Whether it’s your mobility scooter, your Veehop ATV, or your Kaaspeed golf ride — the battery is the real engine behind the scenes.
But not all batteries are created equal… and they don’t all like to be treated the same.
Here’s a simple breakdown 👇
Mobility Scooters: AGM Hybrid & Gel (VRLA)
Our Kiwi Mobility range — and most mobility scooters we support and replace batteries for — use VRLA batteries.
VRLA stands for Valve Regulated Lead Acid. The two common types are:
AGM Hybrid (Absorbent Glass Mat)
Gel
They’re sealed, low maintenance, and very safe — perfect for mobility use.
What they have in common:
Reliable, proven technology
Designed for steady, consistent power
Don’t like being left flat
Prefer being kept charged regularly
Think of them like a water tank — if you let it run dry and leave it that way, it shortens its life.
Top Tip:
If you’ve used your scooter today — plug it in tonight.
Even if it was just a short trip.
Letting AGM or Gel batteries sit partially discharged is one of the biggest causes of premature failure.
Are VRLA Batteries the Same as Car Batteries?
Short answer: No — they’re related, but designed for different jobs.
Car batteries are also lead-acid, but they’re built for short bursts of high power — like starting your engine — and then they’re immediately recharged by the alternator.
Mobility VRLA batteries are built differently. They’re designed for:
Deep-cycle use (longer, steady energy output)
Regular discharge and recharge
Ongoing power delivery over time
So while they’re cousins in chemistry, they’re designed for completely different purposes.
Veehop EKO & Kaaspeed: Lithium Power
Now this is where things shift.
Our Veehop electric ATVs and Kaaspeed models use Lithium batteries — a completely different chemistry.
Lithium batteries:
Are lighter
Hold voltage more consistently
Charge faster
Don’t mind partial charging
Have a longer usable lifespan when treated properly
Unlike lead-acid, lithium batteries don’t need to be kept at 100%.
In fact, they don’t love sitting at full charge for long periods either.
Lithium Storage Tip:
If storing long-term, aim for around 40–60% charge.
Not full. Not empty. Somewhere comfortably in the middle.
They’re a bit more like your phone battery — smarter, more energy dense, and happier with flexible charging habits.
Why the Difference?
It all comes down to chemistry.
Lead Acid (AGM & Gel)
Heavier
Older, proven technology
Lower energy density
Sensitive to being left discharged
Very reliable when maintained properly
Lithium
Modern chemistry
Higher energy density
Lighter weight
More charge cycles
More forgiving with day-to-day use
That’s why lithium has become so popular in recreational vehicles, farm bikes, golf carts and beyond.
The Bigger Picture – Battery Tech Is Moving Fast
Battery chemistry isn’t standing still.
We’re seeing:
- Safer lithium formulations (like LiFePO4)
- Better battery management systems
- Improved thermal safety
- Increased lifespan and cycle counts
- More focus on recyclability
Globally, there’s huge investment going into:
- Solid-state batteries
- Sodium-ion alternatives
- Lower environmental impact materials
- Faster charging capability
The “engine” of electric vehicles is evolving every year.In the next 5–10 years, we’ll likely see batteries that:
- Charge faster
- Last longer
- Use fewer rare earth materials
- Are safer and more sustainable
The “engine” of electric vehicles is evolving every year.
Final Thought
No matter what chemistry your ride uses:
Batteries don’t like:
Being ignored
Being left flat
Being stored incorrectly
They do like:
Correct charging
Regular use
A bit of care
Look after your battery, and it’ll look after you.
If you’re ever unsure what your specific model needs — just ask us. We’re always happy to help.
Battery Recycling & End-of-Life
When your battery reaches the end of its life, it doesn’t need to go to waste.
Lead-acid (VRLA) batteries, commonly used in mobility scooters, are widely recycled across New Zealand. Most metal recyclers accept them, and the materials inside can be recovered and reused. These batteries typically last a few years with proper care before needing replacement.
Lithium batteries are more specialised, but recycling technology has come a long way. Modern processes can recover over 90% of the valuable materials inside, helping reduce waste and support a more sustainable future.
We recommend checking for a local recycling option in your area first. If that’s not convenient, you’re always welcome to bring your old batteries back to us — we’ll make sure they’re handled and recycled properly.
