🚗 Module 4: Golf Cart Application
Power Requirements
Typical Golf Cart Power Profile:
- Cruising at 25 km/h on flat: 0.8-1.2 kW
- Climbing 10% grade: 2-3 kW
- Acceleration peak: 3-4 kW
- Auxiliary loads: 0.2-0.4 kW
Recommended System: 2-3 kW FC + 2-3 kW battery + 5 kW motor
Range Calculation
Given:
- Hâ‚‚ storage: 1.0 kg at 700 bar
- System efficiency: 45% (LHV basis)
- Average power: 1.2 kW
- Hâ‚‚ energy: 33.3 kWh/kg (LHV)
Calculation:
Available energy = 1.0 kg × 33.3 kWh/kg × 45% = 15.0 kWh
Operating time = 15.0 kWh ÷ 1.2 kW = 12.5 hours
Range at 25 km/h = 12.5 h × 25 km/h = 312 km theoretical
Practical range: 100-140 km per kg Hâ‚‚
Performance Comparison
| Metric | Lead-Acid | Lithium-Ion | Hydrogen FC |
|---|---|---|---|
| Range | 40-60 km | 60-80 km | 80-120 km/kg Hâ‚‚ |
| Refuel Time | 6-8 hours | 2-4 hours | 2-3 minutes |
| System Weight | 400-600 kg | 150-200 kg | 80-120 kg |
| Lifetime | 4-6 years | 7-10 years | 10-15 years (stack) |
Real-World Example
A fuel cell hybrid golf cart was tested over a 100-km drive on a plain route with an average speed of about 18 km/h. The fuel cell system had an efficiency of over 30% at the power consumption required for vehicle cruise.
Hybrid fuel cell systems for light electric vehicles showed energy consumption of 0.11 kWh/km, with increases of up to 80% in maximum distance compared to battery-only systems.