E-scooter 101: How Do Electric Scooters Work?
Understanding how an electric scooter works will help you make the most out of the micromobility vehicle.
The electric scooter has become integral to urban mobility in many cities. Like how young children became enamored with the manual version, the e-scooter captured the hearts of adult commuters.
But how does this micromobility flagship work? What are the inner workings that move the wheels, activate the brake, or facilitate a turn?
If you are considering getting one, it would benefit you to understand the machine’s basic operations. Below are the fundamentals of how an electric scooter like the Flash Motors Infinity X works.
How Does the E-scooter Work?
The main parts of an electric scooter include a battery, one or two motors, a throttle, and a controller. The battery is often considered the most critical component, followed closely by the motor.
A battery’s capacity decides the e-scooter’s maximum mileage per charge, and its output impacts the maximum speed. Hence, manufacturers focus their research and development (R&D) on improving battery technology.
The throttle on the handlebar serves as the primary input device for the micromobility vehicle. When the rider twists the handlebar, the throttle prompts the controller to command the battery to send electricity to the motor.
The motor utilizes this electric energy to rotate the gear, moving the wheels to propel the electric scooter forward. Moreover, the strength of the motor determines the scooter’s ability to go up inclines and significantly influences its top speed.
A single-motor e-scooter has one motor under the hub on the front or rear wheel hub. Meanwhile, the dual-motor version has one motor for both front and rear wheels.
Some electric scooters, especially older models, must be pushed off the ground with the rider’s foot to engage the motor. Fortunately, modern models, except for entry-level budget ones, can accelerate on their own with just a twist of the throttle.
There you have it, a brief introduction to how e-scooters work. Nevertheless, keep in mind that various innovative models can be found in the market thanks to technological advancements.
For instance, hyperscooters transcend the intended specs of the micromobility vehicle, inching closer to that of gasoline-powered scooters. The Infinity X is unmatched in terms of performance, with a 70-mile max range and a 75-mph top speed.
