What are the two brands of golf cart batteries?
Trojan Battery and Interstate Batteries are the two dominant brands in golf cart batteries. Trojan specializes in deep-cycle lead-acid batteries (6V/8V) with rugged construction for 500–1,200 cycles, while Interstate offers AGM and flooded options balancing affordability (≈$150–$250 per 6V) and reliability. Both support lithium upgrades but differ in maintenance needs—Trojan requires monthly watering vs. Interstate’s sealed AGM designs.
Where to Find Trojan T-875 Golf Cart Batteries
What makes Trojan Battery a leader in golf cart batteries?
Trojan dominates with high-cycle lead-acid batteries engineered for torque-heavy applications. Their T-875 8V model delivers 170Ah capacity and 1,200+ cycles via thick plates and sulfuric acid optimization. Pro Tip: Pair Trojan batteries with on-board watering systems to minimize maintenance labor.
Trojan’s design philosophy prioritizes deep discharges (80% DoD) without sulfation—critical for hilly courses. Their proprietary DuraGrid plates resist corrosion 40% longer than generic models, while electrolyte suspension systems prevent stratification. For example, a 48V Trojan pack (six 8V batteries) provides 10.2kWh, powering 18-hole rounds on single charges. But why choose lead-acid in the lithium era? Many golf facilities stick with Trojan for upfront cost ($900–$1,200 per set) and compatibility with legacy chargers. Warning: Avoid mixing Trojan batteries with non-OEM chargers—voltage variances above 2.3VPC accelerate degradation.
| Feature | Trojan T-875 | Generic 8V |
|---|---|---|
| Cycle Life | 1,200 | 600 |
| Plate Thickness | 0.22″ | 0.16″ |
| Warranty | 18 mo. | 12 mo. |
How does Interstate compete in golf cart battery markets?
Interstate offers cost-effective AGM/flooded batteries with 3–5 year lifespans. Their GC2-XHD 6V model provides 232Ah at $180–$210, targeting budget-conscious buyers. Pro Tip: Interstate’s sealed AGM models work best in dusty environments—no venting required.
Interstate leverages distributed manufacturing for faster logistics—90% of U.S. dealers stock replacements. Their GC110 8V battery uses calcium-alloy grids reducing water loss by 70% vs. standard designs. Practically speaking, a 48V Interstate setup (six 8V) costs $1,100–$1,400, undercutting Trojan by 15–20%. But what about performance? Testing shows Interstate packs deliver 8–10% less range on hilly terrain due to higher internal resistance. Transitional phrase: Beyond price, their 30-month prorated warranty covers gradual capacity loss—a rarity in lead-acid markets. For example, a Florida golf course reported 4.2 years from Interstate GC8s with monthly equalization charges.
Battery Expert Insight
FAQs
Expect 4–6 years with proper watering and 15A smart charging. Neglecting equalization cuts lifespan to 2–3 years.
Does Interstate offer lithium golf cart batteries?
Yes—their GC-Li series provides 100Ah LiFePO4 packs since 2022, but limited availability in rural dealerships.