When it comes to upgrading RC cars for better performance, battery choice plays a crucial role. Typically, RC cars come equipped with 7.4V batteries, but enthusiasts often wonder about the benefits of switching to an 11.1V battery for an extra boost in performance.
Can you put a bigger battery in an RC car? Yes, you will lose about 30% of your power by dropping down to 7.4 volts from 11.1. Yes sending a lot more power through a car will make it alot faster. mah is your “tank of fuel”…the higher the number there, the longer the run and charge times.
In this article, we will delve into the technical aspects and considerations of using an 11.1V battery instead of a 7.4V battery in an RC car.
Table of Contents
Understanding Battery Voltage In RC Cars:
1. The Role Of Voltage In RC Car Performance:
The battery voltage directly influences an RC car’s performance. Voltage, a measurement of electrical potential energy, controls the motor’s speed and power. Generally speaking, increasing speed and acceleration follow higher voltage.
2. What Is The Difference Between a 7.4 V And 11.1 V Battery?
The batteries’ nominal voltages are represented by the digits 7.4V and 11.1V. The equivalent of a 7.4V battery is a 2S (2-cell) lithium polymer (LiPo) battery pack, with each cell supplying about 3.7V.
An 11.1V battery, on the other hand, is a 3S LiPo battery, with each cell producing about 3.7V. The 11.1V battery’s higher voltage means that it has more ability to provide electricity.
Can I Put A Higher Voltage Battery In My RC Car?
Installing a higher-voltage battery to increase speed may damage the speed controller or motor, as they were designed for the original voltage. While it’s possible to use a battery with higher voltage output by adding more cells in series, this could potentially harm your car.
Also Read: Car Battery Dies After Getting Gas
Is It Safe To Use11.1v Battery Instead Of 7.4v 7.4V RC Car:
Yes, it is safe to use an 11.1V battery in place of a 7.4V battery in an RC car. But this change needs to be carefully thought out. Increased speed and acceleration may be possible thanks to the 11.1V battery’s higher voltage, but compatibility with the motor, electrical components, and heat management must be guaranteed.
Gear ratios must be adjusted, and the battery’s decreased capacity might result in shorter run periods. Proper safety measures and prospective component modifications are imperative to ensure secure and effective performance when making this changeover.
Which is best 7.4v Or 11.1v?
The sort of load the unit presents has a big impact on the right answer. (For instance, if it used a linear regulator to decrease to 5V, the 7.4V battery is most likely the solution. The 11.1V battery is most likely the solution if the device employs a switching regulator.
Potential Benefits of Using an 11.1V Battery:
1. Increased Speed And Acceleration:
Yes, if you go from 11.1 to 7.4 volts, you will lose around 30% of your power. Yes, an automobile will go much faster if you give it much more energy. The possibility of faster speed and acceleration is one of the main benefits of using an 11.1V battery. The RC car can travel farther and accelerate faster because of the higher voltage’s increased power to the motor.
2. Enhanced Performance In Off-Road Conditions:
An 11.1V battery’s additional power may be useful for fans of remote-controlled off-road vehicles. Off-road tracks frequently have uneven terrain, and the extra power can make maneuvering around hazards easier for the car.
3. Thrilling Stunts And Maneuvers:
RC car fans may pull off more daring tricks and maneuvers with the extra power of an 11.1V battery. Increased torque and acceleration make new opportunities for flips, leaps, and other tricks possible.
Also Read: Battery Only Reading 10v
Considerations And Potential Drawbacks Of Using An 11.1v Battery:
As an RC enthusiast, considering upgrades like switching to an 11.1V battery for your car involves careful evaluation. Here are some considerations and potential drawbacks to keep in mind:
1. Motor And Electronics Compatibility:
It’s more complex than switching out the battery pack to upgrade to an 11.1V battery. Your RC car’s motor and electrical parts must be able to handle the greater voltage. Batteries with high voltage have the potential to harm parts that are not made to withstand the higher power.
2. Heat Generation:
The engine and electronic components may generate more heat when using an 11.1V battery. It is a result of the system’s greater current flow. If heat is not correctly controlled, it can be harmful and shorten the lifespan of these components.
3. Reduced Run Time:
Although an 11.1V battery can perform better, it often has less capacity than a 7.4V battery. It implies that the period between charges may be shortened.
Also Read: Can Bottled Water Be Added To A Battery
What Is The Lowest Voltage For A 7.4 V Lipo?
