Electric Vehicle Battery Showdown: Lead-Acid vs. Lithium

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Electric scooters and other light electric vehicles (LEVs) are a popular mode of transport, especially in China. Choosing the right battery is crucial for performance and user experience. This article compares the two main battery options: lead-acid and lithium.

Lead-Acid Battery: Affordable yet Outdated

Pros:

Lower Cost: Significantly cheaper than lithium batteries, making them attractive for budget-conscious consumers.
Safety: Generally considered safer due to the absence of flammable materials present in lithium batteries.
Cons:

Poor Durability: Shorter lifespan compared to lithium batteries, requiring frequent replacements.
Limited Range: Lower energy density translates to shorter travel distances on a single charge.
Bulkier and Heavier: Requires larger frames to accommodate the battery size, affecting vehicle weight and maneuverability.
Lithium Battery: Superior Performance at a Cost

Pros:

High Durability: Lasts significantly longer than lead-acid batteries, reducing replacement frequency.
Extended Range: Offers greater travel distances on a single charge due to higher energy density.
Lightweight and Compact: Smaller size and lighter weight compared to lead-acid batteries, improving vehicle handling and efficiency.
Cons:

Higher Cost: Lithium is a scarcer resource, making lithium batteries more expensive than lead-acid alternatives.
Summary:

While lead-acid batteries are cheaper and considered safer, their drawbacks in terms of durability, range, and weight make them a less favorable choice for modern electric vehicles. Lithium batteries, despite the higher cost, are the preferred option due to their superior performance in all other aspects. As technology advances and lithium becomes more readily available, the price gap is expected to narrow, further solidifying lithium's dominance in the EV market.