The power requirements of a hub motor depend on several factors, including the weight of the vehicle it is driving, the speed and torque required, and the efficiency of the motor. In general, more powerful hub motors will allow for higher top speeds, faster acceleration, and the ability to move heavier loads, but they also tend to be larger, heavier, and more expensive.
For most small electric bikes and scooters, a 250-1000W hub motor should provide enough power. This can propel a 100-300-pound vehicle up a hill at 15 to 30 miles per hour. For larger cargo e-bikes, trikes, and small electric motorcycles, 1,500 to 5,000 watts or more may be required to achieve realistic speeds and acceleration under load. Very light, efficient hub motors may require as little as 200 watts to operate, but only to power an e-bike or small scooter at moderate speeds on flat ground.
As we know from our long-term practice, hub motors may run beyond their rated power during operation. This can then cause it to draw more current, which can easily lead to overheating and damage to the motor's windings, bearings, and other components. In addition, running a motor at more power than its rated power may also cause it to run faster than it was designed for, which can lead to increased wear on the motor's components. However, higher power over extended periods can generate excessive heat, which can reduce efficiency and life. It is best to choose a hub motor rated for the sustained power level required, with some overhead for climbing and acceleration.
In addition to pure power, the torque rating is important for hub motors because it indicates the amount of torque that makes the wheels spin and propels the vehicle forward. More torque helps with faster acceleration and climbing steeper hills.
In summary, the power required for a hub motor depends on the balance between performance requirements, practical efficiency, and cost considerations. For small electric bicycles and scooters in flat areas, a low-powered hub motor can meet the usage requirements. For vehicles that require speed, acceleration, or hill-climbing capability, more power is required.
Leave A Comment