Interesting facts about batteries & recycling

The eBike Battery Guide

Find a dealer

Range Calculator

Interesting facts about batteries & recycling

The eBike Battery Guide

Find a dealer

Range Calculator

Bosch batteries and chargers

More energy for your rides

Bosch batteries are the energy sources for eBikes. They combine enormous mileage, long service life and low weight (approx. 5.5 to 9.7 lbs) with ergonomic design and easy handling. The high-quality lithium-ion batteries are equipped with a Battery Management System: this continuously monitors the battery, detects potential error sources and protects the cells from overload as best possible.

Powerful in every design

Four battery positions

 

Frame battery

Sporty and dynamic: The PowerPack is a frame battery that is mounted close to the center of gravity and ensures optimum weight distribution.

Sporty and dynamic: The PowerPack is a frame battery that is mounted close to the center of gravity and ensures optimum weight distribution.

Rack battery

Conveniently comfortable: The rack battery frees up space, making it easier to mount and dismount with step-through models. 

Conveniently comfortable: The rack battery frees up space, making it easier to mount and dismount with step-through models. 

Integrated battery

Stylish and elegant: The PowerTube integrates perfectly into the frame design, giving your eBike a clean look.

Stylish and elegant: The PowerTube integrates perfectly into the frame design, giving your eBike a clean look.

DualBattery

Twice the energy: The combination of two Bosch batteries delivers up to 1,250 Wh, ensuring a longer range. Ideal for long-distance commuters or cargo riders.

Twice the energy: The combination of two Bosch batteries delivers up to 1,250 Wh, ensuring a longer range. Ideal for long-distance commuters or cargo riders.

The benefits

Reasons to choose eBike batteries from Bosch

LI-ion batter icon

No memory effect

Bosch batteries with lithium-ion cells can always be charged even for a short time if desired, regardless of their charge level. Interruptions in the charging process do not harm the batteries. Complete discharge is not necessary.

 

Very low self-discharge

Start-up is possible without recharging the battery even after prolonged storage, e.g. during the winter. For longer storage, a charge level of approx. 30 to 60% is recommended. Charging is also recommended after an extended storage period.

Clock icon

Long service life

Bosch batteries are designed for many trips, miles and years of service. The intelligent electronic Bosch Battery Management System (BMS) protects against excessive operating temperatures, overloading and deep discharge. The BMS checks every single cell and thus makes the battery even more durable.

Battery level icon

Rapid charging

Bosch Chargers are available in various sizes and power levels and allow quick charging as needed.

eBike icon with an arrow pointing towards it

Easy to remove

A few simple steps are all it takes to remove a Bosch battery. The battery can therefore also be charged or stored away from the eBike. Among other things, this makes use in winter easier. Since the battery delivers less power at low temperatures, it should be stored at room temperature in winter until shortly before the ride.

Competent service

Whether for personal advice, regular software updates, service requests or comprehensive all-round checks: together with the dealer's eBike experts, we make sure you enjoy a special riding sensation.

Checklist icon

Safety

With a combination of various technological safety mechanisms, additional tests, and a high degree of automation in production, Bosch sets standards in battery safety. The entire Bosch eBike system is certified to UL 2849, which is a standard covering the electrical system of eBikes powered by a lithium-based, rechargeable battery.

Operating principle of a lithium-ion battery

A lithium-ion battery generates electromotive force by displacing lithium ions. When riding, the electrons migrate from the negative anode via the drive unit to the positive cathode. The lithium-ions are responsible for balancing. When charging, the reverse process takes place.

Bosch batteries 

Powerful in every design

 

Bosch eBike PowerPack 545

PowerPacks

Sporty and dynamic: The PowerPack is a frame battery that is mounted close to the center of gravity of the bike and ensures optimum weight distribution.

