The main power source for electric tricycles is the battery. Most electric tricycles use lead-acid batteries, so battery life directly affects the tricycle's range. Battery maintenance can be approached from the following six aspects:
1. Correctly control charging time: The optimal charging time is when the battery's depth of discharge reaches 60%-70%.
2. Avoid storing batteries in a discharged state: A discharged state refers to a battery that has not been charged promptly after use. Storing batteries in a discharged state easily leads to sulfation, where lead sulfate crystals adhere to the plates, blocking ion channels, causing insufficient charging and a decrease in battery capacity. The longer the battery is left idle in a discharged state, the more severe the damage. Therefore, when the battery is not in use, it should be recharged once a month to maintain its health.
3. Avoid high-current discharge: When starting, carrying passengers, or going uphill, use pedal assistance to avoid sudden high-current discharges. High-current discharges easily lead to lead sulfate crystal formation, thus damaging the physical properties of the battery plates.
4. Prevent Excessive Sun Exposure: High temperatures increase internal battery pressure, forcing the pressure relief valve to open automatically. This directly increases water loss, leading to decreased battery activity, accelerated plate softening, and fatal damage such as casing overheating, bulging, and deformation during charging.
5. Avoid Overheating of the Charging Plug: Loose charger plugs and oxidation of contact surfaces can cause the charging plug to overheat. Prolonged overheating can lead to a short circuit, directly damaging the charger and causing unnecessary losses. Therefore, if these issues are observed, remove oxides or replace the connector promptly.
6. Regular Inspection: If the electric vehicle's range suddenly drops by several kilometers within a short period, it's highly likely that at least one battery in the battery pack has a short circuit due to a broken cell, softened plates, or shedding of active material. In this case, promptly take the battery to a professional battery repair shop for inspection, repair, or replacement. This will extend the battery pack's lifespan and minimize costs.