Lead-acid and Lithium-ion batteries for electric bikes in China: Implications on the future growth of electric-drive vehicles

Jonathan X. Weinert and Andrew F. Burke, Institute of Transportation Studies University of California Davis

Keywords

batteries, electric bicycles, electric vehicles, valve-regulated lead-acid, lithium-ion

Abstract

Alternative fuel use in China has been rising since the late 90’s with the rapid transition to electric bikes. The electric bike market reached nearly 16 million bike/yr in 2006 and is expected to maintain double-digit growth over the next 5 years. E-bike growth has been in part due to improvements in rechargeable valve-regulated lead acid (VRLA) battery technology. Further improvements in technology and a transition from VRLA (the dominant e-bike battery type) to lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries could have a large impact on the future market growth of this transportation mode in China and abroad. It may also affect the future of battery-powered electric cars.

The paper first introduces the battery industry in China and the two main battery technologies for e-bikes: VRLA and Li-ion. Battery performance and cost for these two types are compared in order to assess the feasibility of a shift from VRLA to Li-ion battery e-bikes. The paper then discusses how batteries are used in electric vehicles (EV) compared to the requirements of e-bikes. Through this comparison, we evaluate the potential for the growing e-bike market in China to enable a transition to small personal electric cars. Critical barriers to this transition are identified.

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