  Compact Charger  Standard Charger Fast charger
PowerPack 400 50% in approx. 2.5 h,
100% in approx. 6.5 h
50% in approx. 1.5 h,
100% in approx. 3.5 h
50% in approx. 1 h,
100% in approx. 2.5 h
PowerPack 500 50% in approx. 3.5 h,
100% in approx. 7.5 h
50% in approx. 1.7 h,
100% in approx. 4.5 h
50% in approx. 1.2 h,
100% in approx. 3 h
  4A Charger
PowerPack 545
Frame
50% in approx. 1.8 h,
100% in approx. 4.9 h
PowerPack 725
Frame
50% in approx. 2.3 h,
100% in approx. 6 h
Bosch eBike PowerTube 500

PowerTubes

Stylish and elegant: There are two versions (horizontal or vertical) of the PowerTube, which are installed directly by the manufacturer depending on the geometry – for more variety in eBike design.

  Compact Charger Standard Charger Fast charger
PowerTube 400 50% in approx. 2.5 h,
100% in approx. 6.5 h
50% in approx. 1.5 h,
100% in approx. 3.5 h
50% in approx. 1 h,
100% in approx. 2.5 h
PowerTube 500 50% in approx. 3.5 h,
100% in approx. 7.5 h
50% in approx. 1.7 h,
100% in approx. 4.5 h
50% in approx. 1.2 h,
100% in approx. 3 h
PowerTube 625 50% in approx. 4.2 h,
100% in approx. 8.8 h
50% in approx. 2.1 h,
100% in approx. 5.4 h
50% in approx. 1.4 h,
100% in approx. 3.7 h
  4A Charger
PowerTube 500 50% in approx. 1.7 h,
100% in approx. 4.5 h
PowerTube 625 50% in approx. 2.1 h,
100% in approx. 5.4 h
PowerTube 750 50% in approx. 2.3 h,
100% in approx. 6 h
Bosch eBike Dual Battery

DualBattery

Your eBike is powered for even longer with the DualBattery* option. By connecting two Bosch eBike batteries, you get double the energy content of up to 1,250 Wh.

  Compact Charger Standard Charger Fast charger
DualBattery 50% in approx. 8.4 h,
100% in approx. 17.6 h
50% in approx. 4.2 h,
100% in approx. 9.8 h
50% in approx. 2.8 h,
100% in approx. 7.4 h

* Not available in combination with PowerPack 300 and PowerTube 400.

Calculate eBike range

The range of Bosch rechargeable batteries is dependent on various factors. You can use the Range Assistant to calculate the range under different conditions.

To the Range Calculator

Tips and tricks to maximize range

Cadence

Cadence

Cadences above 60 rpm optimize the efficiency of the drive unit. In contrast, very slow pedaling costs the battery more energy, especially in high gears.

Weight

Weight

The weight should be minimized so that the total weight of the bike and load are not unnecessarily high.

Starting & braking

Starting & braking

Just like with a car, frequent starting and braking are less economical than riding long distances at a steady speed.

Gear shifting

Gear shifting

Correct gear shifting also makes riding more efficient: It is best to start and climb hills in low gear, shifting up according to the terrain and speed. The computer provides shift recommendations for this.

Tire pressure

Tire pressure

The rolling resistance can be minimized by the correct tire pressure. Tip: In order to maximize the range, inflate the tires to the maximum permissible tire pressure.

Motor performance indicator

Motor performance indicator

Monitor the motor performance indicator of the Intuvia, Kiox or Nyon computer and adapt your riding style accordingly. A long bar means high power consumption.

Battery & temperature

Battery & temperature

As the temperature falls, the performance and range of a battery is temporarily reduced, as the electrical resistance increases. Therefore, in cold temperatures, a temporary decrease in the usual range is to be expected.

Care and use

Care and use

The service life of a Bosch eBike battery can be optimized with the right handling and care. For this, the instructions for cleaning as well as for storage when not in use for a longer period of time must be taken into account.

Tip: The plug connections should be occasionally cleaned and lightly greased.

Handling, care and transport

Charging on the eBike

PowerPacks and PowerTubes are particularly easy to charge directly on the eBike itself. You just need to plug the charger's charging plug into the charging socket in the battery mount and the power plug into the wall outlet. Done. Charging should be carried out in a dry environment and at room temperature with an installed smoke detector.

