Lead-Aid Batteries for Electric Scooters: Performance Metrics and Market Trends

5 月.14,2025

Lead-acid batteries have been a staple in the energy storage sector for decades, offering reliability and cost-effectiveness across numerous applications. In recent years, they have found a strong foothold in the electric scooter market. While lithium-ion batteries dominate the space for more high-performance electric vehicles, lead-acid batteries remain a popular choice for electric scooters, especially in developing regions, due to their affordability, robustness, and proven track record. This article will explore the performance metrics of lead-acid batteries in electric scooters, delve into the market trends, and discuss how they compare to alternative power sources like lithium-ion batteries.

1. Why Lead-Acid Batteries Are Used in Electric Scooters

Lead-acid batteries continue to be favored in electric scooters for several reasons:

1.1. Affordability

One of the key reasons for the popularity of lead-acid batteries in electric scooters is their lower upfront cost compared to lithium-ion batteries. For price-sensitive consumers, lead-acid provides an affordable alternative to more expensive lithium-ion systems. The cost-effectiveness of lead-acid batteries makes them especially appealing for scooters used in developing markets, where price constraints are a significant factor.

1.2. Reliability and Robustness

Lead-acid batteries are known for their durability and ability to handle tough conditions. They can withstand high temperatures, vibration, and shock, making them well-suited for electric scooters that may be subjected to rough roads and varied environmental conditions.

1.3. Easy Availability and Recycling

Lead-acid batteries are widely available and have a well-established recycling infrastructure, making them easier to replace and dispose of. This established supply chain and recycling network contribute to their widespread use, particularly in regions with limited access to newer technologies.

2. Performance Metrics of Lead-Acid Batteries in Electric Scooters

Lead-acid batteries are known for providing adequate performance, but their efficiency and capability are often considered lower than lithium-ion batteries. The main performance metrics of lead-acid batteries in electric scooters include:

2.1. Energy Density

Energy density is a crucial factor when assessing battery performance. It refers to the amount of energy a battery can store relative to its weight and size.

Lead-Acid: Lead-acid batteries typically have a lower energy density compared to lithium-ion batteries. This means that, for the same amount of energy storage, lead-acid batteries tend to be bulkier and heavier.
Lithium-Ion: In comparison, lithium-ion batteries have a higher energy density, allowing electric scooters to achieve better performance and longer ranges with a lighter weight.

As a result, scooters equipped with lead-acid batteries are typically heavier and may have a shorter range than those powered by lithium-ion cells.

2.2. Cycle Life

Cycle life refers to the number of charge and discharge cycles a battery can undergo before its capacity begins to significantly degrade.

Lead-Acid: Lead-acid batteries generally have a shorter cycle life than lithium-ion batteries, typically around 500-1,000 cycles depending on the type (flooded or sealed) and usage patterns.
Lithium-Ion: Lithium-ion batteries, on the other hand, can last 2,000-3,000 cycles or more, offering longer lifespan and better long-term value, despite their higher initial cost.

The shorter cycle life of lead-acid batteries means that electric scooter owners may need to replace their batteries more frequently, adding to the long-term maintenance costs.

2.3. Charging Time

The charging time of a battery is a critical factor in determining its convenience for everyday use.

Lead-Acid: Lead-acid batteries typically have a longer charging time, which can range from 6 to 10 hours depending on the battery’s size and charger specifications.
Lithium-Ion: Lithium-ion batteries charge much more quickly, with full charges taking 2 to 5 hours. Faster charging makes lithium-ion a more attractive option for users who need to quickly get back on the road.

2.4. Depth of Discharge (DoD)

The depth of discharge (DoD) indicates how much of the battery’s capacity can be safely used before it needs to be recharged.

Lead-Acid: Lead-acid batteries are more sensitive to deep discharge and can suffer from sulfation (a process that reduces battery capacity) if discharged too deeply. It is recommended to discharge lead-acid batteries to no more than 50-60% of their total capacity to maintain optimal lifespan.
Lithium-Ion: Lithium-ion batteries, on the other hand, can safely discharge to 80-90% of their capacity without significant degradation, offering more usable energy per cycle.

This means that while lead-acid batteries may provide shorter ranges per charge, they also require more careful usage to prevent damage.

3. Market Trends for Lead-Acid Batteries in Electric Scooters

Despite the increasing popularity of lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles (EVs) and e-mobility, lead-acid batteries still hold a considerable share in the electric scooter market, particularly in developing regions. Several market trends are shaping the future of lead-acid batteries in this sector:

3.1. Cost-Conscious Consumers in Developing Markets

In regions like Southeast Asia, India, and Africa, electric scooters are primarily seen as affordable transportation solutions. Lead-acid batteries, with their lower purchase price, are particularly appealing to consumers in these regions. The demand for electric scooters in these countries is growing rapidly, and lead-acid batteries continue to meet the need for affordable and reliable power sources.

3.2. Emergence of Hybrid Systems

To counter the performance limitations of lead-acid batteries, manufacturers are exploring hybrid systems that combine lead-acid with lithium-ion or other technologies. These systems aim to balance the affordability of lead-acid with the superior performance of newer chemistries, offering enhanced efficiency without sacrificing cost-effectiveness.

3.3. Focus on Recycling and Sustainability

Lead-acid batteries are among the most recycled consumer products in the world, with a recycling rate of more than 95%. As concerns about environmental sustainability grow, the focus on improving the recycling infrastructure for lead-acid batteries in electric scooters is becoming more important. Manufacturers are increasingly turning to environmentally friendly disposal and reuse techniques to ensure that end-of-life batteries are managed sustainably.

3.4. Longer Battery Life and Improved Charging Systems

In response to consumer demand for better performance and longer-lasting power, manufacturers are continuously working to improve the cycle life, charging time, and overall durability of lead-acid batteries. Advances in sealed lead-acid (SLA) and absorbed glass mat (AGM) technologies are helping to extend the lifespan and reduce maintenance needs.

4. Lead-Acid vs. Lithium-Ion: The Final Comparison

Feature	Lead-Acid Batteries	Lithium-Ion Batteries
Cost	Lower initial cost	Higher initial cost
Energy Density	Lower energy density	Higher energy density
Cycle Life	500-1,000 cycles	2,000-3,000 cycles
Charging Time	6-10 hours	2-5 hours
Depth of Discharge (DoD)	50-60%	80-90%
Weight and Size	Heavier and bulkier	Lighter and more compact
Durability	High, but affected by deep discharge	High, with less degradation in deep discharge

5. Conclusion

Lead-acid batteries remain a significant power source for electric scooters, offering cost-effective, reliable, and robust performance. While they come with some limitations in terms of energy density, cycle life, and charging time, their widespread availability and established recycling infrastructure continue to make them a valuable choice for affordable e-mobility solutions, especially in developing markets. As the electric scooter industry evolves, manufacturers may continue to innovate and integrate new battery technologies to improve performance, while keeping an eye on sustainability, cost-effectiveness, and consumer demands.