Best 36 Volt Lithium Marine, Golf Cart, and RV Battery

Marine and RV 36-volt lithium batteries are used to store large amounts of energy and release it when needed. Shifting from 12V to 36V increases energy efficiency while keeping the required wiring at acceptable thickness.

Also, moving from lead-acid to lithium batteries decreases the weight of the battery pack, increases the number of charging/discharging cycles, increases the battery energy efficiency, etc.

Updated: October 9, 2024.

Single 36-Volt Lithium Battery vs. Three 12-Volt Lithium Batteries Connected in Series

Marine, automotive, RV, and light-industry lithium batteries are almost exclusively Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO₄) batteries, featuring a nominal voltage of 3.2 volts per cell and standard discharge current of ~1C, and surge current ~2C - of course, these values vary from the battery to the battery.

In order to make these batteries as safe as possible, lithium batteries come with the built-in Battery Management System (BMS) that protects the battery from unwanted events like short-circuit, overcharge, over-discharge, overcurrent, overheating, etc.

Also, BMS ensures cell-balancing and ensures proper operation when the batteries are connected in series and/or parallel - if allowed by the battery manufacturer!

In order to achieve 36-volts, one may use a single 36-volt lithium battery or three 12-volt lithium batteries connected in series.

If You need a 36-volt lithium battery, it is much simpler to have a single battery of the required capacity and to charge it using a single 36-volt lithium battery charger.

The following comparison chart lists some of the most popular 36-volt lithium batteries suitable for marine, RV, automotive, and even light-industrial use:

Most 36-volt lithium batteries are large batteries, often labeled as 4D batteries but featuring actual dimensions of somewhat larger BCI Group 6D batteries.

Also, 36-volt lithium batteries are not as common as 12-volt lithium batteries - 36-volt lithium batteries are newer on the market and they are not offered by as many brands as 12-volt lithium batteries.

For more information about 12V lithium batteries, feel free to check our What Is The Best 12 Volt Lithium Battery article.

Note: If a single 36-volt lithium battery fits your needs, consider purchasing that battery with the battery charger from the same brand. However, if You need a custom 36-volt battery pack, personally, 12-volt lithium batteries are much more mature units than 36-volt lithium batteries. Just my 2c!

When creating battery packs by connecting several batteries in series and/or parallel, be sure that their BMSs support such connections, be sure to always use the very same batteries from the same brand and preferably from the same batch, use wires thick enough and connect the batteries as recommended by the manufacturer.

Note: connecting lead-acid batteries in series/parallel is much simpler in terms of planning, but lithium batteries due to their built-in Battery Management Systems are much more sensitive. If unsure, always, but really always check the battery documentation and if required, contact the battery manufacturer.

Can I use a 36-volt lithium battery for trolling motors?

Yes, you can use a 36-volt lithium battery for trolling motors, and it is actually a popular and effective choice. Lithium batteries provide consistent power output, longer runtime, and faster recharge times compared to traditional lead-acid batteries.

They are also significantly lighter, which can improve your boat's performance and speed.

Additionally, lithium batteries have a longer lifespan and require minimal maintenance, making them a reliable and cost-effective solution for powering trolling motors.

How long does a 36-volt lithium battery last in an RV?

A 36-volt lithium battery in an RV can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years, depending on usage patterns, quality, and maintenance. In terms of charge cycles, lithium batteries typically offer between 2,000 to 5,000 cycles, significantly more than traditional lead-acid batteries.

The battery's runtime per charge can vary, but it usually provides consistent power for several hours to a few days, depending on the RV's energy consumption and the battery's capacity.

Proper maintenance, such as avoiding deep discharges and using the correct charger, can further extend the lifespan.

Benefits of Using a 36-volt Lithium Battery in a Golf Cart

Using a 36-volt lithium battery in a golf cart offers several benefits, including a longer lifespan and faster charging times compared to traditional lead-acid batteries.

Lithium batteries are also significantly lighter, which reduces the overall weight of the golf cart, leading to improved speed and efficiency.

Additionally, they require minimal maintenance, provide consistent power output, and are more environmentally friendly due to their longer durability and lower rate of discharge.

Can I replace my lead-acid golf cart battery with a 36-volt lithium battery?

Yes, you can replace your lead-acid golf cart battery with a 36-volt lithium battery, but it involves some important considerations.

Lithium batteries are lighter and have a different size and shape, so you may need to use mounting brackets or adapters to secure them properly in the battery compartment.

You will also need to use a lithium-specific charger, as lead-acid chargers are incompatible and could damage the new battery.

Additionally, it’s important to check that your golf cart’s electrical system is compatible with lithium technology to ensure safe and optimal performance.

What is the lifespan of a 36-volt lithium battery compared to a lead-acid battery in golf carts?

A 36-volt lithium battery typically has a significantly longer lifespan compared to a lead-acid battery in golf carts.

Lithium batteries can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years, or around 2,000 to 5,000 charge cycles, depending on usage and maintenance. In contrast, lead-acid batteries usually last about 3 to 5 years, or roughly 300 to 500 charge cycles.

This extended lifespan makes lithium batteries a more durable and cost-effective option over time despite their higher upfront cost.

Long Story Short: 36-volt lithium batteries are becoming more and more popular in marine, RV, automotive, off-the-grid, and industrial applications. Such batteries are able to store large amounts of energy, they cycle much better than lead-acid batteries, they are more energy-efficient, much lighter, etc.

Also, lithium batteries are more expensive than lead-acid batteries, but since they support 8-10x more charging/discharging cycles, in the long run, they actually save money.

Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) chemistry is rather safe chemistry, especially when combined with good BMS, but, whatever You do, do according to the manufacturer's recommendations - if mistreated, these batteries may also overheat, catch fire or even explode ...

Stay safe ...