Everything you need to know about batteries & recycling

The eBike battery guide

Find dealer

Range calculator

Everything you need to know about batteries & recycling

The eBike battery guide

Find dealer

Range calculator

Bosch batteries and chargers

More energy for travelling

Bosch batteries provide the energy source for eBikes. They combine impressive mileage, a long service life and low weight (approx. 5.5 to 9.7 lbs) with an ergonomic design and convenient handling. The high-quality lithium-ion batteries have a battery management system (BMS). This continuously monitors the battery, detects potential fault sources and effectively protects cells against overload.

Powerful in every design

Different battery positions

Frame battery

Because it is a frame battery, the PowerPack is easy to access and remove. Thanks to its low center of gravity, it ensures balanced weight distribution.

Because it is a frame battery, the PowerPack is easy to access and remove. Thanks to its low center of gravity, it ensures balanced weight distribution.

Rack battery

Thanks to their higher positioning on the eBike, rack batteries can be removed and charged conveniently while standing. 

Thanks to their higher positioning on the eBike, rack batteries can be removed and charged conveniently while standing. 

Integrated battery

The PowerTube integrates perfectly in the frame, creating an elegant, clean eBike look.

The PowerTube integrates perfectly in the frame, creating an elegant, clean eBike look.

Extended range

DualBattery

Combining two Bosch batteries provides considerably more energy and therefore more range.

Combining two Bosch batteries provides considerably more energy and therefore more range.

Range extender

Spontaneously supplement the main battery of your eBike with PowerMore 250, the drinks-bottle-sized additional battery.

Spontaneously supplement the main battery of your eBike with PowerMore 250, the drinks-bottle-sized additional battery.

The advantages

Reasons for choosing eBike batteries from Bosch

LI-ion batter icon

No memory effect

Bosch batteries with lithium-ion cells can be charged quickly irrespective of your state of charge at any time. Interruptions of the charging process do not harm the battery. Complete discharge is not required.

 

Extremely low self-discharge

Even after long periods of storage, e.g. over winter, the battery can be used without recharging. For longer storage, a state of charge of approx. 30% to 60% is recommended, as is charging after a longer period in storage.

Clock icon

Long service life

Bosch batteries are designed for lots of trips, miles and years of service. The intelligent, electronic Bosch battery management system (BMS) protects against excessive operating temperatures, overload and deep discharge. The BMS checks every cell, extending the life of the battery.

Battery level icon

Rapid charging

Bosch chargers are available in a range of different sizes and performance levels, and enable rapid charging according to your needs.

eBike icon with an arrow pointing towards it

Easy to remove

Bosch batteries can be removed in just a few simple hand movements. The battery can therefore be charged and stored away from the eBike. This simplifies use, for example, when using in the winter. As the battery delivers less power at low temperatures, in winter it should be stored at room temperature until shortly before starting the journey.

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 great riding experience.

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. Additionally, all batteries are certified to UL 2271.

How a lithium-ion battery works

A lithium-ion battery generates the electromotive force by displacing lithium ions. While the eBike is in motion the electrodes move from the negative anode, via the drive unit, to the positive cathode. The lithium ions provide balance. The reverse process takes place when the battery is charged.

Bosch batteries 

Powerful in every design

 

Bosch eBike PowerPack 545

PowerPacks

Sporty & dynamic: When used as a frame battery, the PowerPack sits close to the center of gravity of the wheel, ensuring optimum weight distribution.

