Electric skateboards are trending the world over as an eco-friendly mode of transport. With the hike in fuel prices, many skateboard owners are switching to electric skateboards for close or long routes. Electric skateboards run on a battery, which makes it the most integral part of it. Choosing a battery can be crucial as it involves many factors including the usage of electric skateboard on the top. By knowing the dependency on the skateboard, an optimal battery can be chosen to obtain high performance.
Following is a comprehensive guide to electric skateboard batteries that has covered almost every aspect a distributor should know.
Common Types of Electric Skateboard Battery
The most common types of skateboard batteries are:
- Lithium-ion
These are the ones that are way much similar to the batteries used in phones and laptops. The features are:
- These are lightest in weight and easy to carry.
- The handling and care are easier.
- It has high energy density.
Electric vehicles (EVs) use Li-ion batteries called LiFePO4, easily rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. The features of LiFeP04 are:
- It has long life.
- These batteries are stable and safe.
- It has high energy density.
2. Lithium-Polymer (LiPo)
LiPo batteries are very similar to Li-ion batteries, but the key highlights are:
- It has a different electrochemical structure
- It needs careful handling due to more sensitivity than Li-ion ones.
- The power storage is up to mark.
- Performance of the skateboard is excellent.
Electric Skateboard Battery Packs
Battery packs in the electric skateboard are the main power source that provides strength and performance. Without the battery pack, the electric motor of the skateboard cannot function.
Some Commonly Used Electric Skateboard Battery Pack Configurations
The battery configurations in electric skateboards refer to the alignment and competition of batteries that help to power the skateboard. Following are some commonly used battery configurations in an electric skateboard.
· 10s2p electric skateboard battery
A 10s2p electric skateboard battery has a settling of the battery pack with 10 cells connected in series that utilizes the best voltage and 2p stands for 2 sets of 10 cells connected parallel to optimize the capacity. This configuration helps the skateboard to have an optimal speed, voltage, capacity, and range.
· 10s4p electric skateboard battery
The 10s4p electric skateboard battery has the best battery pack configuration with 10 cells connected in series that harness the ideal voltage (37 volts) and 4p stands for 4 sets of 10 cells connected parallel to optimize the capacity. This configuration helps the skateboard to have a more extraordinary speed, voltage, capacity, and range as compared to the 10s2p configuration.
· 10s5p electric skateboard battery
A 10s5p electric skateboard battery has a battery pack enclosed with 10 cells connected in series that uses the maximum voltage and 5p stands for 5 sets of 10 cells connected parallel to optimize the capacity. This configuration ensures the skateboard has a balanced speed, voltage, capacity, and range higher than 10s2p and 10s4p configurations.
· 12s6p electric skateboard battery
This distinctive battery pack is amazingly configured with 12 cells connected in series that harness the optimal voltage, and 6p stands for 6 sets of 10 cells connected parallel to optimize the capacity. This configuration is primarily installed in high-performance electric skateboards so that it provides range and power to the skaters.
Electric Skateboard Battery Capacities
The capacity of the electric skateboard battery plays a vital role in determining how far the skateboard will run on a single charge. The battery capacity of the electric skateboards depends on the style, make, and model of specific skateboards.
The unit in which electric skateboard batteries are measured is either in Watt-hours (Wh) or in Ampere hours (Ah).
The capacity of an electric skateboard also depends on the model of the skateboard; the following is the rough breakdown of capacities concerning models.
· Low-end models
The minimum level of battery capacity required for entry-level electric skateboards ranges from 100Wh to 200Wh. The range would help the electric skateboard commute for short trips or recreational use, like using it in the park, on pathways, and going to a bus station.
· Mid-range models
Mediocre models of electric skateboards need battery capacities ranging from 200Wh to 400Wh. Such capacity allows the skater to go for a decent range and is suitable for middle-level commutes.
· High-end models
As the name says, the high-end electric skateboard models need more capacity to commute, so the capacities of the skateboard batteries must range from 400Wh and can go above 1000Wh. Such accommodation offers longer routes and is for skaters who are comfortable commuting longer rides.
Average Range the Electric Skateboard Battery Gives…
There are so many factors on which the range of the electric skateboard depends. These factors involve the capacity of the battery, the power of the motor installed, the rider’s body weight, the skating route, riding style, and speed. As far as a typical electric skateboard battery ranges from 5 miles to 20 miles when it is charged once. But it can vary depending on the factors mentioned above. For example,
- The higher the battery capacity of the electric skateboard, the higher its range will be. Electric skateboard batteries with capacities of 400Wh and above tend to give longer ranges.
