Short range on Alber e-motion wheels: why it happens and how to improve it
Axis · Updated:
When your Alber e-motion battery covers shorter and shorter distances, the usual culprit is worn cells that have lost capacity. Regeneration with new cells restores the range to at least the level of a new battery, and in Li-ion models (M15, M25) it usually increases it, by as much as 20–30%, because today's cells have a higher energy density than those fitted at the factory a few years ago. Range is also affected by terrain, temperature, tyre pressure and the level of power assist.
When every outing has to be planned around the charger
Your wheels used to last all day. Now, before you go out, you count the kilometres, check whether you can top up on the way, and a longer walk or meeting up with friends more and more often ends with "maybe another time". Losing range, in practice, means losing freedom. It's worth knowing what really affects it, and what you can do about it.
Why range drops over time
The cells in the battery lose capacity with every charge cycle and as the years go by. Less stored energy means fewer kilometres per charge. On top of that, worn cells have higher internal resistance, so they sag faster under load and the electronics may cut the power assist before you've used up the remaining energy. We describe this mechanism in the article why Alber e-motion wheels cut out uphill. We cover cell ageing in more detail in our piece on Alber e-motion battery lifespan.
What else affects range: the honest picture
Even a new battery won't give the same result in every condition. Range is affected by things like:
- terrain: ramps, kerbs and uneven surfaces use much more energy than a smooth pavement,
- temperature: in the cold, cells deliver less energy, so range is shorter in winter,
- tyre pressure: under-inflated tyres increase rolling resistance,
- power assist level and how you push: the more work the drive does, the faster it uses energy,
- load: the weight of the user and any bags matters, especially on inclines.
That's why we don't quote a single "after regeneration" distance: the real result always depends on how and where you ride. It's best to compare the range on your usual route, in similar weather.
Simple ways to go further
- Check your tyre pressure regularly.
- Charge the battery before you go out and don't leave it flat for long.
- In winter, keep the battery in a warm room, not in a cold garage or car.
- On flat stretches, use a lower power assist level if your settings allow it.
- Keep the battery contacts clean: poor contact means losses and power interruptions.
These habits help, but they won't reverse the wear in the chemistry. If your range has dropped noticeably and conditions haven't changed, it's time to think about new cells.
Which capacity to choose when regenerating
When regenerating batteries for the M15 and M25, you can choose one of four capacities. Put simply, a battery's energy is voltage × capacity: the more watt-hours (Wh), the more energy per charge.
| Model | Voltage | Capacity | Energy (approx.) | Regeneration price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| e-motion M15, M25 (Li-ion) | 25.3 V | 5800 mAh | 147 Wh | 370 zł |
| e-motion M15, M25 (Li-ion) | 25.3 V | 6800 mAh | 172 Wh | 410 zł |
| e-motion M15, M25 (Li-ion) | 25.3 V | 8700 mAh | 220 Wh | 470 zł |
| e-motion M15, M25 (Li-ion) | 25.3 V | 10200 mAh | 258 Wh | 620 zł |
| e-motion M11, M12, M13 (NiMH) | 24 V | 2000 mAh | 48 Wh | 440 zł |
| e-motion M11, M12, M13 (NiMH) | 24 V | 3000 mAh | 72 Wh | 560 zł |
The energy in the table is a nominal value calculated from voltage and capacity, not a guaranteed range. In Li-ion models, the higher capacity fits inside the same original housing thanks to the higher energy density of modern cells. For the NiMH batteries in the M11, M12 and M13, the 3000 mAh version gives you more energy. You'll find the full price list, in euros too, and a comparison with new wheels in the article how much Alber e-motion battery regeneration costs.
What stays the same
A higher capacity doesn't change how you use your wheels. We keep the original Alber control electronics, housing and sockets, so your remote, the mobile app and the original charger work just as they did before regeneration. Every battery is load-tested and comes with a 12-month written warranty.
Axis is an independent service. We are not affiliated with Alber GmbH or Invacare, we are not an authorised manufacturer service centre and we are not endorsed by the manufacturer. “Alber” and “e-motion” are trademarks of their respective owners.
FAQ
- How much will my Alber e-motion range increase after regeneration?
- The range will be at least what you'd get from a new battery, and in Li-ion models usually more, by as much as 20–30%. The real result depends on terrain, temperature, tyre pressure and the power assist level.
- Which capacity should I choose for an e-motion M15 or M25?
- You can choose 5800, 6800, 8700 or 10200 mAh at 25.3 V. The higher the capacity, the more energy per charge; the 10200 mAh version gives the most (approx. 258 Wh).
- Will a higher capacity fit in the original housing?
- Yes. Modern cells have a higher energy density than those fitted at the factory a few years ago, so a higher capacity fits in the same housing. The housing, sockets and electronics stay original.
- Why is the range shorter in winter?
- At low temperatures, cells deliver less energy than in the warm. That's normal, but with a worn battery it's usually much more noticeable.