The lowest safe voltage for a 7.4V LiPo battery is around 2.7V per cell (5.4V for a two-cell configuration). Discharging below this level can reduce the battery’s lifespan.
Steps To Safely Transition To An 11.1v Battery:
As an RC enthusiast looking to enhance your vehicle’s performance with an 11.1V battery upgrade, here are some steps to ensure a safe transition:
1. Check Motor And electronic Compatibility:
Ensure that your RC car’s motor, electronic speed controller (ESC), and other components can withstand the greater voltage before transitioning. Replacing these components with ones made for higher voltage operation could be essential.
2. Monitor Heat Dissipation:
Monitor the motor and electronics’ temperatures when driving your RC car to avoid overheating. To increase heat dissipation, think about including heat sinks or fans.
3. Adjust Gear Ratios:
The gear ratio of your RC car may change if the voltage is raised. The gear ratio can be altered to enhance performance and lessen the burden on the motor.
Related Questions:
1. What Is The Minimum Voltage For 7.4 V Lipo?
When discharging, ensure the battery temperature stays below 60°C (140°F). The minimum cut-off voltage for this battery pack is 5.60V, and irreparable damage occurs if it falls below this threshold or if a single cell drops below 2.80V.
2. What Batteries Can I Put In My RC Car?
Besides small-scale or specialty classes, modern RC cars always use LiPo (Lithium Polymer) batteries. Each LiPo cell (battery) produces 3.7 volts, which are multiplied to create different voltages.
3. What Is The Full Charge Voltage Of 7.4 V Lipo?
When fully charged, conventional LiPo cells reach a maximum voltage of 4.2V, while LiHV (High Voltage) cells can reach 4.35V. This means LiHV batteries have an 8.7V voltage, while basic 2S LiPo batteries have an 8.4V voltage when fully charged.
4. Can I Directly Replace A 7.4v Battery With An 11.1v Battery In My RC car?
No, switching batteries without first ensuring compatibility is not advised. An 11.1V battery’s greater voltage can damage components not made for it.
5. Do I Need To Upgrade Any Components To Use An 11.1v Battery?
Confirming that your motor, electronic speed controller (ESC), and other parts are compatible is wise. It could be necessary to upgrade to components made for greater voltage operation.
6. Will Use An 11.1v Battery Void My RC Car’s Warranty?
The warranty’s conditions and the manufacturer will determine this. It’s vital to verify with the manufacturer before modifying your RC car’s parts, particularly the battery, as doing so can void the warranty.
7. Can I Use An 11.1v Battery For Any RC car?
Although an 11.1V battery can improve performance, it might be more suited for some RC cars, such as those utilized in off-road or racing situations. Think about the vehicle type and your particular use case.
8. Can I Use 7.2 V Battery Instead Of 7.4 V?
A 0.2V difference in voltage is usually not an issue for electronics. While the original 7.2V battery is preferred for optimal performance, electronics can often handle fluctuations and variations in voltage.
9. Which Battery Is Good For Rc Cars?
For hobbyist RC cars, NiMH and Li-Po batteries are the top choices. These RC vehicles are highly modular, allowing various battery types to be used. Aim for a high mAh capacity battery within your budget.
10. Can I Use A 12v Charger For A 7.4 V Battery?
No, using a 12V charger for a 7.4V battery is not recommended. The 12V charger is designed for lead acid batteries and may not provide the appropriate charging parameters for a lithium battery like the 7.4V battery.
Conclusion:
Your RC car may experience exciting performance improvements by switching from a 7.4V battery to an 11.1V battery, including enhanced speed, acceleration, and the potential for complex maneuvers. However, this change requires carefully considering gear ratio modifications, heat management, and compatibility with motors and electronics. RC vehicle fans can explore the fascinating possibilities that an 11.1V battery can offer to improve their RC driving experience by adhering to these rules and taking the required safety precautions.
Also Read:
- Is 15 Volts Too High For Car Battery
- Car Making Noise After Battery Change
- Is 12.3 Volts OK Car Battery
- How Far Can A Car Drive On Battery Only
References:
- https://www.rctech.net/forum/electric-off-road/397219-7-4v-lipo-vs-11-1-lipo.html
- https://www.rc-help.com/threads/11-1-volt-vs-7-4-volt.18069/
- https://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?377283-7-4v-vs-11-1-v-lipo
- https://www.reddit.com/r/airsoft/comments/u7uo2w/111v_vs_74v_lipo/
- https://www.osvehicle.com/upgrading-your-rc-car-battery-can-i-use-an-11-1v-battery-instead-of-a-7-4v-battery/
