If you are considering an electric golf trolley, one of the most important questions to ask is: how long will the battery actually last?
You will often see electric golf trolley batteries described as 18-hole, 27-hole or 36-hole batteries. But what do those numbers really mean? Will a 36-hole battery actually get you through two rounds? How long should the battery last before it needs replacing? And does playing on a hilly golf course use more battery?
The answer is that battery performance depends on much more than the number printed on the battery.
This guide explains the difference between 18-hole and 36-hole batteries, what affects battery range, how long a golf trolley battery can last, and how to get the best performance and lifespan from your battery.
How Many Holes Does an Electric Golf Trolley Battery Last?
Electric golf trolley batteries are commonly described according to the approximate number of holes they are designed to power.
An 18-hole battery is intended to provide enough power for a typical round of golf, while a 36-hole battery is designed to provide considerably more range and can be suitable for two rounds without recharging under appropriate conditions.
However, an 18-hole or 36-hole rating should be viewed as an indication of expected performance rather than a guarantee.
The actual number of holes you can play on a single charge can be affected by:
- The terrain of the golf course
- The number and steepness of hills
- The weight of your golf bag and equipment
- How frequently the trolley accelerates and stops
- The speed at which you operate the trolley
- Weather and temperature
- The condition and age of the battery
- How well the battery has been maintained
A golfer playing a relatively flat course may therefore achieve considerably different results from someone playing a hilly course, even when both are using the same battery.
What Is the Difference Between an 18-Hole and 36-Hole Golf Trolley Battery?
The simplest way to think about the difference is capacity and reserve.
An 18-hole battery is designed around the requirements of a typical 18-hole round. A 36-hole battery has greater capacity, providing additional range.
For golfers who only ever play 18 holes, an 18-hole battery may be perfectly adequate.
A 36-hole battery can make more sense if you:
- Regularly play 36 holes
- Play on particularly hilly courses
- Want additional battery reserve
- Don’t want to recharge between rounds
- Play several rounds over a short period
- Prefer not to worry about whether you have enough charge left
The extra capacity can also provide peace of mind. Even if you only play 18 holes, having additional range means you are less dependent on achieving ideal conditions every time you play.
Will a 36-Hole Battery Actually Last for 36 Holes?
This is an important question because a “36-hole battery” does not necessarily mean that every golfer will get exactly 36 holes from every charge.
Manufacturers generally base their hole ratings on particular operating conditions. Real-world performance can vary.
Golf course terrain matters
A trolley working its way around a relatively flat course has a different workload from one climbing steep hills throughout the round.
Repeated climbs require more energy from the trolley’s motors, which can reduce the distance available from a single charge.
This is particularly relevant to golfers in Ireland, where many courses feature significant changes in elevation.
The weight of your equipment matters
A heavy golf bag, additional equipment and accessories all increase the load the trolley needs to move.
The heavier the combined trolley and equipment, the more work the motors may have to do, particularly when climbing.
Your speed and driving style matter
Repeated acceleration, stopping and changing direction can also affect energy consumption.
Using the trolley efficiently and avoiding unnecessary high-speed operation can help maximise battery range.
Battery age matters
A new battery and a battery that has been used regularly for several years will not necessarily deliver the same performance.
Like any rechargeable battery, capacity can gradually decline with use and age.
Do Hills Use More Golf Trolley Battery?
Yes, terrain can have a significant effect on battery consumption.
A trolley travelling uphill has to overcome gravity as well as rolling resistance. The steeper the hill and the heavier the load, the greater the demand placed on the motors.
This is one reason why golfers who regularly play hilly courses should consider battery capacity when choosing an electric trolley.
It is also why comparing electric golf trolleys based solely on their advertised battery range can be misleading.
A trolley’s overall design, motor efficiency, weight, stability and ability to handle slopes are all worth considering.
For golfers who regularly play challenging terrain, battery capacity and trolley stability should be considered together rather than as completely separate issues.
