Are 36v battery for eletcric bike really that bad? Don’t Worry, Not That Bad!

When you are on a budget and have a shortage of money, you really want to buy an electric bike with a 36V battery. I heard that a 48V battery is better. Really? Are 36V Ebikes that bad? In fact, they are not as bad as you think. Let’s analyze.

Is 36V Good for an Electric Bike

Voltage

A 36V battery has a voltage of 36 volts, while a 48V battery has 48 volts. The voltage affects the power and speed of the e-bike.

Higher voltage typically means more power and higher speeds.

However, voltage alone doesn't tell you everything about the battery's performance.

Capacity

Battery capacity is measured in ampere-hours (Ah) and watt-hours (Wh). A 36V 12.8Ah battery has a capacity of 460 watt-hours (Wh). This capacity is calculated by multiplying the voltage (36V) by the ampere-hours (12.8Ah).

💡 The formula is straightforward:

Wh = V × Ah. Therefore, 36V × 12.8Ah = 460Wh.

This capacity determines how long the battery can last on a single charge. The higher the capacity, the longer the range.

Configuration

A 36V battery, such as a 36V 12.8Ah, is likely configured as a 10S4P pack made from 3,200mAh cells.

💡 The "10S4P" configuration means the battery pack consists of 10 cells in series (10S) and 4 cells in parallel (4P).

This setup balances voltage and capacity. Series connections increase the voltage, while parallel connections increase the capacity.

To gauge its effectiveness, you should examine the current ratings, both maximum and continuous, for the battery pack.

If the battery is capable of delivering the wattage you require, it will perform adequately.

No clear? More explanation！

The total energy capacity of a 36V 12.8Ah battery configuration is 460Wh. This necessitates maintaining speeds below 20 mph if you aim to cover long distances. Excess battery power can be beneficial.

For instance, a 500W kit typically includes an 18A controller, resulting in peak power of 648W, which is within the battery’s capacity.

The 18A controller refers to the maximum current the controller can handle.

The controller regulates the power flow from the battery to the motor, ensuring smooth acceleration and deceleration.

An 18A controller means it can deliver up to 18 amperes of current to the motor. This is crucial for determining the peak power the e-bike can use.

With a 36V battery, an 18A controller allows for a peak power output of 648 watts (36V * 18A = 648W).

The battery's ampere-hour (Ah) rating indicates the battery's capacity. It measures how much charge the battery can hold. 

A 36V 12.8Ah battery can theoretically provide 12.8 amperes of current for one hour or 1.28 amperes for ten hours. 

The higher the Ah rating, the larger the capacity, which means longer range or duration of use before needing to recharge.

How the Controller and Battery Capacity Work Together

The controller and the battery capacity must be matched for optimal performance. The controller determines how much current is drawn from the battery, and the battery must be capable of providing that current without excessive voltage drop or overheating.

Longer Lifespan

When a battery has more capacity than is regularly needed, it doesn't have to work as hard to meet the power demands of the e-bike.

This means it undergoes less stress and strain during operation.

By not being pushed to its limits constantly, the battery experiences less wear and tear, which extends its overall lifespan.

In practical terms, a battery that isn’t frequently pushed to its maximum capacity will last longer before needing to be replaced.

SEE ALSO 36v Vs. 48v Batteries For Electric Bikes, Which One Is Better

Better Performance

With extra capacity, the battery can handle sudden increases in power demand without depleting too quickly.

When accelerating quickly or climbing steep hills, the e-bike requires more power.

A battery with excess capacity can meet these demands smoothly and efficiently, providing a boost in performance.

This means you can enjoy quicker acceleration and better handling of challenging terrains without worrying about the battery draining too fast.

Consistent Power Delivery

A battery with excess capacity can maintain a steady and consistent power output even under heavy load.

This ensures that the e-bike performs reliably and smoothly, providing a more enjoyable riding experience.

Without sufficient capacity, a battery might struggle to maintain power output under heavy use, leading to fluctuations in performance.

Consistent power delivery means fewer interruptions and a more dependable ride.

How Long Does a 36V E-bike Battery Last

The longevity of a 36V e-bike battery is influenced by several variables, including the riding conditions, the rider’s weight, and the battery’s quality.

Generally, a well-maintained 36V battery can last between 500 to 1,000 charge cycles, which translates to a lifespan of about 2 to 5 years.

The range you get per charge is equally important. A 36V 12.8Ah battery with a capacity of 460Wh can offer a respectable range.

The actual distance covered per charge will vary based on how you ride and how much you pedal.

The range of a 460Wh battery depends largely on two factors: how fast you ride and how much effort you put into pedaling.

If you ride at 20 mph on a flat road with moderate pedaling effort, you can expect an energy consumption of about 18-20 Wh/mi.

This translates to a theoretical maximum range of 23 to 25 miles.

It’s crucial to note that you should not run the battery down to 0%.

When the battery level drops to about 30%, you may start experiencing performance issues.

The Battery Management System (BMS) will shut down the battery if the voltage drops below a certain threshold to prevent damage to the lithium cells.

You can realistically use about 70-75% of the battery’s full capacity, bringing your maximum range closer to 20 miles.

Other factors, such as riding at high speeds or relying solely on the motor, can increase energy consumption to over 30Wh/mi, further reducing the range.

Can You Replace a 36V Battery with a 48V Battery on an E-bike

Replacing a 36V battery with a 48V battery on an e-bike is technically possible, but it requires careful consideration and possible modifications to your bike's electrical system.

The primary concern is whether the bike's controller and motor are compatible with the higher voltage.

A higher voltage battery can provide more power and speed, but it also means that the current components must be able to handle the increased voltage without overheating or getting damaged.

If your bike's controller is rated for 36V, switching to a 48V battery could cause it to fail. You might need to upgrade the controller and possibly the motor to ensure compatibility.

The wiring and connectors should be checked to ensure they can handle the higher current that comes with a 48V system.

Upgrading to a 48V battery can significantly enhance performance, offering faster acceleration and higher top speeds, but it also demands a thorough.

Conclusion

36V batteries are not as bad as they might seem. They offer a good balance between cost and performance for many e-bike riders. While a 48V battery might provide more power and longer range, a 36V battery can still be a viable option if managed properly. The key lies in understanding your specific needs and how to maximize the performance of your 36V battery.

FAQs

How do I maximize the lifespan of my e-bike battery?
To maximize the lifespan of your e-bike battery, avoid pushing it to its limits frequently.

Maintain moderate speeds, avoid deep discharges, and charge the battery regularly. Proper management and maintenance can significantly extend the battery's lifespan.

How long does a 36V e-bike battery last on a single charge?
The duration a 36V e-bike battery lasts on a single charge depends on various factors such as riding conditions, terrain, rider weight, and level of pedal assistance.

On average, a 36V 12.8Ah battery can provide a range of 20-25 miles per charge under moderate conditions.

Can I use a 36V battery with a more powerful motor?
Using a 36V battery with a more powerful motor is possible, but it depends on the motor's compatibility and the controller's ability to manage the power flow.

Ensure that the battery can handle the motor's power requirements without excessive voltage drop or overheating.