In the power system of electric bicycles, the 18650 battery pack plays a key role. How many 18650 battery packs are required for an electric bicycle? The answer to this question is not fixed, as it is influenced by a variety of factors.
Characteristics of 18650 Batteries
The 18650 battery, a type of lithium-ion battery, offers several significant advantages. In terms of capacity, the mainstream range is from 1800mAh to 2600mAh, with higher capacities used for power batteries, providing long-lasting power support for devices. For example, the Xiaomi electric bicycle is equipped with 20 18650 lithium batteries, each with a capacity of 2900mAh. Under the conditions of a 75kg load and a 20km/h speed, it can achieve a range of 45 kilometers.
In terms of voltage, the commonly used rechargeable 18650 lithium batteries have a voltage of 3.6V or 3.7V, and they reach 4.2V when fully charged. In actual applications, the series and parallel combination of batteries determines the final voltage and capacity of the battery pack. For example, by connecting multiple 18650 batteries in series, the voltage of the battery pack can be increased; while connecting them in parallel increases the overall capacity of the pack.
Factors Influencing the Number of 18650 Batteries in Electric Bicycles
- Design Purpose and Performance Requirements of the Electric Bicycle
Different types of electric bicycles have different requirements for the number of battery packs. Electric bicycles designed for urban commuting typically prioritize comfort and range. If a long-distance commute is required, such as 50 kilometers or more on a single charge, a larger capacity battery pack is needed. For instance, if the 18650 battery used has a capacity of 2000mAh, a common 36V electric bicycle may require dozens of batteries to achieve a 50-kilometer range.
On the other hand, electric bicycles used for mountain biking or other specialized terrains not only require long range but also demand higher power output. To provide strong performance in complex terrain, a higher voltage and larger capacity battery pack is required, meaning more 18650 batteries are necessary.
- Impact of the Battery Management System (BMS)
The Battery Management System (BMS) is crucial for ensuring the safe and stable operation of the battery pack. A high-quality BMS can accurately monitor and manage the batteries, including overcharge protection, over-discharge protection, and temperature management. Different BMSs have varying performance and compatibility with batteries. A high-performance BMS can more efficiently utilize battery energy, reducing energy loss and, to some extent, lowering the need for a larger number of batteries. However, if the BMS is of poor quality, it may prevent the batteries from reaching their full potential, leading to the need for more batteries to meet the electric bicycle’s performance requirements.
- Vehicle Space and Weight Limitations
Electric bicycles have limited space to accommodate the battery pack, and the battery pack must be arranged in a reasonable manner. If the battery pack is too large or contains too many batteries, it may not fit within the available space on the bike frame. Additionally, the weight of the vehicle is another important consideration. Excessive batteries increase the weight of the bicycle, which can not only affect handling and maneuverability but also increase energy consumption, thus reducing the range. Some electric bicycles that prioritize lightweight design reduce the number of batteries by optimizing battery selection and configuration, ensuring that performance requirements are met while controlling the weight.
Apsen Technology’s Custom 18650 Battery Pack Solutions
In response to the diverse needs of electric bicycle manufacturers regarding 18650 battery pack configurations, Apsen Technology offers customized battery pack solutions, leveraging professional technology and extensive experience.
- Personalized Battery Pack Design
During the battery pack design phase, Apsen Technology’s professional team communicates closely with clients to fully understand the electric bicycle’s intended use, performance specifications, and spatial layout requirements. Based on this information, the required number of batteries, the series and parallel arrangement, and the overall structure of the battery pack are carefully calculated. A compact battery pack made of high-capacity 18650 batteries is designed to meet the daily commuting range requirements while ensuring the vehicle remains lightweight.
- Strict Quality Control and Safety Assurance
Throughout the production process, Apsen Technology adheres to strict quality standards. From selecting battery cells, they carefully choose suppliers who offer high-quality products, ensuring that each 18650 battery has stable performance and reliable quality. During the assembly process, advanced manufacturing techniques and equipment are used to ensure secure connections and good contact between batteries, reducing resistance and improving overall efficiency. Additionally, high-performance BMS systems are provided for the battery packs. These systems monitor parameters such as voltage, current, and temperature in real-time, and take protective measures in the event of any abnormalities, such as overcharging, over-discharging, or overheating. This ensures the safe operation of the electric bicycle.
- Efficient Supply Chain and Fast Delivery
Apsen Technology has an efficient supply chain system and has established long-term, stable partnerships with top-tier suppliers. This enables the company to quickly allocate resources and ensure timely supply of raw materials for 18650 battery pack orders. In the production process, through optimized workflows and efficient management, Apsen Technology ensures quick production. Whether it is a small batch or large-scale order, the company can complete production and delivery within a short time, meeting the manufacturing needs of electric bicycle manufacturers.
In conclusion, the number of 18650 battery packs required for an electric bicycle is influenced by various factors. Apsen Technology’s customized 18650 battery pack solutions provide electric bicycle manufacturers with one-stop service, from design to delivery, ensuring the production of high-performance, safe, and reliable electric bicycle products.