprint other than your own.

[Fredman]

Regardless of the pros and cons it is all a matter of preference. Gas owners will swear by gas and electric owners will swear by electric. All the posts in the world will not change their opinions.

[ajbrown]

From an actual "breakdown" (cart dead and you don't know why and it has to be serviced) I would really think more gas than electric. More there to go wrong. From a dead cart beside the cart path it is way higher for electric. Most folks just get towed home and plug them in. And again I would believe mostly caused by user error, but still many many more than gas.

Your opinion is always enjoyable to read. At least yours are based on experience, not some silly conjecture.

I believe the nail on the head is many times user error or ignorance. I also have towed folks home with electric carts.

Ask them how many volts are in the pack and you will see a blind stare :). Not sure many know that volt is something more than a car...

Anyway, it is electric for me, but I fully understand why folks want gas carts also. I am not trying to sway anyone.

[twoplanekid]

another viewpoint -> Golf cart.....Gas vs Electric??? - TexasBowhunter.com Community Discussion Forums (http://discussions.texasbowhunter.com/forums/showthread.php?t=76529)

[Topspinmo]

I have personally towed home 6 electric carts since moving here. I have stopped to ask another 20 to 30 broken down carts if they needed help, all but one was electric, and I have seen many more crawling along at night with the headlights off because they are running out of juice. Hope they made it home.

I would strongly suggest most of this was caused by user error. Didn't plug it in, left the lights on, didn't replace the batteries when they should have, didn't get the plug seated correctly when they did plug it in, didn't add water to the batteries, and a few other well known user caused failures.

However most people do remember to add gas because it is something they have done all their life. The "all but one" mentioned above had run out of gas so it does happen.

So if you don't like walking home gas seems to be the better choice. And all the folks who claim electric is so much cleaner should really understand that the electricity has to be generated someplace using some type of fuel and those batteries have to be disposed of someway that breaks up lead, acid and plastic. There really is no good ecological footprint other than your own.

:BigApplause:

[Topspinmo]

From a repair aspect, we see pretty much the same amount, gas or electric break down out on the road. Dead battery, starter issue, broken belts, broken fuel line are all gas related issues. The debate will never end and everyone will always take there side.

would that be cause there are bunch of morons that can't find dipstick or know batteries take water?:highfive:

[TechGC]

would that be cause there are bunch of morons that can't find dipstick or know batteries take water?:highfive:


Never see anyone run their golf car out of oil. Batteries out of water, only ever now and then, everyone in the villages is aware that the batteries need filled.

[Barefoot]

Regardless of the pros and cons it is all a matter of preference. Gas owners will swear by gas and electric owners will swear by electric. All the posts in the world will not change their opinions.
Actually, people do change their minds as technology evolves.
I had electric golf carts for ten years and loved them.
If you remember to plug in your cart every night, I think electric carts are reliable.
I was persuaded by Fireboy to try a new Yamaha QuieTech gas cart.
It's not as quiet as electric, but much quieter than other gas carts I've driven.
However the jury is still out.

[Plowboy]

We went with electric due to the quite ride. Also the gas carts have an awful stink that we did not like.

[SoHappy]

We just bought an Atomic electric cart. These are the reasons for our decision
It’s studier than a regular cart therefore safer. It has AC, windows, doors, a radio and a roll bar. It’s comfortable. Our neighbors have one and say It goes 80 miles on a charge, 100 if you don’t use the AC. Our neighbors commented that they played more golf in the really hot weather because of the cart. We upgraded and customized the seats. The dealer is wonderful to work with.

[gsovas]

Tim,
My personal opinion regarding this issue:
1. Depending where you live in The Villages -we have a vast area now which we travel
2. Do you play golf? If you are planning on riding a 1/2 hour to the golf course, playing 18 holes of golf, then going out with the boys Electric does not always work well as the batteries get older.
3. Cost factor on replacing the batteries
4. Gas units are easier to maintain, last longer, allow you access anywhere as long as you have a gas station which there are plenty.
5. Once you run out by accident or the Electric vehicle is running low, you are in trouble because there are no charging stations on Buena Vista Blvd or Morse Blvd. when you run dry. Also what if you forgot to plug in last night after partying? You now have a dead golf cart.

