What is a motor?
The motor of an electric scooter can control the speed and direction according to the user’s operation, and is one of the core components of an electric scooter. The motor of an electric scooter is usually a brushed motor or a brushless motor, which is powered by a battery to drive the scooter forward.
What types of motors are there?
There are two types of motors commonly used in electric scooters: brushed motors and brushless motors.
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Motor type
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Brushless motor
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Brushed motor
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Appearance time
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More advanced models
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The earliest electric scooter motor
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Cost
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Higher (about $200 – $300)
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Lower (approximately $100 – $150)
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The cost varies according to the power, speed and torque of the motor.
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Efficiency
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80-90%
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75-80%
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Lifespan
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Longer (approximately 10,000 hours)
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Shorter (approximately 5,000 hours)
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Maintain
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Low (no brush replacement required)
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Higher (brush wear)
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Noise level
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Low (smooth operation)
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Higher (due to brush friction)
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Speed control
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Precision (better speed control)
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Not very precise
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Torque
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High (consistent torque)
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Variable (torque fluctuation)
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Model
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Most high-end electric scooters
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Low-cost models
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Brushed motor
Brushed motors are the oldest form of motor technology, first appearing in the early 1800s. This type of motor was the first commercial application of converting electrical energy into mechanical energy. Brushed motors have been widely used in commercial and industrial applications for nearly 140 years.
In a brushed DC motor, mechanical brushes move along the inside of the motor, energizing alternating coils and causing motion. However, over time, these brushes can wear out due to friction, causing unstable voltage that can be dangerous.
Brushless motor
Brushless motors have digital switching circuits that replace mechanical parts, making the motors more efficient, durable, and better performing. These motors are also called electronically commutated or BLDC motors and are preferred over brushed motors.
They are less prone to overheating and run more quietly, making them widely used in most electric scooters and other electrical applications.
Motor Power
Electric scooter motor power is measured in watts (W). The wattage stated on the motor is the amount of power the motor can consume. A motor with a higher power rating means it consumes a lot of energy in a short period of time. This also means the motor is powerful because the more energy the motor consumes, the more mechanical power it produces. With more power, the motor will accelerate faster, support heavier riders and climb steep hills.
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Motor power
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Applicable scenarios
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Recommendation
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250+ W
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Use on flat terrain
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350-500 W
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For moderate slopes and faster acceleration
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500-750 W
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For hill climbing and higher speeds
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750-2000 W
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For top performance and climbing steep hills
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What is motor torque?
The motor torque of an electric scooter is a measure of the force required to push the wheels forward. It is one of the important parameters of the motor’s output power and one of the important indicators of motor performance. It is usually measured in lb-ft or Nm. Pushing the accelerator causes the motor to rotate the shaft, generating force to push the scooter forward. The greater the motor power of the electric scooter, the greater the torque. Torque is a key factor affecting the performance of an electric scooter. The greater the torque, the faster the acceleration and the stronger the climbing ability.
Type of torque
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Torque type
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Definition
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Applicable terrain
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Value points
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Continuous torque
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The ability of an electric scooter to continuously provide a certain amount of torque during operation without causing overheating or damage to the motor.
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Flat ground
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How much torque can the motor maintain for a longer period of time to keep the vehicle running smoothly and avoid losing power or overheating.
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Peak torque
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The maximum torque that a motor can produce in a short period of time.
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Accelerating from a start or climbing a steep slope
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Choosing an electric scooter with good peak torque can better handle sudden acceleration or rough terrain
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Stall torque
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The amount of torque an electric scooter’s motor can produce when it is stopped or stalled.。
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Overcoming obstacles or stopping
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Stall torque ensures your electric scooter can smoothly pass obstacles or stop quickly when it comes to a stop.
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How to choose an electric scooter with the best torque
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Overview
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Analysis
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Evaluation torque specifications
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Find information on continuous and peak torque as well as stall torque.
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If you want a scooter with more power and faster acceleration, choose an electric scooter with higher torque.
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Consider individual needs
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Consider your weight and the terrain you ride.
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– If you are larger or need to climb steep hills, you may need an electric scooter with more torque, especially at higher speeds;
– If you are lighter and ride mainly on flat terrain, a vehicle with less torque may be more suitable for you.
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Select the torque requirement that matches your intended application.
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– Commuting or city travel
– Highway or off-road
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– If you are only using it for commuting or city travel, you may need an electric scooter with a lower top speed and more torque;
– If you plan to use it on the highway or off-road activities, it may be more appropriate to choose a model with a higher top speed and less torque.
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How to maintain an electric scooter motor?
The motor of an electric scooter is usually one of the most reliable parts and does not require frequent maintenance. Most electric scooters are equipped with brushless DC motors that require almost no maintenance. If your motor does not turn, there may be a problem with the controller or battery. Here are some suggestions for maintaining your electric scooter motor.
1. Avoid abusing your electric scooter, do not drive it at the highest speed continuously, and try to avoid climbing too steep hills.
2. Regularly check the motor of your electric scooter for abnormal noise, heating or other problems, and repair and replace it in time.
3. Try to avoid using your electric scooter in a humid environment to prevent the motor from getting wet and damaged.
How to tell if your electric scooter’s motor needs to be replaced?
The lifespan of an electric scooter motor varies depending on the type, frequency of use, and maintenance. Generally speaking, a brushless motor can last for several years if well maintained. If there are a few signs that your motor may need to be replaced:
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Abnormal situations
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Specific manifestations
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Motor wear
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Abnormal noise from motor
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If the motor makes unusual noises, such as grinding or clicking
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Motor overheating
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Overheating during use
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The motor runs unsteadily and continuously
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If it loses power while riding, or doesn’t start easily, this could indicate a problem.
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While these problems can sometimes be caused by other components, such as the battery or controller, if those components have been checked and are functioning properly, then the problem is most likely with the motor.
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Conclusion
Hope that through the introduction of this article, you have a deeper understanding of the motor of the electric scooter. The motor of the electric scooter is its core component, which directly affects the performance and use experience of the scooter. Choosing the motor type and power that suits your needs is an important factor to consider when using an electric scooter. Hope you can travel more safely, conveniently and comfortably when using an electric scooter. Wish you a smooth journey in the world of electric scooters and enjoy the fun of free riding!
