Why Does the Charging Process for Electric Motorcycles Slow Between 80 and 100 Per Cent?
JAKARTA – Electric motorcycle users often notice that the charging process from 80 per cent to 100 per cent takes considerably longer compared to charging from low battery levels.
CEO of Indomobil Emotor, Pius Wirawan, explained that this is a normal mechanism related to battery protection systems.
Pius explained that in the final charging stage, the system deliberately slows the charging process to maintain battery cell balance.
He noted that electric vehicle batteries comprise many cells that work simultaneously. Each cell must charge evenly to maintain battery performance and longevity.
“There are many battery cells, typically around 20 to 24 cells on average. For example, in a 72V 30A battery, the peak voltage can reach approximately 76.4 volts. If one cell becomes full first, during fast charging the system detects the battery is already full. That is why charging from 80 to 100 per cent is usually made slower so that power distribution can be even,” he said.
According to Pius, electrical voltage in Indonesia is not always stable, so the charger system must operate more carefully.
“Second, concerning the stability condition of electrical voltage in Indonesia which is not always stable. Have you never noticed lights suddenly dimming at night? If you use a voltmeter, you will see that what should normally be 220 volts can sometimes drop to around 200 volts. That is why sometimes people feel their air conditioning or refrigerator is not cold enough,” he explained.
Because of this, the charging system in electric motorcycles is equipped with safety mechanisms to keep voltage within safe limits.
He added that communication between the battery, controller, and charger is also very important in the charging process.
“If there is no communication between the battery, controller, and charger, current can continue to flow, causing heat. When heated, the battery cells consisting of cathodes expand. As a result, their molecular structure no longer remains in standard condition.”
For this reason, Pius clarified, the charging process from 80 per cent to full capacity is deliberately made slower. The purpose is not only to ensure all cells charge evenly, but also to maintain safety and extend the lifespan of the electric motorcycle battery.