Charging on the eBike

PowerPacks and PowerTubes are particularly easy to charge directly on the eBike itself. You just need to plug the charger's charging plug into the charging socket in the battery mount and the power plug into the wall outlet. Done. Charging should be carried out in a dry environment and at room temperature with an installed smoke detector.

Charging the removed battery

If the battery cannot be charged directly on the eBike, the PowerPack and PowerTube can also be easily removed.

Charging the removed battery

If the battery cannot be charged directly on the eBike, the PowerPack and PowerTube can also be easily removed.

Removal and insertion

The Bosch batteries are seated securely in their mounts even when riding on uneven terrain. However, they can be removed quite easily for storage or charging: Simply open the lock and remove the battery from the mount.

Bosch batteries can also be reinserted just as easily and intuitively thanks to their low weight, handy dimensions and the precise fit of the battery and mount. The battery engages positively in its holder and thus sits firmly in the frame or on the eBike.

Handling

The Bosch battery is an important eBike component. Its service life can be optimized with proper handling and care.

Cleaning & care

A damp cloth is suitable for cleaning the battery. Plug connections should be occasionally cleaned and lightly greased. The battery must be removed each time before the eBike is cleaned. To protect the electronic components, the batteries must not be cleaned with direct water jets or even high pressure.

Storage during winter

Store batteries in a dry place at room temperature. Fully charged and fully discharged mean more stress for the battery. The ideal charge level for extended storage periods is
approx. 30 to 60% or two to three illuminated LEDs on the battery display.

Winter use

During winter use (particularly below 0 °C (32 °F)) we recommend charging and storing the battery at room temperature before inserting the battery in the eBike immediately before riding it. For longer journeys in the cold, it is recommended to use thermal protection covers.

Transport

Lithium-ion batteries store large amounts of energy. Therefore, some precautions must be taken during transport. Ideally, the battery should be discharged to approx. 30% before transport and only fully recharged at the destination.

Travel by car

If the eBike is transported with a bike carrier, the battery must be removed beforehand and stowed safely in the car.

Travel by air

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has banned the transport of eBike batteries on passenger aircraft. We recommend renting a Bosch eBike battery at your destination. Check in advance whether the airline transports eBikes without a battery.

Travel by train

In trains with bicycle compartments, most eBikes can usually be taken along without complications. An extra bike ticket and space reservation for the eBike are often required. The eBike battery must remain securely mounted during the journey and must not be charged. Before starting your trip, you should ask the respective service provider about the exact transport conditions. In some cases, it is not possible to take eBikes on all routes.

Travel by local public transportation and long-distance bus

In local public transportation systems, for example, light rail services, it is often possible to purchase a bicycle ticket to take eBikes on board outside of the regional blocked periods. It is advisable to check with the respective transportation authority before traveling. The transport of eBikes on long-distance buses is regulated differently depending on the provider. Here you should inquire in good time before starting your journey.

Good to know

eBike batteries are hazardous goods and can't be sent in the post. Taking your eBike battery on the plane is also not permitted.

▶ Tip: If you can't take your eBike with you, simply hire one at your destination.

Service life

The service life of Bosch batteries is mainly influenced by the type and duration of use. Like any lithium-ion battery, a Bosch battery ages naturally, even when it is not used. It loses capacity over time.

Factors that shorten the service life:

  • Heavy-load use

  • Storage above 30 °C (86 °F) ambient temperature

  •  Prolonged storage in fully charged or fully discharged state

  •  Parking the eBike in direct sunlight

  • Regular complete emptying of the battery when riding

Factors that extend the service life:

  • Low-load use

  • Store and charge the battery at moderate temperatures – ideally at room temperature

  • The ideal battery charge level is between 30 and 60%

  • Parking the eBike in the shade or a cool location indoors

 

Sustainable use of raw materials

Recycling

The carbon footprint of an eBike is largely determined by the production, use and recycling of the battery. The longer an eBike is used and the more trips with other modes of transportation it replaces, the better for the environment. To ensure that valuable raw materials can be reused at the end of its service life, the battery must be recycled properly.

