The two main types
Most e-bikes and scooters in Pakistan use either a lithium battery or a lead-acid battery. 'Graphene' batteries sold in the market are usually an improved type of lead-acid battery, not a completely different technology.
Lithium
- Much lighter, so the bike is easier to handle and goes further on the same charge.
- Usually lasts more charge cycles if it is looked after.
- Costs more upfront.
- Needs a good BMS (protection board) and the right charger. Cheap packs with poor cells can be unsafe.
Lead-acid and graphene
- Cheaper to buy and widely available.
- Heavy, which reduces range and makes the bike harder to push.
- Usually needs replacing sooner, especially if it is often run flat.
- Doesn't like being left discharged. Charge it after every use.
What about price?
Prices change often and depend on voltage (48V, 60V, 72V) and capacity (Ah). As a rough guide, lead-acid and graphene packs usually cost noticeably less than lithium packs, and lithium packs can cost several tens of thousands of rupees. Always check current prices with two or three sellers before you decide.
Avoid fake and recycled cells
There are lithium packs in the market built from old or scrap cells and sold as new. They may work at first and then lose range or fail within months, and some can overheat.
- Buy from a seller who gives a written warranty and a receipt.
- Ask the voltage, capacity and cell type, and make sure it matches your bike and charger.
- Be careful of prices far below everyone else's.
- Get the new battery fitted and tested by a mistri who knows e-bikes.