ONYX Battery Range

Battery Range Advancements

• ONYX RCR 45Ah Battery

This post aims to help you understand batteries that offer greater range. The idea of a large-capacity, low-quality battery providing more range simply doesn’t hold true. That’s why it’s crucial to distinguish between two batteries with identical capacities but significantly different ranges.

2024 has been revolutionary for battery technology, with major advancements in capacity and prices dropping by half. As many original ONYX batteries age out, ONYX Motors’ release of the 45Ah battery aligns perfectly with this year’s cutting-edge technology.

Battery Safety and Storage

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with ONYX battery safety and storage practices.

• ONYX RCR Battery Safety
• ONYX Winter Storage

Battery Dimensions

Using batteries like the Molicel P50B and Samsung 50S, both rated at 5000mAh, the maximum battery size that fits under the stock wood battery cover of an ONYX RCR is 45Ah. Any battery exceeding 45Ah that fits under the stock wood cover compromises build quality and safety.

Larger capacity batteries requiring a custom 3D-printed cover are available with a protective metal case. Those without a protective metal case should be avoided, as they compromise both build quality and safety.

Maximize Range

The range of the ONYX RCR is a fascinating topic, best understood by considering that it’s a powerful electric bike. Range depends on factors like battery quality, throttle habits, battery care, and whether you’re riding at top speed or tackling steep hills.

To maximize range during your commute, ease the throttle gently to reach 5 mph when the traffic light turns green, then gradually increase throttle. Hard acceleration from a stop consumes significantly more energy.

• A stationary object requires more energy to start moving than an object already in motion, as it must overcome inertia and gain kinetic energy to initiate movement.

Understanding Battery Range

The table below compares the Samsung 50S and Samsung 50E cells, both offering the same capacity. The Samsung 50S provides noticeably greater range due to its higher discharge rate and enhanced performance in temperature management and minimizing voltage sag compared to the Samsung 50E.

Range is Influenced by Cells and Build

A battery’s range is influenced by the individual cells it uses and the quality of the batteries construction (build). Even with a high-performance cell like the Molicel P50B, poor battery construction (build)-such as hot spots, small busbars, undersized wires, low-quality welds, poorly arranged plating, or excessively thin materials-can hinder the cell’s ability to deliver power efficiently while introducing unnecessary risks.

Unsuitable Cells

• The Samsung 50E is unsuitable for an ONYX as it fails to meet the expected performance standards due to its poor voltage sag and discharge temperatures.

Amp Hour Capacity

A 60Ah battery built with Samsung 50S cells will offer noticeably greater range, power, and longevity compared to a 60Ah battery constructed with Samsung 50E cells.

Cells and Build

When evaluating a battery build, both the choice of cells and the overall construction are equally important. Always consider both the cell and the build.

• Cell: The individual cells that make up the battery.
• Build: The quality of the battery’s construction surrounding the cells.

Battery Cells Age

All grade-A lithium battery cells naturally age over time, even while sitting on the shelf, and are typically downgraded to A- rating after three years. This aging process is separate from charge cycles.

The Right Battery Cells

Battery cells ideal for an ONYX should exhibit excellent temperature management, longevity, minimal sag, and strong performance in both testing and real-world use.

The Wrong Battery Cells

These cells have poor temperature management, significant sag, and limited longevity, making them unsuitable for an ONYX and best avoided.

• All 18650 and 21700 Cells Manufactured Before 2020
• Samsung 50E
• LG M50
• LG HG2
• Boston Swingcell (All)
• Off-Brand Cells
• Recycled Cells
• Mismatched Battery Cells
• Battery Cells from Amazon
• Battery Cells from Alibaba

Outlet Timer with Remote Control

• Timer Outlet with Remote Control

While you can leave your charger plugged in overnight, it’s always a good idea to use an outlet timer-just in case you forget!