Mobility Scooter Battery Types Explained: SLA vs Lithium
by admin, September 13, 2025
Mobility Scooter Battery Types Explained: SLA vs Lithium
When choosing a mobility scooter or replacing its battery, one of the most important decisions is whether to use a traditional sealed lead acid (SLA) battery or a modern lithium battery. Both types power thousands of scooters in the UK, but they differ significantly in weight, performance, cost, and lifespan. This guide explains the differences so you can make the right choice for your needs.
What are SLA batteries?
Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) batteries have been the standard in mobility scooters for decades. They are reliable, affordable, and widely available. SLA batteries come in 12V blocks, usually paired to provide the 24V needed by most scooters. They are heavy, but proven technology.
Key points:
Lower upfront cost
Widely available replacements
Heavy: adds significant weight to your scooter
Shorter lifespan compared to lithium
What are Lithium batteries?
Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries are newer, lighter, and increasingly used in portable and folding scooters. They use advanced chemistry to provide more power in a smaller, lighter package. Many airlines approve lithium batteries under certain size limits, making them ideal for travel scooters.
Key points:
Much lighter than SLA
Typically last longer (more charge cycles)
Faster charging
More expensive upfront
Must be genuine and safety-certified for airline use
Pros and Cons of Each
| Feature | SLA | Lithium |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | Heavy – makes scooters harder to lift | Very light – easy to handle and transport |
| Cost | Lower initial price | Higher initial cost |
| Lifespan | ~300 charge cycles | ~1,000 charge cycles |
| Range | Lower range per charge | Longer range per charge |
| Airline Friendly | Not suitable | Yes, within IATA limits |
How to Choose the Right Battery for Your Scooter
For lightweight, folding, or travel scooters: Lithium is usually best thanks to its portability and range.
For larger road scooters: SLA can still be a good option due to lower cost and ease of replacement.
For frequent users: Lithium’s longer lifespan often makes it better value in the long run.
For occasional users: SLA may be more cost-effective if the scooter is used only now and then.
How to Care for Your Battery
Charge regularly: Avoid letting the battery fully discharge.
Store properly: If not using the scooter for weeks, charge the battery every month.
Use the correct charger: Always use the charger supplied or recommended for your battery.
Avoid extremes: Don’t expose the battery to very hot or very cold conditions.
Check compatibility: Always buy batteries designed for your scooter model.
Choosing between SLA and lithium depends on your scooter, lifestyle, and budget. Lithium batteries provide the best performance and convenience, while SLA remains a reliable, affordable option for many users. If you’re unsure which you need, contact us and we’ll be happy to help.