When Tesla used kinetic energy recovery to disrupt the automotive industry, OKAI engineers were thinking: How can we make the last kilometer of commuting also have the "perpetual motion machine philosophy?"
What is Kinetic Energy Recovery?
The secret of the swing going higher and higher
Recall the rhythm of swinging in childhood: accelerating at the lowest point and reducing power at the highest point. The kinetic energy recovery system of the electric scooter is like a smart swing hand, accurately capturing electricity at the "energy peak" of downhill/deceleration and converting it into a preparatory action for the next acceleration.
The kinetic energy recovery technology uses intelligent circuits + bidirectional motor controllers , so the scooter can determine in real time when to consume electricity for driving and when to generate electricity for charging.
When your scooter slows down or brakes, the motor will work in reverse to convert part of the kinetic energy back into electrical energy. Just like fast charging of mobile phones will not damage the battery, our BMS battery management system will also ensure that the recycled current is gently injected into the battery.
How Kinetic Energy Recovery Works
1. Deceleration time
When you release the accelerator and start to slow down, the motor is no longer a power source that consumes electricity, but instead turns into a generator, switching roles in the rhythm of deceleration.
2. Energy conversion
The kinetic energy of wheel deceleration is no longer wasted as heat in the brake pads, but is converted into storable electrical energy through precise electromagnetic induction, just like collecting scattered sunlight into solar energy, making the best use of every bit of energy.
3. Power recharging
The converted electric energy will not disappear out of thin air, but will be injected into the battery through the intelligent circuit system. Every recharge is to reserve energy for the next acceleration.
4. Smooth braking
Different from the "sudden stop and go" of traditional brakes, kinetic energy recovery provides a more linear and controllable deceleration experience. It is like using a feather to gently support the forward inertia, which not only protects the brake system but also improves riding comfort.
The "superpower" of kinetic energy recovery
1. Protection of driving range
Every downhill and every deceleration is an opportunity to "recharge" the range. Especially in the undulating city road conditions, kinetic energy recovery can make your scooter like a perpetual motion machine, the more you ride, the more power it has.
2. A revolution in energy efficiency
Traditional braking wastes kinetic energy as heat, while kinetic energy recovery allows energy to be recycled. This is not only a protection of the earth's environment, but also a pursuit of energy efficiency.
3. Protection of the brake system
Reducing reliance on mechanical brakes means less wear and tear and lower maintenance costs. Kinetic energy recovery is like putting a protective shield on the brake system, making it more durable.
4. A safe riding partner
On slippery roads or in emergency situations, the smooth deceleration characteristics of kinetic energy recovery provide additional safety. It is like an invisible co-pilot, always protecting you.
Kinetic energy recovery vs. traditional braking
The moment you release the accelerator and press the brake, the energy has two paths - one leads to the hot brake pads and disappears into thin air; the other is recharged into the battery through precise electromagnetic induction, storing power for the next acceleration.
How to use kinetic energy recovery
To maximize the effectiveness of the electric scooter kinetic energy recovery system, remember these 3 tips:
1. Predictive braking
Predict the road conditions in advance, gently squeeze the brakes to slow down gradually, and allow the motor more time to recover energy.
2. Downhill = Charging Station
When you encounter a downhill section, just release the accelerator and let the kinetic energy recovery system work automatically. The greater the slope, the higher the "charging" efficiency.
3. Safety first
Although kinetic energy recovery can provide smooth deceleration, traditional braking is still the last line of defense in emergency situations. Double protection is the real smart travel.
Conclusion: Let technology return to the essence of cycling
Stay tuned!
The series of new electric scooters that OKAI plans to launch in 2025 will all be equipped with a kinetic energy recovery system.
The kinetic energy recovery system is not only a technological breakthrough, but also an innovation in travel concepts:
✅ The ultimate pursuit of energy efficiency
✅ Multiple protections for cycling safety
✅ Strong commitment to the urban environment
OKAI believes that innovation is not about showing off, but about making cutting-edge technology the backing for safe and efficient travel.
From the first generation of mechanical brakes to today's kinetic energy recovery systems, what has changed is the depth of understanding of energy efficiency, while what remains unchanged is the pursuit of ultimate travel.