Is a 36-Hole Golf Trolley Battery Worth It?
For many golfers, the answer is yes.
If you only play one 18-hole round at a time and regularly recharge your trolley, an 18-hole battery may provide everything you need.
However, a 36-hole battery offers additional flexibility.
It can be particularly attractive to golfers who want to:
Play 36 holes:
You have significantly more battery capacity available for two rounds.
Play hilly courses:
Additional capacity can provide more reserve when the trolley is working harder.
Avoid charging between rounds:
A larger battery means less need to recharge after every round.
Have peace of mind:
Extra capacity means you are less likely to be concerned about reaching the end of a round with very little charge remaining.
For a premium electric golf trolley, a larger-capacity battery can therefore be more than just a convenience. It can contribute to a better overall ownership experience.
How Long Does a Lithium Golf Trolley Battery Last?
There are actually two different questions when someone asks how long a golf trolley battery lasts.
How long does it last on one charge?
This refers to range — for example, whether the battery will provide enough power for 18 or 36 holes.
How many years does the battery last?
This refers to battery lifespan.
These are not the same thing.
A lithium battery may provide excellent range when new but gradually lose some of its original capacity as it ages.
The actual lifespan depends on factors including:
- How frequently it is used
- How it is charged
- How it is stored
- Temperature
- Depth of discharge
- Battery quality
- The manufacturer’s charging and storage recommendations
Rather than assuming that every battery will last a specific number of years, it is better to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and pay attention to changes in battery performance.
Lithium vs Lead-Acid Golf Trolley Batteries
Modern electric golf trolleys increasingly use lithium batteries because of their combination of low weight, energy density and convenience.
Lithium batteries
Lithium batteries generally offer:
- Lower weight
- High energy capacity relative to their size
- Convenient charging
- Long service life when properly maintained
- Less physical bulk than traditional lead-acid batteries
Their main disadvantage is usually the higher initial cost.
Lead-acid batteries
Traditional lead-acid batteries can have a lower purchase price, but they are generally heavier and bulkier than lithium alternatives.
For a golfer who carries their trolley in and out of a car regularly, the difference in weight can become particularly noticeable.
When comparing electric golf trolleys, it is therefore worth considering the total ownership experience, rather than simply choosing the battery with the lowest initial price.
How Should You Charge an Electric Golf Trolley Battery?
Always follow the charging instructions supplied with your particular trolley and battery.
Using the correct charger is important because charging systems are designed for specific battery types and specifications.
Good battery habits include:
- Use the manufacturer’s supplied or approved charger.
- Follow the manufacturer’s charging instructions.
- Allow the battery to charge fully when appropriate.
- Avoid using an incompatible charger.
- Store the battery according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Avoid exposing the battery to unsuitable temperatures.
- If the trolley is not going to be used for an extended period, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for storage and maintenance charging.
Good charging and storage habits can make a significant difference to the long-term performance of a rechargeable battery.
Does Cold Weather Affect Golf Trolley Batteries?
Temperature can affect battery performance.
Golfers may notice differences in battery performance during particularly cold conditions, while leaving batteries exposed to unsuitable temperatures for extended periods can also be detrimental.
This is another reason to follow the battery manufacturer’s storage recommendations, particularly during the winter months when your trolley may be used less frequently.
How Do You Know When a Golf Trolley Battery Needs Replacing?
A battery does not necessarily fail suddenly.
One of the first signs can be reduced range.
For example, if a battery that previously completed a round comfortably begins to require significantly more charging, or the trolley starts losing power earlier in a round, the battery may be approaching the end of its useful life.
Other signs can include:
- Noticeably reduced operating time
- The trolley slowing under load
- The battery taking longer to charge
- Significant deterioration in performance
- The battery no longer holding its charge as it previously did
If you are unsure whether the problem is the battery, charger or trolley itself, it is best to have the system checked rather than automatically replacing the battery.
What Battery Does the Axglo e5 Follow Trolley Use?
