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Chapter 5: Gas Versus Electric Mopeds

The decision between a gasoline-powered versus electrically powered model of moped is a big one. It is mandatory for a buyer to determine his or her exact needs for use before making this decision. It is critical to understand when and how you will use your moped, how long you will ride before stopping, and where you will be.

Perhaps the most important determining factor in this respect is availability of electrical outlets versus availability of gas stations. It is important to realize that the small gas tank of a moped holds a very small amount of gasoline relative to a car. Thus, despite the phenomenal increase in gas mileage, a moped still requires frequent refueling. A typical gas-powered moped can get approximately 50 to 100 miles per gallon (mpg) and hold approximately 1.5 gallons of gasoline in the tank. This enables a user to travel up to 150 miles without refueling, but not more. In an area with fewer available gas stations or stations that are only open at some hours, certain users might find that gassing up the moped is inconvenient or difficult. A user that spends a great deal of time commuting from home might wish to keep a few gas cans filled in their own home or garage for emergency purposes.

In contrast, the limiting factor for electrically powered mopeds is charge. These mopeds are plugged into an electrical socket or charger and run on battery power. Of course, in the absence of electricity, they cannot be charged, and electrically powered models frequently cannot go for as many miles as gas powered versions without a necessary re-charge. For example, while a gas-powered moped can go up to 150 miles without refueling (see above), an electrically powered counterpart may require a recharge after about 50 miles. Furthermore, a gas-powered moped may rely upon backup fuel in the form of a portable gas can. However, this type of backup may be more difficult for an electrically powered moped. As an example, those who frequently enjoy camping and would like to take a moped on camping trips should consider this factor in areas devoid of electricity.

Generally speaking, gas powered mopeds are less expensive up front than electrically powered ones. The reasons for this are several-fold. For one, the electrically powered models, while more expensive, can be expected to eventually repay their own costs in gasoline saved by not driving a gas-powered moped or car. Second, because the price of gas is constantly rising, a gas-powered model can be expected to increase over time in total costs. Third, gas-powered mopeds also require oil changes and maintenance of transmission, while electrically powered models do not. Finally, while all mopeds are very environmentally friendly in comparison to many other forms of travel, electrically powered mopeds outperform gas powered models in this regard. Of course, the price and generation of electricity is a consideration; however, overall it can be expected to cost much less to charge a moped electrically than to fill a gasoline tank. Moreover, a user who can charge his or her moped using electricity generated through wind, solar or another alternative power source is a user who is doing the environment, and the wallet, two consecutive favors.

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