Views: 0 Author: Z-MOTOS Publish Time: 2025-07-15 Origin: WUXI Z-MOTOS VEHICLE CO., LTD.
The evolution of electric two-wheelers (e-bikes, e-scooters, and motorcycles) hinges critically on battery technology. While lead-acid batteries have dominated for decades, lithium-ion (Li-ion) solutions now offer compelling alternatives. This article dissects their differences across performance and sustainability.
| Parameter | Lithium-ion Batteries | Lead-Acid Batteries |
|---|---|---|
| Energy Density | 150–250 Wh/kg | 30–50 Wh/kg |
| Cycle Life | 800–1,000 cycles (80% capacity) | 300–500 cycles |
| Charging Time | 4–6 hours | 6–8 hours |
| Efficiency | 95–98% | 70–85% |
| Operating Temp. | -20°C to 60°C (Heating needed below 0°C) | -20°C to 40°C (Better low-temp tolerance) |
| Self-Discharge | 1–3% per month | 5–15% per month |
Lithium-ion:
Weight & Space: 70% lighter and 50% smaller for equivalent capacity, enhancing vehicle agility and range.
Power Output: Delivers steady voltage under load, maintaining speed during acceleration.
Deep Cycling: Withstands daily deep discharges (e.g., 80% DoD) without significant degradation.
Lead-Acid:
Cold Weather: Loses only ~20% capacity at -20°C vs. >30% loss in Li-ion.
Safety: Less prone to thermal runaway; vented designs prevent gas buildup.
Environmental Impact:
Li-ion: Recyclable (Li, Co, Ni recovery > 90%), but mining raises ethical concerns.
Lead-Acid: 99% recyclable, yet improper disposal contaminates soil/water with lead and sulfuric acid.
Safety:
Li-ion: Requires Battery Management Systems (BMS) to prevent overcharge/thermal runaway.
Lead-Acid: Robust against overcharging but leaks corrosive acid if damaged.
Choose Li-ion if:
Prioritizing range/weight (e.g., performance e-motorcycles).
Fast charging is essential (e.g., delivery scooters).
Operating in mild climates.
Choose Lead-Acid if:
Budget constraints dominate (e.g., entry-level e-bikes).
Riding in sub-zero temperatures.
Safety-critical uses (e.g., fire-sensitive environments).
Li-ion prices have fallen 89% since 2010 (BloombergNEF), narrowing the gap with lead-acid. Emerging tech (e.g., LFP chemistry) enhances safety, while sodium-ion batteries promise ultra-low-cost alternatives. Nevertheless, lead-acid remains relevant for niche applications due to its reliability and recycling infrastructure.
Conclusion
Lithium-ion batteries dominate modern electric two-wheelers with superior energy density, longevity, and efficiency. However, lead-acid retains a role where cost and extreme-temperature performance are paramount. As recycling tech advances and prices drop, Li-ion’s supremacy will likely consolidate—ushering in lighter, smarter, and greener urban mobility.
| Lithium battery | Lead-acid battery | |
| Energy density | 150~250 Wh/kg | 30~50 Wh/kg |
| Small size, light weight, suitable for mobile devices | Bulky, takes up a lot of space | |
| Lifetime | 800~1000 times | 300~500 times |
| Deep discharge does not affect life | Deep discharge will significantly shorten life | |
| Charging speed | 4~6 H | 6-8 H |
| Support fast charging technology | Fast charging can easily lead to plate sulfation | |
| Cost | about ¥0.8~1.2 yuan/Wh | about ¥0.3~0.5 yuan/Wh |
| Dangerous Goods, High transportation costs | Normal goods | |
| Large initial investment | Low purchase cost | |
| Low temperature performance | Poor (-20℃ capacity decay>30%) | Strong (-20℃ capacity decay about 20%) |
| Heating system required | Good low temperature resistance | |
| Safety | Risk of thermal runaway, BMS protection required | Strong stability |
| High temperatures and impacts may cause fire | Short circuit only generates heat, not easy to burn | |
| Self-discharge rate | Low (monthly self-discharge <3%) | High (monthly self-discharge 5%~15%) |
| Low power loss during long-term storage | Regular recharging is required |
