Electric scooters have been gaining popularity thanks to their convenience and affordability. With many people now, especially the mobility-challenged ones, turning to electric scooters as their preferred mode of transportation, it is important to know what kind of batteries power these vehicles.
Lithium-ion batteries are the most common type of battery used in electric scooters. While you must have encountered this type of battery in other electronics such as mobile phones and laptops, its features make it the ideal scooter battery choice.
This article will talk about some of the common electric scooter batteries and why the lithium battery is the preferred option.
What is a Lithium Battery?
An electric scooter battery provides power to the vehicle and drives it forward. The lithium battery is a type of rechargeable battery that uses an intercalated lithium compound as one electrode material. It can store large amounts of energy in its small size, making it ideal for use in scooters.
Lithium batteries are also known for their long life cycle; they can keep their charge for up to 1000 cycles. They can last several years without needing to be replaced, making them a very cost-effective choice in the long run.
That is why electric scooter manufacturers often opt for lithium batteries over other types of batteries.
Benefits of Lithium Battery Compared to Other Electric Scooter Batteries
Aside from battery capacity or energy storage capacity, a lithium battery packs several advantages over other types of batteries.
High energy density
Lithium batteries have a high energy density that can store a lot of energy in a small space. This makes them a good choice for electric scooters, which need to be lightweight and compact.
Long lifespan
Lithium batteries have a longer lifespan than other types of batteries, such as lead-acid batteries. This means they will need to be replaced less frequently, which can save you money in the long run.
Low self-discharge rate
Lithium batteries have a low self-discharge rate, which means they can hold a charge for a long time without losing much power. This is especially useful if you don’t use your electric scooter frequently.
Good performance at high and low temperatures
Lithium batteries can perform well in varying temperatures, making them suitable for use in different environments.
Fast charging
Lithium batteries can be charged quickly, which can be convenient if you need to get back on the road quickly.
Overall, lithium batteries offer a good balance of performance, lifespan, and convenience for electric scooters.
Other Types of Batteries for a Mobility Scooter
The battery management system of an electric scooter is what determines the battery type that can be used. Other than lithium batteries, other common types of batteries include lead-acid batteries and nickel-metal hydride batteries.
Sealed Lead Acid Batteries
The battery pack in an electric scooter is made of several individual lead-acid batteries. These are usually sealed with a thick plastic casing and require very little maintenance.
They’re also quite inexpensive and offer decent performance, making them a popular choice for some types of electric scooters.
However, they do not last as long as lithium batteries, with most having a life cycle of around 300-500 charges. This means they need to be replaced more often, leading to additional costs.
While the upfront cost seems lower, replacement battery costs can add up over time. It is also heavier than other types of batteries such as the lithium-ion battery, making the scooter or any other applications heavier.
Nickel-Metal Hydride Batteries
These are a type of rechargeable battery that uses nickel and metal hydride as electrodes. They have a higher energy density than lead-acid batteries, which means they can store more energy in their size.
Nickel-metal hydride batteries are also known to be lighter, making them a better choice for applications that require greater portability.
However, the life cycle of these batteries is not as long as lithium-ion batteries, with an average of around 500 charge cycles. It takes 10 to 12 hours to charge them, while lithium-ion batteries can be charged in just a few hours. It also has a low voltage output.
Tips on How to Maintain Your Electric Scooter Battery
Battery cells tend to lose their charging capacity over time, resulting in a decrease in range, performance, and overall battery life. If you don’t have a spare battery, it’s important to take good care of the existing one. Here are some tips on how to maintain your electric mobility scooter battery:
Avoid deep discharging
A deep discharge occurs when your battery is discharged beyond its recommended level, which can cause irreversible damage. Whenever possible, try to keep the battery charged and avoid discharging it fully.
Store at a proper temperature
If you’re not using your electric scooter for extended periods, be sure to store it in an area with moderate temperatures.
Clean the contacts regularly
Dust and dirt can build up on the battery terminals, causing a decrease in performance and even failure. Make sure to keep these contacts clean by wiping them with a damp cloth every few weeks.
Avoid overcharging
Overcharging your battery can cause irreversible damage, so be sure to unplug it once it’s fully charged.
Manage your usage
If you need to travel farther than the maximum range of your scooter, consider splitting the total distance into several shorter trips. This will help extend the life of your battery.
The Bottom Line
When you own an electric scooter, knowing how to choose an electric scooter replacement battery is important as well as understanding how to maintain it. Li-ion and lead-acid batteries both have their pros and cons, so be sure to choose the right option for your needs.
Also, always remember the battery maintenance tips listed above to ensure that your electric scooter continues to perform optimally.
If you are wondering about the battery life of your scooter battery, feel free to read our article “How Long Does an Electric Scooter Battery Last?” to learn more.
Contact Power Mobility & Lifts today for all your electric scooter and lifts needs. We are an authorized dealer of trusted brands and provide installation, repair, and maintenance services for all types of scooters. Contact us today to learn more!
