I just perused Vectrix's website and found the spec sheet for the new VX-1E and VX-2 models. Both appear to be using lead acid batteries. The VX-1E has a 3.2kW pack that is specified for only 300 charge cycles. That makes this bike pretty expensive in the long run. For many daily users that is little more than a years worth between battery changes. Even at a lower price point you'll be paying much more in the long run than if you buy the VX-1. The much less powerful VX-2 also only get 350 charge cycles form its battery pack.
Here are the links:
http://www.vectrix.com/products/2009_vx-1e
http://www.vectrix.com/products/2009_vx-2
Deatils on New Vectrix models are on their website
Sat, 02/14/2009 - 10:26
#1
Deatils on New Vectrix models are on their website
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Au contrare - moving away from NiMh is the best decision Vectrix could make.
NiMh (high internal resistance, high self discharge, low max current output) - its the people with the NiMh bikes that will be left with a dud when those packs go. At least SLA's are cheaper to replace.
I believe that is in parts untrue.
I have not heard of any batteries with a lower resistance than what I have measured for the Vectrix cells: About 2 to 3 mΩ per cell. I have not systematically searched for it, though, and have not measured other cells, so there is a possibility that I am getting wrong results.
High self discharge is unfortunately correct.
Low current output???? There is plenty of power at speeds where the current draw is not electronically limited (over 45km/h). The current draw is probably between 150A and 180A. (or 5 to 6 C).
The Vectrix BMS is so far inadequate, I believe. The string voltage needs to be measured every few cells, but the stock BMS only measures at tab 28 and 76. There is also nothing capable of shifting current = balancing cells in the Vectux (unless it's some really weird mechanism that does not need tabs to cells or modules in the string).
The only way to equalize the Vectrix cells seems to be slow over-charging of the full cells, and maybe reverse charging of weaker cells during the deep discharges they recommend.
Yes, people might be left with dud batteries due to the inadequate BMS. This seems to be compounded by insufficient thermal isolation of the cells, leading to temperature gradients between cells as well as within individual cells.
However, NiMH is probably quite feasible if managed well. The RAV4 EV's which are still running are a good example.
I do not fully understand the subject, but there is apparently some patent on large format NiMH packs which is hindering the further development of this particular chemistry. That patent was most likely bought up for a good reason: Because NiMH battery chemistry might well be the biggest threat to ICE makers and the oil industry due to it's safety, non-toxicity, and long cycle life if managed well!
This information may be used entirely at your own risk.
There is always a way if there is no other way!
ok it seems like you have a better version of NiMh. I few years ago invested in 100 cells, 5ahr each, and the results were very dissapointing. Internal resistance was about 60ohms per cell and the max current was about 1C. Total waste of about £500 !
My home made 36v 15ahr pack is now used to power a small light in the garage - it just about does that lol!
Still I wouldnt knock Vertrix for going with these newer type of SLAs personally. But it sounds like your experience has been better than mine with Nickel MentalHorribleide lol!