Scooter Batteries: Installing Power For Your Electric Bike

Electric scooter batteries can be installed in a few different ways, depending on the type of scooter and the type of battery. The scooter's charging system is usually located in the base of the scooter riding surface, with the batteries wired together with a fuse box and controller. The controller is a fundamental element, collecting energy from the battery and distributing it to the rest of the kit. The wiring will either be in series or parallel circuits, and the controller can be attached to the battery or independently. Some scooters can have an extra battery pack added, usually installed under the seat.

Where to find the scooter battery compartment

The scooter battery compartment can be found in different places depending on the scooter model. In some scooters, the battery compartment is located in the base of the scooter riding surface. In other models, the extra battery pack can be found under the seat. The scooter will have batteries wired together with a fuse box and the controller, which is usually mounted together.

How to wire the batteries

To wire scooter batteries to an electric bike, you will need to ensure that the voltage of the scooter battery matches the voltage required by the electric bike's motor. You should also check that the battery has a battery management system (BMS) that is compatible with your electric bike's motor controller. If it doesn't, you will need to install a BMS that matches your bike's requirements.

To wire the batteries, first disconnect the wire leads that connect the scooter's wiring to the battery's terminals. Then, use a Phillips screwdriver to connect the wiring leads to the battery's terminals, starting with the positive (+) lead followed by the negative (-) lead. Do not allow the negative (-) wire lead to contact the frame to prevent the risk of a serious electrical shock or short-circuit. Finally, replace the battery cover panel or close the seat.

How to charge the scooter

Charging your scooter is a simple process, but there are some important things to keep in mind to avoid damaging your battery. First, locate the charging port on your scooter. This is usually located on the bottom of the scooter. Power your scooter down and remove the protective cover on the charging port. Plug the charger into the port, making sure it is firmly connected. The charger will get hot during the charging process, which is normal, but make sure it is placed on a non-flammable surface with plenty of airflow.

You should charge your scooter until the indicator light on the charger turns green, then promptly disconnect. The light will usually turn green before the scooter is fully charged, so if you need maximum distance, you can continue charging until the battery display shows 100%. However, operating your battery between 30% and 80% of full charge will increase its lifespan. Once the scooter is charged, disconnect it from the charger first, then unplug the charger from the wall outlet. Always use the charger that came with your scooter, as using an incompatible charger can damage the battery.

How to add an extra battery pack

To add an extra battery pack to your electric scooter, you'll need to check that the voltage of the battery matches the voltage required by the electric bike's motor. You should also make sure that the battery has a Battery Management System (BMS) that is compatible with your bike's motor controller. If it doesn't, you'll need to install a BMS that matches your bike's requirements.

Before installing the battery, you'll need to open up the scooter battery compartment, which is sometimes located in the base of the scooter riding surface. The extra battery pack is usually installed under the seat.

Once the battery is installed, you should use a charger that matches the battery's chemistry (e.g. lead-acid, Li-ion) and ensure it's compatible with the voltage and capacity of the scooter battery to maintain safe charging practices.

After installation, it's important to test the scooter to ensure everything is working correctly. This can be as simple as turning on the scooter and checking the battery level indicator.

How to install the controller

Installing the controller is a critical step in ensuring your electric bike runs smoothly and safely. The controller is the "brain" of the bike, managing the signalling between the battery, motor, pedal-assist system, and other electronic components.

Before installing the controller, make sure that the battery power of the e-bike is completely disconnected to avoid the risk of a short circuit or electric shock. The controller of the electric bicycle is generally installed on the frame, under the seat, or next to the battery box. Find the installation location and fix the controller to the frame to ensure that it is firm and will not loosen with riding. Some frames will provide special fixing slots.

If you are replacing an old controller, you will need to put the new controller back into the controller housing, tuck the wires away, and then the black wires coming out will be centred. You will then notice an opening area on the front plate of the controller housing. Put the central wires in this area, click the front plate into place, and secure it with the screws provided.

After completing the installation, test whether all the functions of the electric bike are working properly. You can also use a multimeter to check the electric bike controller to make sure the connections are completely correct and safe. Check that each cable is firmly connected and in the correct position, especially the battery and motor cables, to ensure the correct polarity to prevent short circuits or overcurrent. Finally, reconnect the power supply and check whether the controller can be powered normally.

Frequently asked questions