Electric Scooter Controller: How Does It Work?
Understanding how an electric scooter controller works will help you make the most out of your micromobility vehicle.
The controller is the brain of the electric scooter, coordinating the other parts to optimize the riding experience. Learning about it will allow you to take better care of your micromobility vehicle, extending its longevity.
What is an E-scooter Controller?
The electric scooter controller (ESC) regulates the speed of the motor and manages the regenerative braking capabilities. Upon receiving the rider’s input through the throttle, the ESC controls the electric current flow to the motor.
A controller is rated based on its current (in amperes) and voltage (in volts). A higher rating enables the controller to operate more powerful e-scooters like performance scooters and hyperscooters. Below are the minimum controller specs for each electric scooter type:
- Budget: 36V and 10A
- Single Commuter: 48V and 25A
- High-Performance: 52V and 25A
- Extreme Performance: 60V and 40A
- Hyperscooter: 100V and 400A
The Flash Motors Nano Elite AI-powered controller debuted at CES 2024 as the most cutting-edge ESC in the market. It provides advanced temperature control and overcurrent safeguards and comes in an IP54 enclosure. Moreover, it equips an e-scooter with various AI capabilities, including adaptive cruise control, predictive maintenance alerts, and automatic collision avoidance.
The Nano Elite lineup comprises three ESCs:
- X3K: 4,500W
- X5K: 14,000W
- X28K: 28,000W
How Does an Electric Scooter Controller Work?
An ESC is a microcomputer running firmware to control the e-scooter. It processes input signals from various parts of the electric scooter to deliver the rider’s desired outcome. By sending high-frequency signals to the motor, the controller regulates the electric scooter’s acceleration, deceleration, and braking. It also displays information in the display interface to assist the rider in maneuvering.
Recent advancements in e-scooter technology, particularly in AI, brought more attention to the controller. As a result, increased investment accelerated the development of ESC innovations. Industry experts anticipate semi-autonomous riding capabilities to become widely available in the next two years.
