Vélos électriques et hiver : comment protéger vos batteries pour une longévité maximale ? - Elwing

Electric bikes and winter: how to protect your batteries for maximum longevity?

October 25 2023, by ISAURE DUCROS, 2 min reading time

In winter, with low temperatures, the battery of your electric bike is under heavy demand and its autonomy can significantly decrease. Here are our tips for protecting them and ensuring maximum longevity.

Winter and its low temperatures are coming, the use and maintenance of your VAE (electrically assisted bicycle) and its battery may be modified during this period.

Battery and low temperatures

In winter, with low temperatures, the battery of your electric bike or cargo bike is under heavy demand and its autonomy can significantly decrease.

An outside temperature of 0°C can have an effect on your battery, causing it to lose up to 10% of autonomy and reducing the duration of your journeys.

Here are some tips for preserving your electric bike's battery life in cold weather:

Check that your battery charge rate is sufficient before embarking on a long journey.
Use a low assist mode.
Use the pedals more, which has the effect of requiring less assistance when going uphill or when you are loaded.

To maximize its lifespan, it is important to recharge your electric bike's battery regularly. Unlike some batteries, lithium batteries do not need to be completely discharged before being recharged.

Winterizing batteries electric bikes

If you do not want or cannot use your VAE during this period and in cold weather, an alternative is available to you.

You can choose to store your battery.

The storage of the The battery of an electric bike is essential to maintain its performance, its autonomy and extend its lifespan.

How to properly store your battery in winter?

If you plan not to use your VAE (electrically assisted bicycles) for an extended period (more than a month), here are the best practices to follow for optimal use:

Remove the battery and charge it to 75% capacity before storing it.
Store the charged battery in a dry place at a temperature between 16 and 23°C. The battery of your VAE is sensitive to both heat and cold.
Take care to recharge the battery approximately every month for 20 to 30 minutes to prevent it from completely discharging.

By following these storage and maintenance tips, your e-bike battery will stay in good condition during the winter and be ready to use when you decide to get back on the road!