Dual Powerpack State of Charge (SOC) Balance Guidelines
When operating a FONZ vehicle with two Powerpacks installed, it is important that both packs are within an appropriate State of Charge (SOC) range relative to each other before riding. For optimal performance and system stability: The difference in SOC between paired Powerpacks should not exceed 20% at the time of installation and operation. Maintaining this balance helps ensure smooth power delivery, proper load sharing, and consistent rider experience.
Applies to: FONZ dual-Powerpack equipped models (e.g. Arthur series)
Why SOC Balance Matters
Each Powerpack contains:
-
Lithium battery cells
-
Integrated Battery Management System (BMS)
-
Thermal monitoring sensors
-
Voltage and current protection circuitry
When two Powerpacks are used together, the vehicle’s control system expects both packs to discharge at a similar rate.
If one Powerpack is significantly higher in charge than the other (for example 100% and 30%), the system may detect imbalance during higher load conditions such as:
-
Hard acceleration
-
Riding at higher speeds
-
Incline riding
-
Wind resistance
-
Lower ambient temperatures
In these cases, protective battery management protocols may temporarily:
-
Limit output
-
Reduce throttle response
-
Enter a protective power reduction state
These protections are designed to safeguard battery cells and internal components. They are not indicative of permanent damage or mechanical fault.
Best Practice When Packs Are Imbalanced
If the SOC difference exceeds approximately 20%:
Recommended Options:
Option 1 – Operate on a Single Pack
-
Remove the lower SOC Powerpack
-
Ride using the fully charged pack only
Option 2 – Rebalance Before Riding
-
Recharge the lower SOC Powerpack
-
Reinstall once both packs are within ~20% of each other
This ensures balanced discharge behaviour and optimal system performance.
Example Scenario
| Powerpack A | Powerpack B | SOC Difference | Recommended Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| 95% | 85% | 10% | Safe to operate |
| 80% | 65% | 15% | Safe to operate |
| 100% | 30% | 70% | Do not pair – rebalance first |
| 100% | 20% | 80% | Operate on single pack or recharge |
Additional Considerations
-
Minor SOC variation is normal.
-
After rebalancing, the system will resume standard load sharing.
-
If protective power limitation occurs, switching the vehicle off and allowing a short rest period may allow normal operation once packs stabilise.
-
Persistent imbalance or repeated protective events should be assessed during service.
Service & Diagnostics
During scheduled service, FONZ technicians can:
-
Perform State of Health (SOH) testing
-
Check cell balance
-
Review system diagnostic logs
-
Confirm firmware status
If you are unsure about pack balance or performance behaviour, please contact Owner Support before riding under high load conditions. If you have any concerns please do not charge or discharge the Powerpack, contact FONZ HQ immediately for Owner Support, support@fonzmoto.com or phone 02 8520 3905.
Important Notice:
Powerpacks are high-voltage energy storage systems incorporating lithium cells and electronic management components. Incorrect handling, improper pairing, or operation outside recommended guidelines may result in reduced performance or activation of protective safety systems.
Always follow FONZ operational guidelines and service recommendations. If in doubt, seek guidance prior to continued operation.