More information

Sustainable use of raw materials

Recycling

The carbon footprint of an eBike is largely determined by the production, use and recycling of the battery. The longer an eBike is used and the more trips with other modes of transportation it replaces, the better for the environment. To ensure that valuable raw materials can be reused at the end of its service life, the battery must be recycled properly.

More information

When the battery performance drops

Replacement or repair?

eBike batteries are wearing parts and all lithium-ion batteries lose capacity over time. For safety reasons, faulty, old or 'worn out' batteries should not be repaired or refreshed, but should be recycled appropriately. What's more, for your safety Bosch also strongly advises against having batteries repaired. If a battery is faulty, you must completely replace it instead.

When the battery performance drops

Replacement or repair?

eBike batteries are wearing parts and all lithium-ion batteries lose capacity over time. For safety reasons, faulty, old or 'worn out' batteries should not be repaired or refreshed, but should be recycled appropriately. What's more, for your safety Bosch also strongly advises against having batteries repaired. If a battery is faulty, you must completely replace it instead.

eBike battery safety

Safety has top priority

Lithium-ion batteries are complex, finely tuned systems with a high energy content. Their contents can, in principle, be flammable in certain conditions. This is why all Bosch eBike batteries undergo extensive testing and may only be launched on the market once they've passed these tests.

Bosch eBike Systems goes above and beyond the strict legal requirements, with certain tests, and pays special attention to battery safety throughout the entire value chain. For peace of mind, the entire Bosch eBike system is certified to UL 2849, which is a standard covering the electrical system of eBikes powered by a lithium-based, rechargeable battery. UL 2849 has strict requirements for electrical shock, mechanical and fire hazards. Additionally, the high-quality lithium-ion batteries have a Battery Management System (BMS) that detects significant potential sources of error and effectively protects cells against overheating.

 

Thermal separation of battery cells

Electrical separation of battery cells

Mechanical separation of battery cells

Protection against water ingress

Bosch Battery Management System

Thermal separation of battery cells

In addition to mechanical and electrical separation, there is also thermal separation in all PowerTube batteries as well as in all smart system batteries through fully encased cells. The risk of overheating in the battery and a possible thermal chain reaction can thus be reduced.

Electrical separation of battery cells

An integrated fuse ensures electrical interruption in case of increased current flow in a cell.

Mechanical separation of battery cells

The individual cells of an eBike battery from Bosch eBike Systems are encased in flame-retardant plastic.

Protection against water ingress

An all-round battery housing seal protects the battery from water ingress when installed.

Bosch Battery Management System

The BMS protects against excessive operating temperatures, overload and deep discharge. It checks every single cell and thus makes the battery even more durable.

FAQs on rechargeable batteries

For disposal of your old or defective eBike battery please contact your local recycling centre.

Please note that you should not touch severely damaged batteries with your bare hands, as electrolyte can leak out and cause skin irritation. Please store them in a safe place outdoors with the contacts taped off and take them to an approved bicycle retailer for proper disposal as soon as possible.

The mount is designed in such a way that water can drain off and the contacts can dry. To ensure that this happens, the mount and plug area should be kept clean. The contacts have a coating which protects the surface against corrosion and wear. Terminal greases or technical Vaseline may also be used if required.

Bosch chargers are adapted specifically to the Bosch eBike System and have the correct software for charging and managing the Bosch rechargeable battery efficiently. Using a different charger may reduce the service life of the rechargeable battery or cause other damage or malfunctions in the eBike system.

More FAQs

More information as a download in your eBike Guide

In addition to important tips and advice about your battery, the eBike Guide not only familiarizes you with the basics, but also tells you how to improve your eBike experience, be safer on the road, and maximize your riding enjoyment.

Download

More information as a download in your eBike Guide

In addition to important tips and advice about your battery, the eBike Guide not only familiarizes you with the basics, but also tells you how to improve your eBike experience, be safer on the road, and maximize your riding enjoyment.

Download