How Long Can A 48V Battery Power An Electric Bike At High Speeds?

As electric bikes become more powerful and widely used, many riders ask a practical question:

How long can a 48V battery actually power an electric bike when riding at high speeds?

This question matters not only for daily commuting, but also for overall riding reliability, trip planning, and battery selection. In real-world riding, range at high speed is often very different from manufacturer claims.

In this article, we explain how long a 48V e-bike battery can last at high speeds, what affects real-world range the most, and what riders should realistically expect.

Key Performance Basics of 48V Electric Bikes

To understand range at high speed, it's important to first clarify the basic configuration of a typical 48V electric bike.

Most 48V e-bikes are equipped with motors rated between 350W and 600W, although some high-performance models may use more powerful motors. Under standard regulations, top speed is often limited to 25 km/h (15.5 mph), but in real-world use, many 48V systems can reach 30–35 km/h (18–22 mph) when conditions allow.

Common 48V Battery Capacities

Battery capacity is the most important factor affecting riding range. Common 48V lithium battery options include:

• 48V 12Ah – theoretical range ~38.5 km
• 48V 20Ah – theoretical range ~60–65 km
• 48V 24Ah – theoretical range ~72–82 km
• 48V 25Ah – theoretical range ~60–70 km
• 48V 35Ah – theoretical range ~100–120 km

These figures are usually calculated under ideal conditions and do not reflect high-speed riding.

How High Speed Affects 48V E-Bike Range

The relationship between speed and range is not linear.

As riding speed increases, energy consumption rises rapidly because the motor must overcome greater air resistance and rolling resistance. Once speed exceeds 25 km/h, battery drain increases noticeably.

In practical terms, riding above 25 km/h often reduces total range by 10%–15%, and the reduction becomes more significant at even higher speeds.

Real-World Examples

48V 20Ah battery + 600W motor

• At 25 km/h, range is about 40 km
• At 35 km/h, energy consumption increases by roughly 35–40%, reducing range to 25–30 km

48V 35Ah battery + 500W motor

• At 35 km/h cruising speed, theoretical range can exceed 100 km
• In real conditions (wind, terrain, load), practical range is more likely 60–80 km

These examples show why advertised range figures often feel optimistic to riders who prefer higher speeds.

The Difference Between Theoretical and Real-World Range

Theoretical Calculation Example

A simple way to estimate range is:

• Battery energy ÷ motor power = riding time

For example, a 48V 20Ah battery (960Wh) with a 500W motor:

• Riding time: 960Wh ÷ 500W = 1.92 hours
• At 25 km/h: 1.92 × 25 = 48 km

Why Actual Range Is Lower

In real-world riding, several factors reduce usable range:

1. System efficiency losses

Motor efficiency and electrical losses reduce usable energy to about 80–90%, lowering range to 38–43 km

2. Road and load conditions

Hills, headwinds, or an additional 50 kg load can reduce range by 15–20%

3. Temperature

• Below 10°C, range may drop by ~20%
• Around −10°C, range reduction can reach 30%

4. Riding behavior

Frequent acceleration, aggressive throttle use, and hard braking can increase energy consumption by 20–30%

Estimated High-Speed Range of Common 48V Batteries

The table below shows estimated real-world range at high speed (around 35 km/h) for typical 48V battery capacities:

Note: All values are estimates. Actual results vary depending on riding conditions and system configuration.

How to Maximize Range When Riding at High Speed

Even when riding fast, range can be optimized with the right habits:

• Maintain a steady speed

Smooth riding can save 10–15% of battery energy

• Limit excess load

Every additional 50 kg can reduce range by 5–8 km

• Keep tires properly inflated

Recommended tire pressure (2.2–2.5 bar) reduces rolling resistance

• Use good battery practices

Avoid fully draining the battery

Charging between 20% and 80% helps maintain long-term battery health

In cold weather, warming the battery before riding improves performance

• Plan flatter routes

Continuous climbs significantly increase power consumption

When Is a 48V Battery the Right Choice?

A 48V e-bike system is well suited for:

• Urban and suburban commuting up to 50 km per day
• Moderate to high-speed riding in the 25–35 km/h range
• Single riders or light cargo, typically under 100 kg total load

For riders who need daily high-speed distances over 80 km, higher-voltage systems (such as 60V or 72V) may be required. However, these systems often fall outside standard e-bike regulations and may require licensing depending on local laws.

Conclusion: What Can You Expect from a 48V Battery at High Speed?

At high speeds of around 35 km/h, a 48V electric bike battery typically delivers a real-world range of 20–85 km, depending on:

• Battery capacity (12Ah–35Ah)
• Motor power (350W–800W)
• Riding conditions (terrain, load, temperature)
• Riding habits (acceleration and speed stability)

Choosing the right 48V battery capacity should be based on your daily distance, preferred speed, and load requirements. Understanding these factors helps ensure reliable performance and a better overall riding experience.

Looking for a reliable 48V eBike battery manufacturer?

GEB is a brand under General Electronics Technology Co., LTD, specializing in lithium batteries for electric bicycles. Since establishing its factory in 2009, GEB has focused on the US and European markets, building a strong reputation in the Western lithium battery industry. Our products are certified with UL, CE, RoHS, and other local safety and environmental approvals, ensuring full compliance with US and EU market standards. We offer a wide range of eBike lithium batteries in different voltages, capacities, and formats, and also provide customized battery solutions tailored to specific customer requirements.

Contact GEB today to discuss your 48V eBike battery project and custom solutions.