Electric scooters have become increasingly popular in recent years. However, their effectiveness and lifespan depend on proper charging and care. In this blog post, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to charge your electric scooter correctly. Whether you are a seasoned electric scooter rider or a beginner, this blog will help you get the most out of your electric scooter while minimising damage and extending its lifespan.

Table of Contents

• Charging Stations in Nepal
• Charge Electric Scooter at Home 
• How to Charge your Electric Scooter at Home?
• Charging Time
• Tips and Tricks for Better Scooty Charging 
• FAQs on Charging Electric Scooter 

 Charging Stations in Nepal

Finding a charging station for your electric scooter can be a headache, especially in Nepal where charging stations are limited. As per the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA), the Kathmandu Valley currently has around 20 electric vehicle charging stations, and the government has plans to install more in the near future. 

The Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has launched the “Electric Mobility Project” which aims to set up 50 electric vehicle charging stations across the country by 2025. With projects like these, the future of electric vehicles in Nepal is slowly improving. 

Charge Electric Scooter at Home 

Unlike what most people think, most electric scooters do not need a charging station to charge up. Majority of them can be charged like mobile phones in your home, office, or anywhere with an electrical outlet. 

To get started, check your scooter’s voltage and amperage requirements, and make sure you have a suitable charging outlet that supports the requirements. If you need a specialised charging outlet, consider getting one installed. 

Once you have the right outlet, connecting your scooter to the charger and plugging it in is a breeze. With a little planning, you can keep your scooter charged and ready to go at all times.

How to Charge your Electric Scooter at Home?

Charging your electric scooter at home is quite an easy process. 

Step 1: Check the Battery Level

Before you start charging your scooter, check the battery level to see how much charge is left. If the battery is completely dead, it may take longer to charge, and you may need a different charging method to restart the scooter. 

Step 2: Connect the Charger

Connect the charger to the scooter and the charging outlet. Make sure that the charging cable is securely connected to both the scooter and the outlet.

Step 3: Wait for the Battery to Charge

Once the charger is connected, check the indicator that confirms the battery is connected, a light on battery or in the display panel of the scooter. Then, you can wait for the battery to charge. The charging time for your electric scooter will depend on the battery size and charging capacity of your scooter. Calculate when the battery will be fully charged and put a reminder.

Step 4: Disconnect the Charger

Once your scooter is fully charged, disconnect the charger from the scooter and the charging outlet. Even if your charger will be disconnected automatically, make sure it is not connected to the power outlet. 

Charging Time

When it comes to electric scooters, charging time is an essential factor that can affect your travel plans. Let’s break it down into simple terms.

What is charging time? 

Charging time refers to the time it takes for your electric scooter to get fully charged. The charging time depends on the battery size and charging capacity of your scooter. 

Normal charging time of Electric Scooters

Typically, electric scooters take around 4-12 hours to charge fully, depending on their battery size and charging capacity.

Fast Charging

You can also charge your electric scooters faster with the Fast Charging feature if you are in a rush and don’t have time to wait for hours to charge your scooter. 

Fast charging allows you to charge your scooter in a shorter time, cutting down the charging time by up to 50% compared to regular charging. Not all electric scooters come with this feature. 

How to Calculate your Charging Time?

Now, let’s talk about calculating your scooter’s charging time. It’s a simple calculation: divide the battery size (measured in Watt-hours, or Wh) by the charging capacity (measured in Watts, or W). 

Charging Time (hours) = Battery Size (Wh) / Charging Capacity (W)

For example, if your scooter’s battery size is 360 Wh and the charging capacity is 60 W, the charging time would be 6 hours (360 Wh / 60 W = 6 hours).

Knowing your scooter’s charging time can help you plan your trips better and avoid running out of battery power midway. So, make sure you calculate your scooter’s charging time and plan accordingly!

Tips and Tricks for Charging Electric Scooters

Battery, just like any other parts of an electric scooter, wears out upon daily use. But we can charge it properly to keep it healthy for a longer period. Here are some tips and tricks that you need to know for better electric scooty charging. 

Regular Charging 

Just like how your body needs good hours of sleep to recharge daily, your electric scooters also need daily charging for optimum performance.

Avoid Overcharging 

Batteries respond negatively to overcharging and deep discharge. Overcharging can damage your battery and reduce its lifespan. Once your scooter is fully charged, disconnect the charger to avoid overcharging.

Avoid Extreme Hot or Cold Temperature

Keep it cool! Just like how you prefer a cool environment, your electric scooter battery also performs better in a cool and dry place. Avoid leaving your scooter in direct sunlight or freezing temperatures, as it can affect the battery performance and lifespan.

Use the right charger

Always use the charger that came with your scooter or a charger that is recommended by the manufacturer. Using the wrong charger can damage your battery and reduce its lifespan.

Battery level between 20-80%

Don’t let your battery level go below 20% or exceed 80%. Keeping your battery level between 20-80% will help you get the most out of your battery and extend its lifespan.

Choose Scooters with good BMS

One of the factors to consider while buying an electric scooter is to look for a good Battery Management System (BMS), which can help optimise the performance and lifespan of your electric scooter’s battery. A BMS monitors the battery’s temperature, voltage, and current, and ensures that it is charged and discharged safely and efficiently. 

Conclusion

Congratulations, you’re now a pro at charging your electric scooter! By taking a few simple steps like charging regularly, using the right charger, and keeping your battery at the right temperature, you can make sure your electric scooter is always ready to hit the road. Just like any other vehicle, proper maintenance and care can make a huge difference in the performance and lifespan of your scooter.

FAQs on Charging Electric Scooter 

Q: How often should I charge my electric scooter?

A: It’s a good idea to charge your electric scooter after each use or when the battery level drops below 20%. This will help ensure that your battery stays healthy and lasts longer.

Q: How long does it take to charge an electric scooter?

A: The charging time for your electric scooter can vary depending on the battery size and charging capacity of your scooter. Typically, it can take anywhere from 4-12 hours for a full charge.

Q: Can I charge my electric scooter overnight?

A: Absolutely, you can charge your electric scooter overnight. However, it’s important to unplug the charger once the battery is fully charged to avoid overcharging, which can damage your battery.

Q: Can I use a different charger to charge my electric scooter?

A: We recommend using the charger that came with your scooter or a charger recommended by the manufacturer. Using a different charger can damage your battery and reduce its lifespan.

Q: Can I fast charge my electric scooter?

A: If your scooter supports fast charging, then yes, you can fast charge it. Fast charging can reduce the charging time by up to 50% compared to regular charging. However, keep in mind that fast charging can generate more heat and put more stress on your battery, so it’s best to use it sparingly.

Q: Can I charge my electric scooter outside in the rain?

A: It is not recommended to charge your electric scooter outside in the rain or other wet conditions, as this can be dangerous and potentially damage your scooter’s battery and electrical components.

Q: How do I know when my electric scooter is fully charged?

A: Many electric scooters have an indicator light that shows the charging progress. Once the light turns green, it means that your scooter’s battery is fully charged and ready to go.

Q: What should I do if my electric scooter battery is not holding a charge?

A: If your electric scooter battery is not holding a charge, there may be an issue with the battery or charging system. It is recommended to contact the manufacturer or a professional technician for assistance and repair.