[gsovas]

Today's newest Yamaha's are quiet and they don't stink as reported.
They are EFI which burns cleaner and more efficient. Yes when you get in any tunnel, they will all stink since 10 other carts went through the same tunnel.

[Timothy]

Tim,
My personal opinion regarding this issue:
1. Depending where you live in The Villages -we have a vast area now which we travel
2. Do you play golf? If you are planning on riding a 1/2 hour to the golf course, playing 18 holes of golf, then going out with the boys Electric does not always work well as the batteries get older.
3. Cost factor on replacing the batteries
4. Gas units are easier to maintain, last longer, allow you access anywhere as long as you have a gas station which there are plenty.
5. Once you run out by accident or the Electric vehicle is running low, you are in trouble because there are no charging stations on Buena Vista Blvd or Morse Blvd. when you run dry. Also what if you forgot to plug in last night after partying? You now have a dead golf cart.

THANKS! I play golf and I party and have stretched my travels via electric golf cart about as far as I can imagine ever wanting to go in a day or so. Fortunately, my Tomberlin E-Merge has an integrated charger so in the unlikely event I do need an emergency charge all I need is an outlet. Given we are in the friendliest of all communities imaginable I am sure finding a plug-in would be a no-brainer.

No storing gas; no trips to the gas station; no noise, smell, or annoying others. No hesitation off the line!

BTW I have no connection to any cart or service provider in these regards other than being a very satisfied electric cart owner. Tim

[Karl1948]

We just moved and bought a 2017 Yamaha EFI QuieTech from Carts and Clubs. We also rented an older Club Car when we had guests. There is no comparison on noise. The Yamaha seems silent compared to the Club Car. That said, even the Yamaha is too noisy to hear the turn-by-turn nav instructions on the Villages GPS app. With the Club Car, you didn't know the phone was talking. With the Yamaha, you could often tell that there was a voice, but couldn't make out any words. Maybe an electric is so quiet, it would work - don't know, never drove one. Regarding distance, we have used up a full tank from when we got the cart in mid October through today. My sister-in-law had an electric and traded it in on a Yamaha QuieTech after getting stranded trying to get home from golf too many times.

[coffeebean]

Our 2016 Yamaha electric cart has a "tow" mode switch. We were told that is we ever run out of juice, we are to put the cart in "tow" mode and wait 15 minutes. Put the cart back in "run" mode and at that point, the batteries will somehow have enough juice to drive the cart about a mile or two. We were assured by the salesman the cart will respond for that distance as if the batteries were completely charged. That process can be repeated as many times as needed to get the cart to a power source (which in most cases will be home). I have never had to rely on this method to get the cart home but it's nice to know that is an option.

We also have emergency road side assistance coverage (very inexpensive) if we ever run out of juice or break down in our electric cart. I would not drive the cart without that reassurance. It is like having AAA for the car. I have not been without AAA coverage for our car for the past 40 years and will never be without roadside assistance coverage for the golf cart.

[TechGC]

Our 2016 Yamaha electric cart has a "tow" mode switch. We were told that is we ever run out of juice, we are to put the cart in "tow" mode and wait 15 minutes. Put the cart back in "run" mode and at that point, the batteries will somehow have enough juice to drive the cart about a mile or two. We were assured by the salesman the cart will respond for that distance as if the batteries were completely charged. That process can be repeated as many times as needed to get the cart to a power source (which in most cases will be home). I have never had to rely on this method to get the cart home but it's nice to know that is an option..


Don't do that. The batteries are already to far depleted and doing that will not only harm the batteries but also can wound the electronics.
As battery voltage goes down, amperage goes up, amperage is heat and that heat has to go somewhere...places like the controller, motor, solenoid etc

[coffeebean]

Don't do that. The batteries are already to far depleted and doing that will not only harm the batteries but also can wound the electronics.
As battery voltage goes down, amperage goes up, amperage is heat and that heat has to go somewhere...places like the controller, motor, solenoid etc

Why in the world would our salesman tell us about this process if it would do damage to the cart? Thank you for setting me straight about this.

