The stated range of an e-scooter is not a fixed value. Understanding how it is determined allows for a realistic assessment of its everyday use – and enables targeted maximization.
⚡ Note: Manufacturer figures are usually achieved under ideal conditions. In everyday driving, depending on your driving profile , 20–35% less is often realistic – but with the right strategy, you can recoup many kilometers.
Manufacturer's range vs. real-world range: the crucial difference
Range figures are almost always based on ideal conditions: constant speed, flat terrain, optimal rider weight, a new battery, and mild temperatures. In practice, these values often deviate – not because the scooter is bad, but because everyday use doesn't happen in a laboratory.
💡 Reality check: When planning for mixed use, often aim for 20–35% less than the best value – and be happy if you exceed it.
The 6 crucial factors for maximum reach (explained in practical terms)
🔋 1) Compare battery capacity correctly: Wh instead of just Ah
Many people only compare batteries based on Ah (ampere-hours). Energy in watt-hours (Wh) is more meaningful:
🧮 Volt (V) × Ah = Wh
Wh shows you how much energy is actually in the battery – ideal for comparison.
When comparing two models, Wh is usually a better guideline than Ah alone.
⚙️ 2) Engine efficiency instead of just engine power
A more powerful engine doesn't automatically mean higher fuel consumption. The crucial factor is the interplay between the engine, controller, and tuning. Efficient systems deliver power more smoothly, avoid unnecessary peaks, and can thus stabilize range.
✅ Pro tip: Don't just ask about "watts", but also about the tuning – a properly tuned drive system runs more smoothly and efficiently.
🚀 3) Speed: the biggest lever for range
Air resistance increases dramatically with speed. That's why "going a little faster" often consumes a surprisingly large amount of battery power.
- 🌬️ Air resistance increases disproportionately – especially above 35–45 km/h.
- 📉 A 20% reduction in speed can result in up to 35% more range, depending on the route.
⚠️ Range trap: Frequent full throttle + strong acceleration = quickly empty battery (even with a large battery).
🧍♂️ 4) Driver weight and payload
More weight increases energy consumption – especially when starting and on inclines. As a rule of thumb:
- 📦 For every 10 kg of extra weight, a reduction of 3–6% in range is often realistic (depending on the route and driving style).
❄️ 5) Temperature and battery behavior in winter
Lithium batteries prefer moderate temperatures. In cold weather, their usable power decreases because the internal resistance increases and the voltage drops more significantly. Depending on the temperature and load , up to 30% of the range can be lost in winter.
🥶 Winter shortcut: Store the battery at a comfortable temperature and only insert it shortly before driving – this often results in a noticeably greater range.
🧠 6) Driving style and (if applicable) recuperation
The biggest range boost often comes not from hardware, but from habit: gentle acceleration, anticipatory coasting, and consistent driving. Regenerative braking can also help, but is most effective in stop-and-go traffic and on downhill slopes.
✅ Targeted reach extension: Professional tips that work immediately
- Accelerate gently instead of constantly "pulling forward".
- Maintain a constant speed – fewer changes = less fuel consumption.
- Check tire pressure monthly (too little pressure = significantly less range).
- Do not constantly let the battery drop to 0% and do not leave it at 100% for weeks.
- Store and charge at a moderate temperature if possible in cold weather .
- Use Eco mode if you want maximum mileage.
These points are simple, but extremely effective – and often the difference between reaching the goal “barely” and “easily”.
🏁 Conclusion: Reach is not a marketing metric – but a predictable quantity.
If you correctly interpret manufacturer specifications and understand the key range factors, you can use your e-scooter much more efficiently. With the right speed, good battery maintenance, and a clean riding style, you'll get noticeably more kilometers per charge in everyday use.
✨ Simply put: You gain range not only when you buy something – but with every drive.
