Types of Electric Scooter Batteries

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Updated March 31, 2023

There are a number of different types of electric scooter batteries, each with its own unique benefits and disadvantages. Keep reading on to learn more about this, and don’t forget to check out the top-tier e-scooters on the market today.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • There are numerous types of electric scooter batteries out there, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
  • The most popular battery found with e-scooters is the lithium-ion battery, which is considered to be light, reliable, and fast charging.
  • Other battery types include sealed lead-acid batteries, which are extremely heavy, and nickel-metal hybrid batteries.

What is an Electric Scooter Battery?

Electric scooters do not need to use conventional fuel in order to operate. Instead, they use a battery that stores energy and feeds that energy to the motor and the scooter’s other components. These scooter batteries can generally be plugged into a standard wall outlet at home or while out and about. In addition, the weight of electric scooters depends on the size of their battery, as well as other components like the motor and frame.

However, some electric scooters can offer higher top speeds, especially those with more powerful motors, making them ideal for even longer trips where higher e-scooter speed is desired.

This makes electric scooters great for those looking to save money on fuel and reduce their environmental impact. In fact, for those interested in knowing where can you buy an electric scooter, many online retailers offer them for sale.

Insider Tip

Lithium-ion batteries are not just popular with scooters but can be found in laptops, electric bikes, mobile phones, and just about every other kind of modern gadget.

The Different Types of Electric Scooter Batteries

There are a number of different kinds of scooter batteries, and some of the more popular options are described below. You may also be wondering about what other wattages for electric scooters exist.

Lithium-ion Batteries

This is the primary type of battery that can be found in most modern electric scooters. Lithium-ion batteries are not just popular with scooters but can be found in laptops, electric bikes, mobile phones, and just about every other kind of modern gadget. They have become so popular because they are extremely light when compared to other battery types. Additionally, lithium battery packs can store more hours of electricity when compared to other types. The downside with lithium batteries is that they can degrade rather quickly and are extremely sensitive to high temperatures. But hooked up to the right type of e-scooter motor, you get high overall performance. If you are looking to make your own eScooter, check out our page on why to use a 24-volt electric scooter motor.

Although, improperly vetted lithium-ion batteries can explode, which will easily set an electric scooter on fire. This may be a reason why electric scooters are bad, according to some people, but it is important to know that this is not a common problem with reputable brands. Moreover, if you find your electric scooter won’t move, make sure the battery isn’t acting up. Otherwise, you’ll need to know where is the ID number on your electric scooter to get maintenance done on it.

Insider Tip

Sealed lead-acid batteries were the first rechargeable batteries to be invented, making them extremely popular for a number of use-case scenarios.

Sealed Lead-Acid Battery

Sealed lead-acid batteries were the first rechargeable batteries to be invented, making them extremely popular for a number of use-case scenarios. They can often be found in golf carts, electric automobiles, and other large electric vehicles. They are extremely reliable, making them a common choice for heavier-than-average scooters. Sealed lead-acid batteries are extremely heavy, however, so they will not be found in many modern and light scooter designs. Additionally, these batteries take much longer to recharge than lithium batteries. Keep in mind that it’s also good to learn how to test an electric scooter battery if you haven’t already.

Nickel-Metal Hybrid Battery

Nickel-metal hydride batteries (also known as NiMH) are an extremely safe option for scooter manufacturers, as they have never had issues catching fire, as was the case with lithium batteries. They boast an average weight when compared to other battery types and fewer materials. The downsides of NiMH batteries are that they take a long time to charge and they do not excel with extreme temperatures. The voltage output with these batteries will decrease if it becomes too hot or too cold. They can also become permanently damaged if a consumer tries to use them in some unofficial quick-charge capacity.

Warning

The downside with lithium batteries is that they can degrade rather quickly and are extremely sensitive to high temperatures.

F.A.Q.

Can you replace electric scooter batteries?

Yes, you can buy a replacement battery and perform the procedure yourself, though it may take some tools and some time. You should be sure to buy the same type of battery that was previously used in your scooter.


Are replacement batteries worth the cost?

This will be up to the individual and the cost of the scooter itself. Replacement batteries can be expensive, as they often cost anywhere from one-quarter to one-half of the price of the scooter itself.


Are electric scooter batteries safe?

Yes, in most cases. Several years back, cheaply sourced lithium batteries were known for catching on fire, but that issue has since been resolved. Modern scooters tend to use much more reliable lithium batteries.



STAT: It takes a lot longer for lithium-ion batteries to lose their charge (only about 5% per month), compared to 20% loss per month for nickel-metal hydride batteries. (source)

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