  Compact Charger  Standard Charger Fast Charger
PowerPack 300 50% in approx. 2 hours,
100% in approx. 5 hours
50% in approx. 1 hour,
100% in approx. 2.5 hours
50% in approx. 1 hour,
100% in approx. 2.5 hours
PowerPack 400 50% in approx. 2.5 hours,
100% in approx. 6.5 hours
50% in approx. 1.5 hours,
100% in approx. 3.5 hours
50% in approx. 1 hour,
100% in approx. 2.5 hours
PowerPack 500 50% in approx. 3.5 hours,
100% in approx. 7.5 hours
50% in approx. 1.7 hours,
100% in approx. 4.5 hours
50% in approx. 1.2 hours,
100% in approx. 3 hours
  2A Charger 4A Charger
PowerPack 400
Frame
50% in approx. 2.8 hours,
100% in approx. 6 hours
50% in approx. 1.5 hours,
100% in approx. 3.5 hours
PowerPack 400
Rack
50% in approx. 2.8 hours,
100% in approx. 6 hours
50% in approx. 1.5 hours,
100% in approx. 3.5 hours
PowerPack 500
Rack
50% in approx. 3.6 hours,
100% in approx. 7.3 hours
50% in approx. 1.7 hours,
100% in approx. 4.5 hours
PowerPack 545
Frame
50% in approx. 3.8 hours,
100% in approx. 7.7 hours
50% in approx. 1.8 hours,
100% in approx. 4.9 hours
PowerPack 725
Frame
50% in approx. 5.3 hours,
100% in approx. 11 hours
50% in approx. 2.3 hours,
100% in approx. 6 hours
Bosch eBike PowerTube 500

PowerTubes

Stylishly elegant: There are two versions of the PowerTube: horizontal or vertical. Both are installed by the manufacturer according to the eBike's specific design.

  Compact Charger Standard Charger Fast Charger
PowerTube 400 50% in approx. 2.5 hours,
100% in approx. 6.5 hours
50% in approx. 1.5 hours,
100% in approx. 3.5 hours
50% in approx. 1 hour,
100% in approx. 2.5 hours
PowerTube 500 50% in approx. 3.5 hours,
100% in approx. 7.5 hours
50% in approx. 1.7 hours,
100% in approx. 4.5 hours
50% in approx. 1.2 hours,
100% in approx. 3 hours
PowerTube 625 50% in approx. 4.2 hours,
100% in approx. 8.8 hours
50% in approx. 2.1 hours,
100% in approx. 5.4 hours
50% in approx. 1.4 hours,
100% in approx. 3.7 hours
  2A Charger 4A Charger
PowerTube 500 50% in approx. 3.6 hours,
100% in approx. 7.3 hours
50% in approx. 1.7 hours,
100% in approx. 4.5 hours
PowerTube 625 50% in approx. 4.6 hours,
100% in approx. 9.3 hours
50% in approx. 2.1 hours,
100% in approx. 5.4 hours
PowerTube 750 50% in approx. 5.3 hours,
100% in approx. 11 hours
50% in approx. 2.3 hours,
100% in approx. 6 hours
CompactTube 400 50% in approx. 2.8 hours,
100% in approx. 6 hours
50% in approx. 1.5 hours,
100% in approx. 3.5 hours
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 hours,
100% in approx. 17.6 hours
50% in approx. 4.2 hours,
100% in approx. 9.8 hours
50% in approx. 2.8 hours,
100% in approx. 7.4 hours
  2A Charger 4A Charger
DualBattery Available in future Available in future

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

Range extender PowerMore 250

The portable, drinks-bottle-sized range extender provides that extra bit of range.

  2A Charger 4A Charger
PowerMore 250 50% in approx. 1.6 hours,
100% in approx. 3.7 hours
50% in approx. 1.3 hours,
100% in approx. 3.2 hours

The range calculator

The range of Bosch batteries depends on numerous different factors. You can use the range calculator to calculate the range of the support you can expect from your eBike system on your next ride in various conditions. 

Go to range calculator

Tips and tricks for longer riding fun with the range calculator

Cadence

Cadence

Cadences above 60 revolutions per minute optimize the efficiency of the drive unit. Very slow pedaling, especially in high gears, on the other hand, costs the battery more energy.

Weight

Weight

Weight should be minimized by keeping the total weight of the bicycle and luggage from being unnecessarily high.

Starting & braking

Starting & braking

As with a car, frequent starting and stopping is less economical than long distances at almost constant speed.

Shifting system

Shifting system

Correct gear shifting also makes eBiking more efficient: A low gear should be used when starting and on inclines, followed by upshifts according to the terrain and speed. The computer provides shift recommendations.

Tire pressure

Tire pressure

Rolling resistance can be minimized by 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 with the motor performance indicator of the Intuvia, Kiox and Nyon computers and adapt your riding style accordingly. A longer bar indicates a higher power consumption.