The Axglo e5 Follow Trolley, available from Emerald Golf Distribution in Ireland, comes with a 36-hole battery.
That gives golfers substantial battery capacity for a full 18-hole round, with additional reserve compared with an 18-hole battery.
The e5 is also designed for golfers who want more than a conventional electric trolley. It combines Follow-Me technology and remote control with a four-wheel design and dual brushless motors.
For golfers who regularly play hilly courses, the e5’s slope capability is another important consideration. Its design is rated for slopes of up to 40°, helping provide stability on challenging terrain.
You can learn more about the Axglo e5 Follow Trolley and its features on Emerald Golf Distribution.
What Should You Consider When Choosing a Golf Trolley Battery?
If you’re comparing electric golf trolleys, don’t simply look at whether the battery is advertised as 18-hole or 36-hole.
Consider the complete picture:
1. How many holes do you normally play?
If you only play 18 holes, an 18-hole battery may be sufficient.
If you regularly play 36 holes, a larger-capacity battery makes considerably more sense.
2. How hilly are your golf courses?
Golfers playing hilly courses should consider the additional demands placed on the trolley and its battery.
3. How much equipment do you carry?
A heavier bag places additional demands on the trolley.
4. How important is trolley weight?
If you regularly lift your trolley into and out of your car, battery and trolley weight become important considerations.
5. How long do you expect to own the trolley?
A cheaper trolley may not necessarily provide the best overall value if you are planning to use it for many years.
Consider the battery, motors, construction, warranty, parts availability and after-sales support as well as the initial purchase price.
6. Is there local support?
An electric golf trolley is a significant investment. Having access to local sales, servicing and support can be an important advantage.
Frequently Asked Questions About Electric Golf Trolley Batteries
How many holes will an 18-hole golf trolley battery last?
An 18-hole battery is designed to provide sufficient capacity for a typical 18-hole round under appropriate conditions. Actual range depends on factors including terrain, load, speed, temperature and battery condition.
Is a 36-hole golf trolley battery worth it?
For golfers who play 36 holes, play hilly courses or simply want additional battery reserve, a 36-hole battery can be worthwhile. For golfers who only play occasional 18-hole rounds, an 18-hole battery may be sufficient.
Will a 36-hole battery always last 36 holes?
Not necessarily. Hole ratings are based on expected performance under specified conditions. Hills, heavy loads, weather, speed, battery age and course conditions can all affect actual range.
How long does a lithium golf trolley battery last?
The lifespan of a lithium battery depends on its quality, usage, charging habits, storage and other conditions. Battery capacity gradually declines over time, so there is no single lifespan that applies to every battery.
Do hills drain an electric golf trolley battery faster?
Yes. Climbing hills requires more energy from the trolley’s motors than travelling on flat terrain. Golfers who regularly play hilly courses should consider both battery capacity and trolley stability.
Should I buy an 18-hole or 36-hole battery?
Consider how you play. If you normally play one 18-hole round and recharge afterwards, an 18-hole battery may be sufficient. If you play 36 holes, play hilly courses or want greater reserve, a 36-hole battery may be the better choice.
How can I make my golf trolley battery last longer?
Use the correct charger, follow the manufacturer’s charging and storage instructions, avoid unsuitable temperatures and maintain the battery according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
The Bottom Line
The best electric golf trolley battery isn’t necessarily the one with the biggest number printed on it.
The right battery depends on how you play golf.
For an occasional golfer playing relatively flat courses, an 18-hole battery may be all that is required. For golfers who regularly play hilly courses, play 36 holes or simply want greater reserve, a 36-hole battery can provide a significant advantage.
When choosing an electric golf trolley, look beyond battery capacity alone. Consider the trolley’s stability, motors, weight, slope capability, control system, construction quality, warranty and local after-sales support.
For golfers in Ireland investing in a premium electric golf trolley, those factors can ultimately be just as important as the number of holes printed on the battery.