[TechGC]

Why in the world would our salesman tell us about this process if it would do damage to the cart? Thank you for setting me straight about this.

Salesman- its more about what he wants to put in his pocket and not about you, the customers best interest.

[MorTech]

Our 2016 Yamaha electric cart has a "tow" mode switch. We were told that is we ever run out of juice, we are to put the cart in "tow" mode and wait 15 minutes. Put the cart back in "run" mode and at that point, the batteries will somehow have enough juice to drive the cart about a mile or two. We were assured by the salesman the cart will respond for that distance as if the batteries were completely charged. That process can be repeated as many times as needed to get the cart to a power source (which in most cases will be home). I have never had to rely on this method to get the cart home but it's nice to know that is an option.

We also have emergency road side assistance coverage (very inexpensive) if we ever run out of juice or break down in our electric cart. I would not drive the cart without that reassurance. It is like having AAA for the car. I have not been without AAA coverage for our car for the past 40 years and will never be without roadside assistance coverage for the golf cart.

Huh...That's a cool trick. The Yamaha motor controller will shut down when it determines the battery capacity is at approx 20%. Another problem with lead-acid batteries is that the battery voltage is dragged down when discharging which is what's called "working" voltage. The working voltage is much lower than the "Rest" voltage...The Rest voltage is what is used to determine battery State of Charge. When you flip the switch to tow, It will cutoff the power to the motor controller and if you let it sit for 15 minutes, the battery pack voltage will raise toward it's Rest voltage (it takes 30 minutes to raise nearly to true Rest voltage but 15 minutes will due). Then when you flip the switch back to run, the controller re-reads the battery voltage and determines you are good to go. I suspect you have maybe 3-4 miles before the controller cuts off again. This is fine in a pinch...You should try to avoid it though.

I am going to have to test this out and see if this really works. I will let you know.

[Bay Kid]

Why in the world would our salesman tell us about this process if it would do damage to the cart? Thank you for setting me straight about this.

I have noticed some cart salesman will tell you what they want you to hear. They also usually don't really know their products very well. I have helped educate a few.

[coffeebean]

.......I am going to have to test this out and see if this really works. I will let you know.

I will be checking back on this thread to see how your test works out. Will you be discharging the batteries so the cart will not go?

[Challenger]

I have noticed some cart salesman will tell you what they want you to hear. They also usually don't really know their products very well. I have helped educate a few.

I am quite often amazed by how ignorant some cart salespersons are about the products they sell. I have several times had them explain a system which was either myth or pure bs.

Remember they have skin in the game
"Caveat Emptor"

[dhabel2112@gmail.com]

The EZGO Elite lithium carts with the 120ah pack has a range of about 55 miles.
The villages carts wants $15K but you can get a base one anywhere else for about $11.5K

Too pricey for me...Still.

I'm reading conflicting estimates about range on the 120ah Elite EzGo. wish I knew the truth. Villages Carts told me 50miles but I'm hoping that's a conservative guess.

[biker1]

Fifty miles is a *lot* of miles in a golf cart for one day and certainly is not typical. I believe our all time record was less than twenty miles. Assuming you don't forget to plug the cart in overnight, I really don't see how a fifty mile range is an issue.

I am typically not an early adopter of new technology (I prefer to let others pay the high costs), however the lithium-ion EZGO carts potentially look attractive, especially if the extended battery life is realized. When compared to flooded lead-acid batteries, the lower weight, zero maintenance, quick recharges, and the ability to deeply discharge without damage are additional advantages. Given the large incremental costs, I would read the warranty very carefully.

I'm reading conflicting estimates about range on the 120ah Elite EzGo. wish I knew the truth. Villages Carts told me 50miles but I'm hoping that's a conservative guess.

[bilcon]

Have not yet invested in a golf cart but the time has come to do so. It seems most of the carts we see on the course are gas. We planned on getting an electric for charging convenience at home, noise, fumes, etc. But are rethinking our position on electric vs gas. I get that personal preference is key but I'd value any comparative input on this decision. Anyone transitioned from one to the other? Thanks in advance. Tim


ANY EXPERIENCE WITH TOMBERLIN?? No

I personally like the gas cart, because you don't have to worry about charging, or checking battery fluid. I have one of each, and while the electric cart is quiet, the gas cart lets you go anywhere without worrying about low batteries. I like the Yamaha for gas, and the Club cart for electric.

