Why does battery life decrease in winter?

The core reason is that most electric scooters (including electric vehicles) currently use lithium-ion batteries, whose chemical properties are significantly affected by temperature.

Reduced battery chemical activity:

In low temperatures, the electrolyte inside the battery becomes viscous, slowing the movement of lithium ions. This increases the battery's internal resistance, weakens its discharge capacity, and naturally reduces its usable capacity.

Energy used for self-heating:

To operate properly in low temperatures and prevent damage, many scooters' battery management systems (BMS) activate a "self-heating" function. This energy is also directly drawn from the battery itself, further draining the battery.

Increased air density:

Cold air is denser, resulting in slightly increased wind resistance during riding, requiring more energy to overcome.

Lower tire pressure:

Thermal expansion and contraction can cause tire pressure to decrease in winter, increasing friction with the road and increasing power consumption.

How much will the range drop?

This is a range, not a fixed value, but here's a rule of thumb:

General estimate:

In temperatures around 0°C, range typically drops to 70%-80% of what it would be at room temperature (around 25°C).

• For example, a scooter with a claimed range of 50km might only be able to travel 35-40km at 0°C.

Extremely low temperatures:

At -10°C or lower, range can plummet to 50%-60% of normal range, or even more.

Note: Officially advertised range is typically measured under ideal conditions and is inherently difficult to achieve in reality. Winter even further reduces this range.

How to cope with and extend battery life in winter?

While the laws of physics cannot be changed, there are some ways to minimize battery life degradation:

Keep the battery warm (most important!)

• Store indoors and access as needed: This is the most effective method. Never leave your scooter outdoors or in a cold car overnight. Try to fully charge your scooter indoors before use, and only take it outside at the last minute before departure.
• Use a thermal cover: There are battery covers designed for specific models that can effectively slow heat loss from the battery during riding.
• "Preheat" the battery: If conditions permit, start your scooter and idle it for a few minutes in a warmer area, such as indoors or in a basement, before setting off to warm the battery.

Riding habits

• Gentle riding: Avoid sudden acceleration and braking. Maintaining a steady, low to medium speed is the most energy-efficient way to conserve battery life. High speeds and frequent starting and stopping generate large currents, which can be very damaging to the battery in cold temperatures and significantly drain the battery.
• Leverage Kinetic Energy: Anticipate road conditions and use coasting to slow down, minimizing the need to brake and re-accelerate.
• Reduce Carrying Weight: If possible, reduce the weight of your belongings.

Charging and Maintenance

• Charging Indoors: Always charge the battery at room temperature. Charging at low temperatures is not only inefficient but may also permanently damage the battery.
• Charge as you use it, avoid over-discharging: Avoid using up the battery too much before charging in winter. It's recommended to charge the scooter when the battery level is below 30%-40% to maintain battery life.
• Long-Term Storage: If the scooter is not used throughout the winter, store it indoors and charge the battery to approximately 50%-70%. Check and recharge the battery every one or two months.

Summary

Finally, a reminder: Winter roads can be icy, snowy, and slippery. Besides focusing on battery life, safety is paramount. Always wear a helmet and other protective gear, maintain proper tire pressure, and ride with extreme caution.

We hope this information helps you better use your scooter in the winter!

https://www.kukirinscooter-uk.com