- If the motor’s power is strong, it will suck out most of the energy resulting in less range. So, choose the motor power wisely.
- If the electric skateboard owner is lean, the battery would give a better range, but if it is heavier, the battery would use more power to maintain the speed, thus reducing the range.
- Also, depending on rough paths consumes more power, resulting in less range than flat terrains that need less battery power.
- The rider’s riding style plays a role in the range of the skateboard. Aggressive and rapid braking and acceleration reduce the range.
- The age and condition of the battery also impact the range of the electric speed board.
- Extreme weather also has a direct impact on the performance of the battery. It affects the range which can be easily noticed by the user.
Link: https://e-skateboarder.com/batteries/
Voltage and Amperage
Voltage and amperage are two factors that are associated with the model of the skateboard and the type of battery installed in it. 24 Volts-48 Volts are the standard voltage reading for electric skateboards including the high performance ones.
10-30 amps is the amperage standard range but it also varies from model to model. The function of amperage is to maintain the current flow in the motor so that the electric skateboard has a sustained speed.
Average Charging Time of Electric Skateboard Battery
Charging time of the electric skateboard depends on many factors, some of which are as follows:
- High-capacity batteries need more time to get fully charged.
- The charger output also determines the time of charging. High output charges have less charging time and vice versa.
- The battery state plays a crucial role in charging. For instance, if the battery has almost drained the charging or gone off, it will take longer than usual to charge back fully.
- Lastly, the battery type also tells much about the charging time. Usually, electric skateboards have Lithium-ion or Lithium-polymer batteries, which generally take less time to get fully charged as compared to lead-acid batteries.
Average Discharge Rate
The discharge rate in batteries means the rate at which the battery releases its stored energy when charged for the purpose.
The standard discharge rate of an electric skateboard depends on the model, battery pack installed, and design. But for the idea’s sake, the general electric skateboard battery typically has a discharge rate ranging from 10C to 60C or above.
Here, “C” stands for the discharge rate concerning the capacity of the battery. For instance, if you have a 10Ah (ampere hour) battery with a 10C discharge rate, it means the battery will discharge 10 times (100 Amps) its capacity. It is derived as 10C x 10Ah= 100Amps.
Battery Management System (BMS)
The battery management system is one of the most essential components in electric skateboards and other electric vehicles (EVs). The purpose of this system is to determine and monitor the main functions of the skateboard. The parts BMS controls protect the type of battery installed in the skateboard, safety, longevity, and high performance of the battery pack installed in the electric skateboard.
Without a BMS, there is a higher risk of battery damage, a shorter lifespan, and a higher risk of dangerous situations. The main functions of skateboard BMS are:
- It monitors the voltage, current, and temperature of the battery and informs the skateboard owner about it.
- It indicates the battery’s charging state and informs about the remaining battery life.
- It balances the redistributing energy and ensures all the cells are equally charged.
- It prevents overcharging the battery.
- It monitors the temperature of the battery pack and engages in cooling it whole, sending the user an indication.
Safety Guidelines for Electric Skateboard Battery
To have a long skateboard battery life, one should keep the battery safe from potential hazards such as:
- As per the manufacturer’s recommendation, always charge the electric skateboard battery. Mostly, it is recommended to charge the battery before it completely drains out.
- The battery should be stored in a cool and dry place. There should be no exposure to dirt.
- Charge it regularly if the electric board is not used daily.
- Recharge the battery when it is at the level of 20-30%; this prolongs the life span of the battery.
- Check the battery health periodically with the skateboard app.
- Use the special charger that comes with the electric skateboard battery or the one recommended by the manufacturer.
- Use a surge protector when charging the battery.
Swappable/Exchangeable Battery Features
As the name suggests, swappable batteries are a pack of batteries that are fully charged in advance and are replaced when the installed battery of the electric skateboard runs out of charge. These batteries are easily placed by the skateboard owner and this option is best for those who travel on long routes through the skateboard.
Only some electric skateboard models have this option, so carefully select considering this feature.
Customization/DIY In Electric Skateboard Batteries
The standard customization/DIY a manufacturer can offer are:
- Capacity
- Increase in voltage according to the model.
- Swappable batteries option.
- Battery type suggested by the manufacturer.
- Smart batteries that are connected with phone apps.
- Fast charging capability.
How To Choose an Electric Skateboard Battery? Key Factors to Consider?