[Barefoot]

Have not yet invested in a golf cart but the time has come to do so.
I see you bought a Tomberlin. How is that working out for you?

[dhabel2112@gmail.com]

Check out the EZ go Elite. It comes with lithium Ion battery packs Which are guaranteed for 10 years against everything! Smooth riding, long distance ( I test drove one and at 50 miles the battery pack wasn't even down to half! I put it on the charger for 1 hour and it was almost fully charged!), This cart goes the same speed up hill and down hill about 22 mph. No parking brake. I was all set to buy one but the extra cost for the lithium batteries ( almost $5,000) drove me away. I did buy the Yamaha Quiet tech EFI, but sure wish I could have afforded the EZ Go. No gas stations, noise (yes ALL gas carts are noisy!). I also think the EZ go is smoother riding.

This is the only distance review I've seen here on the Elite Cart.

This is the only distance quote i can find.

( I test drove one and at 50 miles the battery pack wasn't even down to half! I put it on the charger for 1 hour and it was almost fully charged!), This cart goes the same speed up hill and down hill about 22 mph. No parking brake. I was all set to buy one but the extra cost for the lithium batteries ( almost $5,000) drove me away.

[MorTech]

EZGO Elite Lithium has 3 models - 2.0(60ah*50v=3kw), 3.0(90ah*50v=4.5kw), 4.0(120ah*50v=6kw)

The EZGO AC motor is pretty efficient at about 100w per mile.
An EZGO Elite 4.0 has an approx range of 60 miles (6kw/100w) at 80F.
I am guessing it comes with a standard 1000w battery charger so charging rate of approx 10 miles per hour.

I would much prefer the Tomberlin Emerge LE for $11K

I would rather have a cavity drilled without novocaine than drive 50 miles on a cart :)
Going around TV (Hillsborough to morse to el camino real to buena vista to hillsborough) is about 28 miles.

[mrf6969]

Too much technically can go wrong with the electric carts. Then when something does go wrong, and it will, hold on to your wallet. Gas is old school and cheap to repair as need arises. The NEW Yamaha gas are really as quiet as an electric cart. Pretty impressive that you can't hear them anymore as they pass you by.

[Lottoguy]

GAS! Unless you want to spend $800 every three years for new batteries. Get the Yamaha Quiet Tec.

[MorTech]

Hmm, yes, Batteries connected by 2 wires to a motor controller connected by 3 wires to a motor...Yup, FAR too much to go wrong there :) The only wear item - is one motor shaft end bearing you might have to replace in 15 years or so on an AC motor.

$750 every 6 years for batteries. 5 cents per mile less for electricity than gasoline..3000 miles per year..18000 miles for 6 years...$900 more for gas over electricity. Doesn't even factor in $80 per year maintenance cost for gas carts..another $480 added to gas cart. 6 year maintenance on electric cart..several gallons of distilled water..call it 10 bucks.

$1380 every 6 years for the Yamaha QuieTech.

[Polar Bear]

Don't you my-kind-is-the-only-kind guys ever get tired? Isn't it possible both are pretty good?

[MorTech]

Logic reason and math are tiring but necessary for better than "pretty good".

[Polar Bear]

I rest my case.

[vintageogauge]

I was on the fence as I had a Par Car that was trouble free and quiet, posted on here earlier. I did decide to go with a 2018 Gas Yamaha this time and even though I don't like the noise I'm glad I went with gas as there is nothing to do when you get home, just pull it in and turn it off, pretty convenient. I don't drive far as some here do so was not concerned about how far either model would go, glad I bought it. One thing I don't like is the loud back-up alarm.

[MorTech]

"One thing I don't like is the loud back-up alarm"

A piece of electrical tape over the buzzer will quiet it down a bit :)
It's under the front cowl...you can get to it from the passenger side front tire well.