Electric scooter Li-ion batteries

Comparing Two-Wheeler Battery Technologies: Lead-Acid vs. Lithium-Ion

Battery packs are the most preliminary but crucial component of an electric two-wheeler.. They are the sources of power that do not hold electricity but contain chemicals that interact to produce the current. Depending on the different battery types, batteries can contain metallic compounds such as lead, sulfuric acid, lithium compounds, etc. 

The two most common batteries on the market are lithium-ion and lead-acid batteries. Despite the increasing prominence of lithium-ion batteries, the demand for lead-acid batteries persists in the market. The high preference of these batteries is due to their specific attributes. Through the following passages, we will explore the distinct attributes of these batteries and have a constructive comparison between them. 

Lead Acid Battery – A Detailed Summary

The lead acid battery generates electricity through lead and acid present in the battery. The most common acid used in these batteries is Sulphuric Acid (H2SO4). Their relatively inexpensive price and high energy density have provided them with a place in the market and a preference for electric two-wheeler riders. 

Acid, or in most cases sulphuric acid, is the electrolyte solution required to generate electricity through this battery. When charged, lead sulphate forms over the plate once the electric current flows through the battery. Further, the lead sulphate reacts with the sulphuric acid to produce electricity. 

They provide high surge currents, making them an attractive choice for motor vehicles. Their very construction makes them durable batteries and offers the vehicle owner a seamless and uninterrupted journey for a longer time. Despite the benefits, the owner of a lead-acid battery faces certain issues due to its disadvantages and should consider them while buying the same. 

Lithium-Ion Battery – An Overview

This rechargeable battery uses lithium-ion as the mobile ion. It is called a lithium-ion battery because lithium-based compounds are used to operate this battery. In most cases, the most common compound is lithium hexafluorophosphate. It has a high demand in the market despite its relatively expensive price for the quality it offers. 

Its vital components contain an anode, cathode, separator, and electrolyte. The anode and cathode store lithium in this battery and enable it to function seamlessly. The positive charge propagates its course from anode to cathode and vice-versa for a negative charge. With the same, the formation of currents and charges takes place that power the two-wheeler. 

Likraft’s LIBs offer a higher energy density that enables them to provide riders with more uninterrupted journeys. The low self-discharge rate of this battery provides an adequate power supply for smooth rides throughout the course and facilitates drivers with the needed comfort. Despite its high price, lithium-ion batteries offer longer cycle life, making them a better alternative. 

Weighing Similarities and Dissimilarities

Similarities

  • Both of these can be used to efficiently regulate both two-wheelers and three-wheeler vehicles. 
  • These are both rechargeable batteries and can be used for a longer tenure before any replacement is required. 
  • These batteries have different variants based on parameters like capacity, voltage, ampere hour, etc. 
  • The mode of operation of both batteries is the same, and current is generated using transmission of charge from anode to cathode or vice-versa. 

Dissimilarities

The following are the dissimilarities that make them unique choices for drivers:-

  • Energy Density

Compared to lead-acid batteries, Likraft’s lithium-ion batteries have a higher energy density. With the same, batteries run for a longer duration without the need for a recharge. The improved efficiency of the battery allows the rider to have a better experience. Higher energy density also makes lithium-ion batteries a better alternative for a sustainable future by decreasing the power consumption due to recharges required.

  • Self Discharge

Lithium-ion batteries with relatively low self-discharge hold the charge for a longer period than lead-acid batteries. With the same, promising attributes such as low maintenance, better performance, etc., also come along. 

  • Cycle Life

Cycle life means the recharge and discharge cycle a battery offers before the loss of its absolute workability. Lithium-ion batteries have a higher cycle life than lead-acid batteries. With the same, Likraft’s lithium-ion batteries have some promising qualities, like cost-efficient technology, better performance, and sustainability. 

  • Safety

Lead acid batteries contain a hyper-corrosive substance, making them an inferior option to lithium-ion batteries. So when safety is concerned, lithium-ion batteries superimpose lead-acid batteries. 

Concluding Remarks

Lithium-ion or lead acid batteries have their pros and cons, and one must make an appropriate assessment to make a sensible decision. Electric scooter Li-ion batteries have several attributes that make them distinct and have contributed to their rising demand. You can find multiple options from the panel of Likraft and have options varying from a 48v to 72v lithium ion battery for electric bikes.