Finding the right battery for the electric skateboard is directly connected to the performance and range of the skateboard. The following are some essential steps to consider before buying a battery.
- The battery should be compatible with the model of the skateboard.
- The skateboard owner should know his attention span towards the care of the batteries and then select the type accordingly.
- The voltage should match the model of the skateboard.
- Estimate the usage of the electric skateboard then decide the capacity the battery should have.
- Calculate the estimated battery range, depending on the weight of the rider, average speed and terrain.
- Weight of the battery should match the model of the electric skateboard.
- Fast charging batteries are what distributors need in this era.
- Buy the battery from authorized manufacturers and suppliers.
- The batteries should be in warranty.
- Be within your budget and get what suits your electric skateboard the best.
- Investing in high-performance batteries can be cost-effective in the long run.
- Always get a battery with efficient BMS for safety purposes.
- Be aware of legal restrictions and regulations against some batteries in your region.
- Always buy a user-friendly and environmentally-friendly skateboard battery.
Replacing The Electric Skateboard Battery
The replacement of the battery depends on the type and model of the electric skateboard battery. However, the following are general guidelines for how and when to replace the battery.
When to Replace
- Range is the most initial indicator of a weak battery. So if the skateboard is not giving the range it used to, the batteries need replacement.
- Slow acceleration and reduction in top speed is another flag that indicates the battery status.
- Sometimes the skateboard went off suddenly even if there was adequate charging left in it. This indication also shows that the battery is gone.
- Leakage and a swollen battery is a sign of defection.
- Lastly, if the battery is long years old, replace it on your own.
How to Replace
- Battery manufacturer is the most reliable source who can guide the distributor in choosing the best battery for the electric skateboard.
- If you do it yourself, be cautious and use the necessary gear.
- Open the electric skateboard battery enclosure using the user manual and disconnect and remove the old battery.
- Replace the old battery with the new one precisely at the same place and reconnect the wires.
- Close the battery enclosure and dispose of the old battery safely.
Electric Skateboard Battery Upgradation
The battery upgrade is a great way to improve the range and performance of the old skateboard. Be mindful that upgradation must be done with the necessary skills and tools. The general steps for electric skateboard battery upgradation are:
- Check the battery’s compatibility with your current electric skateboard.
- Gather all the necessary tools needed.
- Disconnect and remove the old battery.
- Install the upgraded one in the electric skateboard battery enclosure and close it as needed.
- Test all the connections with a multimeter to see no loose wiring.
- Enclose the battery into the enclosure carefully.
- Make sure you have properly aligned all the parts.
- Test the battery in a controlled environment,
- Dispose of the old battery safely.
Regulations To Transport the Electric Skateboard On the Road Or By Air
Regulations On Roads
- Determine the size and weight of the electric skateboard and whether it can be carried in the car.
- Have the necessary information on the type of battery you are using that either it has to be removed or it can be reminded inside the skateboard while transporting.
- Carefully fasten the electric skateboard with the help of straps so that it does not fall and damage.
- Ensure the skateboard does not block your back view.
- Check the regulations of the city you are traveling to.
- Check the insurance before traveling so that you have coverage in case of damage.
Regulations For Air Travel
- Check with the airlines for the regulations beforehand to avoid any mishap during the travel.
- Check the electric skateboard battery regulations, as most airlines restrict battery capacity.
- Generally, you need to disassemble the skateboard battery so it does not pose a safety hazard during flight.
- Check the arrival destination policies and regulations for electric skateboards, as they might vary from city to city.
Battery Health Indicators
Following are some common battery health indicators that the owner should trust:
- The standard indicator is that the remote control or app will tell you the charge left in the battery.
- Monitoring the voltage can indicate the health of the battery.
- Monitor the capacity and see how much energy has been restored when fully charged.
- Keep track of the charge and discharge cycle.
- If you have been using the skateboard in extreme weather, keep a check on the battery the most.
- Charge the battery before it gets fully discharged.
- Overcharging can also impact on the health of the lithium-ion batteries.
- The battery with BMS systems installed in them is a better option as it helps in indicating the risks.
Water Resistance Rating in Electric Skateboard Batteries:
Water resistance in batteries is the most important component in electric skateboard batteries. When skateboard riders are riding on the roads, there is a chance that they can come across water too, which can impact the battery, motor, and inner components of the electric skateboard.
Above all, the internal parts of the skateboard are sensitive to moisture and can be affected badly. Even the exterior framing of the electric skateboard can become rusty over time.
Another thing that can be done with the skateboard battery is to waterproof it if it is exposed to water and rainy weather.
