new battery from Trojan
 

I have just received an e-mail from Trojan concerning its new range of "Solar AGM" battery, designed for storing electricity generated by photovoltaic systems.

They are described as "true deep cycle AGM" and some are "maintenance free" - i.e. sealed and no need to keep topping up with water.

Any thoughts on whether these would be good for golf cart operations?

Thank you

Trojan Battery Company

Most 48 volt electric carts sold today use six 8 volt or eight 6 volt batteries to extend the driving range.

This battery is 12v and the physical size of this new battery is much larger than standard golf cart batteries now in use.

It could not be easily used (without big $$$$ modifications) for most 48v carts.

Don

A little larger and a little less capacity but double the number of charge cycles.
It was designed for stationary applications but may be OK for golf carts...Dunno.
Like to see a price on these....

http://www.trojanbattery.com/pdf/SAGM_08_165_AGM_DS.pdf

The specs say it can be fitted in any orientation (because it is sealed) but I wouldn't be happy with it on its side, so size is certainly a big consideration.

I like the maintenance-free aspect, but not if they cost a lot more, certainly.

Trojan 8V Ranger batteries are larger than standard batteries, and they can be retro fit into any golf cart.
I had them installed in our ExGo cart:bowdown:.

It sounds like an attempt to compete with lithium ion batteries, which IMHO are the future of golf cart batteries.

The EZGO Elite Lithium golf carts are $15K at Villages Golf Cars...About 55 mile range.
These are maintenance free and 8+ year batteries worth twice the price of a standard T875.
More info to come soon.

T875
 

I have the T875, now in the 4th year, still can go 20 miles+

You can use these in a golf cart application but if you have a smart charger that uses "Equalize Charge" mode, then you will need a new charger for AGM battery. AGM batteries will be damaged if you "Equalize" them. Equalize (high voltage desulfation) if for flood lead-acid batteries only.
Still don't have a price on these since they are brand new.

There's a new cart coming out soon with a Toyota motor. with lithium batteries and fully dressed out for The Villages lifestyle, ie., Sunbrella, head lights, turn signals brake lights, horn etc will be around $10,000.

I can't remember the name of it, but when my batteries wear out I think I'm going to look into one.

A lithium cart with about 60 mile range (8kw) and >8 mph charge time for about $10K would be my trigger point. Southern Oaks to Mulberry Grove will be about 40 miles round trip. Club Car and Yamaha will have lithium carts next year. Lithium cart is about 300 lbs. lighter than the lead-acid pack.

DPI and Eagle make golf cart chargers with configurable AGM charge profiles...About $350.