Battery & temperature

Battery & temperature

With decreasing temperature, 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

With the correct handling and care, the service life of a Bosch eBike battery can be lengthened. Here, 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: Carefully clean the plug poles occasionally and grease them lightly.

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 insert the charging plug on the charger into the charging socket in the battery mount and insert the power plug into the wall outlet. Done! The batteries should be charged at room temperature in a dry location where a smoke detector is installed.

Charging on the eBike

PowerPacks and PowerTubes are particularly easy to charge directly on the eBike itself. You just need to insert the charging plug on the charger into the charging socket in the battery mount and insert the power plug into the wall outlet. Done! The batteries should be charged at room temperature in a dry location where a smoke detector is installed.

Charging a removed battery

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

Charging a removed battery

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

Removal and installation

The Bosch batteries are seated securely in their mounts, even when travelling over rough terrain. However, they are easily removed for storage or charging purposes: Simply open the lock, which serves as an attachment and remove the battery from the mount.

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

Care

The Bosch battery is an important component of the eBike. With the correct handling and care its service life can be lengthened.

Cleaning & care

A damp cloth is recommended for cleaning the battery. The plug poles should be cleaned occasionally and lightly greased. The battery should first be removed before cleaning the eBike. To protect the electronic components, the batteries must never be cleaned with a direct jet of water or high pressure hose.

Storage during winter

Store the batteries in a dry location at room temperature. Fully charging or fully discharging results in higher loading of the battery. The ideal charge status for lengthy periods of storage is
approx. 30% to 60% or two to three LEDs on the battery indicator.

Winter use

During winter use (particularly below 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 cold conditions, it is advisable to use thermal protective covers.

Transporting your eBike

Lithium-ion batteries store large amounts of energy. That's why some precautions are necessary during transport. Ideally, the battery should be set to approx. 30% discharged and only fully charged again at the destination.

By car

If the eBike is being transported with a bike rack, remove the battery first and place it in a safe location inside the car.

Flights

Air transportation organization IATA has forbidden the transportation of eBike batteries on passenger planes. We recommend renting a Bosch eBike battery at your destination. You should check in advance whether the airline will transport eBikes without a battery.

By train

In trains with bicycle compartments, there is usually no issue with carrying eBikes (up to 20 mph). You often need to get an extra bike ticket and make a reservation for the eBike. The eBike battery must remain permanently installed during the journey and must not be charged. Before starting your journey, you should contact the respective service provider for precise information on the transport conditions. It is not always possible to take eBikes on all routes.

On commuter services and long-distance buses

On commuter services, for example on light rail services, it is often permissible to take a bike on board at regional off-peak times, provided you have purchased a bicycle ticket. It is advisable to obtain information from the relevant transport authority before travelling. The policies for transporting eBikes on long-distance buses vary between companies. Therefore you should enquire in advance of 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 rent one at your destination.

Service life

The service life of Bosch batteries is influenced mainly by the type and duration of use. Like every lithium-ion battery, a Bosch battery also ages over time, even if you do not use it. Over time it loses capacity.

Factors that shorten the service life:

  • Heavy-load use

  • Storage at over 86 °F ambient temperature

  •  Prolonged storage in a completely charged or completely discharged state

  •  Parking of the eBike in the blazing sun

  • Regular complete "discharge" of the battery

Factors that extend the service life:

  • Low-load use

  • Storage at moderate temperatures – ideally at room temperature

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

  • Parking the eBike in the shade or a cool location

 

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 by other means of transport 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 properly recycled.

Further information

Recycling FAQ

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 by other means of transport 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 properly recycled.

Further information

Recycling FAQ

eBike battery safety

Safety is our 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 isolation of battery cells

Electrical isolation of battery cells

Mechanical isolation of battery cells

Protection against water ingress

Bosch battery management system

Thermal isolation of battery cells

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

Electrical isolation of battery cells

An integrated fuse provides electrical interruption, in case of increased current flow from a cell.

Mechanical isolation of battery cells

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

Protection against water ingress

A circumferential seal of the battery case 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 cell, extending the life of the battery.

Frequently asked questions about 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. 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 fun.

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 fun.

Download