Battery Maintenance For Electric Skateboard
Proper maintenance of your electric skateboard battery is essential to care and helps the skateboard’s longevity and good performance. Following are some essential battery maintenance tips to give more life to your electric skateboard.
- Charge the battery regularly, even if the usage is occasional.
- Always use the original charger that comes with the skateboard battery.
- Avoid putting the skateboard in exposed sunlight or icy places.
- Inspect the battery periodically to see signs of any damage or swelling.
- Keep the battery connectors and charging ports clean from dirt and debris.
- Avoid overcharging.
- Avoid overloading the skateboard.
- Replace the battery if it is not giving up to mark range, capacity, power, and charging.
Warranty Options
Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries in electric skateboard ranges typically from 6 months to 2 years. Some premium quality models offer longer warranties.
For Lithium-polymer (LiPo) batteries, the warranty ranges typically from 3 months to 1 year. Some high-end models offer a 2-year warranty as well.
Future Battery Technology Trends In Electric Skateboard
The potential future battery technology trends can be:
Solid-state batteries are expected to be introduced in the future, which means the traditional lithium-ion batteries with liquid and gel-like electrodes will be replaced by solid electrolytes.
In the future, manufacturers might focus on the energy density improvement of the batteries to provide long-range power to the skateboard.
Fast charging in batteries might be introduced as time is the biggest constraint now.
Safety enhancements like self-healing, thermal management systems, and protection against short circuits, overcharging, etc. are expected.
Since it is now the era of compact and easy-to-carry things, electric skateboard batteries are expected to be lightweight and long-lasting, so there would be no frequent need for changing.
To become more hassle-free, wireless charges can be introduced to save time.
Due to the hazardous disposal, a lot is going on in the environment of the earth. In the future, environmentally sustainable batteries might be produced to make disposal much easier.
Manufacturers Support, Community Forums, and Resources
When the user buys the electric skateboard battery from the manufacturer, they usually offer them some form of support. This support includes:
- Warranty depends on the type of battery.
- Quick customer support
- Affiliate with the service centers to get immediate help.
- Offer replacement for damaged components.
- Provide a free guide for the safety hazards.
Besides this, the manufacturer also provides online support through FAQs, user manuals, and YouTube videos so that the user gets instant help. It is essential for owners who go for DIY electric skateboard battery packs.
Lastly, the manufacturer also maintains their presence on online forums and social media groups where it connects with users, retailers, and resellers to share experiences, feedback, and advice on anything related to the batteries.
Global Standards For Recycling And Disposal Of Batteries For Electric Skateboards?
Recycling or disposing of the old battery is a crucial duty towards the environment.
Here are some recycling options:
- Contact the local recycling or hazardous centers to recycle old batteries following the global standards.
- Ask the retailer in advance if they accept old/wasted batteries.
- There are battery recycling companies that accept electric skateboard batteries. These companies recycle as per the standard procedures without harming the environment.
Some of the disposal options are:
- Dispose of the battery as hazardous waste, labeling it through the proper channel. Don’t throw in regular trash.
- Some manufacturers or retailers offer trading programs where you can give up the old battery and take a new one at a discounted rate.
Conclusion
As of 2022, the global market value of electric skateboards was at $3.51 billion, and the projected market value by 2030 would be around $4.52. Due to the popularity of eco-friendly personal transport worldwide, the potential in this market is expected to remain high.
The battery is the most integral part of the ride in electric skateboards. Suppose you are a retailer, distributor, or reseller; in that case, we are hopeful that through this ultimate guide, you can get enough knowledge and make informed decisions regarding the electric skateboard battery selection.
FAQs
What are the key factors that make my electric skateboard battery last longer?
To extend the electric skateboard battery life, these three factors have to be addressed:
- Recharge the battery before it gets fully discharged.
- Keep your electric board in a cool, dry place to prevent heat damage.
- Inspect the battery periodically.
What is the proper care of your electric skateboard battery?
Charge the battery regularly even if you don’t use the skateboard every day.
Keep the battery charged at 50-70% consistently.
How do you maintain the battery health of an electric skateboard?
Avoid overcharging the battery or letting it fully discharge.
Keep the connections of the batteries cleaned from dirt and debris.
Are electric skateboard batteries made up of lithium or lead acid?
Typically, the electric skateboard batteries are lithium-ion batteries, not the lead-acid ones.
Can you ride an electric skateboard with a dead battery?
Obviously not!
The battery is the heart and soul of any electric skateboard.