Do you already ride an electric scooter or were you about to buy one? For fun or for daily commutes? You have surely wondered about the importance of charging time and its impact on battery life and longevity. It is important to know that the scooter charger plays a key role in the recharging process, allowing these batteries to be filled quickly and safely. But this is not the only factor influencing the recharge.
How long does it take to charge an electric scooter? Weebot answers you in this article.
Factors influencing the charging time of an electric scooter
The charging time of electric scooters varies depending on several key elements that it is important to understand to properly anticipate their use. These factors include the capacity of the battery, the type of charger used, as well as ambient conditions, such as temperature or humidity.
Battery capacity and type
The capacity of the battery, expressed in Wh, is the main determinant of the recharge time of an electric scooter. On average, an entry-level 300Wh battery will require between 4 and 6 hours of charging, while more advanced models, with batteries up to 500Wh, will take up to 10 hours to fully recharge. The type of battery used, lithium-ion or lithium-polymer, also influences the recharge time.
Charger power
The power of the charger, measured in Amperes (A), has a direct impact on charging time. The more powerful the charger, the faster the recharge will be. For example, on a Xiaomi Electric Scooter model, using a 5A charger halved the charging time compared to the standard charger. Fast chargers, often provided with high-end scooters, help minimize the time spent recharging.
Temperature and charging environment
Extreme temperatures, whether cold or heat, can negatively impact the charging process. This can be compared to a “cooled engine”: under ideal conditions, the battery will charge faster and more efficiently. It is therefore preferable to charge the electric scooter in a stable and temperate environment, protected from bad weather.
Steps for optimal charging
Once the main factors influencing charging time are understood, it is time to explore the steps necessary to recharge your electric scooter optimally and safely. Following these tips will help extend battery life and ensure efficient charging.
Preparation before charging
Before starting the charging process, it is recommended to allow the electric scooter to cool down for a few minutes after use. Also check the integrity of the charger and charging ports to avoid any risk of damage.
Connect the charger correctly
Once these checks have been carried out, you can plug the charger into a suitable electrical outlet. Make sure the connection is secure to prevent any risk of sparking or port damage. Carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding the charging procedure.
Battery care and maintenance for extended life
To prolong the life of the battery of your electric scooter, regular maintenance is essential. Here are some essential recommendations: make sure you recharge it correctly, avoid complete discharges, store it in a dry and cool place, and clean its connectors regularly.
Ideal charge cycle: between 30% and 80%
For lithium-ion batteries, the charging “sweet spot” is generally between 30% and 80% of total capacity. This type of charging cycle can in fact multiply the life of your battery by 4.
Regular cleaning and checking
Also remember to regularly clean the charging ports, check the integrity of the cables and make sure there are no potential oxidation or short circuits. These simple precautions will help preserve the condition of your battery over time.
Do not leave the battery connected continuously
Avoid leaving the battery permanently connected to the charger, especially overnight. Prolonged overcharging could lead to overheating and prematurely degrade your battery's performance.
Average charging time depending on electric scooter models
Having explored the main factors influencing charging time, let's now look at the differences in average durations across electric scooter segments. Indeed, each model, whether an entry-level or high-performance electric scooter, can have varied charging times, adapted to its specific characteristics.
|
Segment |
Average charging time |
Example models |
|
|
Entry level |
4 to 6 hours |
Xiaomi Essential, M365 |
|
|
Mid-range |
About 10 hours |
Kaabo Wolf Warrior X Plus, Dualtron Spider |
|
|
High-end |
13 hours and more |
Dualtron X Limited |
|
Note that the high autonomy electric scooters require a longer charging time.
Calculating the charging time of an electric scooter battery
The calculation to charge a battery from 0% to 100% is very simple; you need to know the amperage of your electric scooter battery: if we take 10Ah as an example for capacity, and your charger has a charging amperage of 2 amps, then in 5 hours it will be at 100%.
Lithium battery charging calculation: battery amperage ÷ charger output amperage = time in hours
Which charger to use for an electric scooter?
To optimize the charging of your electric scooter and extend the life of its battery, it is essential to select a compatible and suitable charger. An improper charger could not only reduce charging efficiency but also damage the battery in the long run. So choose carefully.
Standard chargers vs fast chargers
Standard chargers, supplied with most electric scooters, allow slow but safe charging, comparable to a conventional tank of gasoline. Conversely, fast chargers offer much faster charging, similar to recharging at a gas station.
Using smart chargers
Smart chargers, equipped with advanced charge management systems, are particularly recommended. They monitor the state of the battery in real time, adapt the charging power and stop recharging as soon as the battery is full. This helps optimize the process and avoid overloads.
FAQ
How long does it take to recharge an electric scooter?
The charging time of electric scooters generally varies between 3 and 8 hours, depending on the capacity of the battery and the power of the charger used.
Can we use a fast charger on all electric scooters?
Fast chargers are generally compatible with lithium-ion batteries, the most common on the electric scooter market. However, it is always best to check the manufacturer's recommendations to ensure compatibility.
What are some tips for extending the life of my battery?
To preserve the life of your electric scooter's battery, it is recommended to keep it between 30% and 80% charged, avoid extreme temperatures and not leave it permanently plugged in.
Conclusion
In summary, to optimize the charging time and lifespan of your electric scooter battery, it is essential to take into account the capacity of the battery, the power of the charger used, as well as the temperature conditions during charging. Regular maintenance and the use of a smart charger are also key. Among the high-performance models, we can cite the Dualtron X Limited for high-end users looking for power and autonomy.