The BtrPower 48V 16Ah LiFePO4 battery is the slimmest option in BtrPower's LiFePO4 lineup, measuring just 10.6 by 6.1 by 2.8 inches. That flat form factor makes it an interesting option for builds where standard pack dimensions do not fit, particularly when mounting space is limited in depth but has more room in length and width. At 768Wh with a 40A BMS and LiFePO4 chemistry, it covers 250W to 900W motors on 48V or 52V systems.
At 149 dollars, it is one of BtrPower's more affordable LiFePO4 options, and the 4.9-star rating reflects strong early satisfaction from users who have put it through real-world use.
The Slim Form Factor Advantage
Most 48V 16Ah packs are rectangular boxes with a depth of around 7 to 8 inches. BtrPower's 16Ah breaks from that mold with a flat profile of 2.8 inches deep but wider at 6.1 inches. Those dimensions create possibilities for mounting options that would not be feasible using the longer, deeper profiles.
Note that BtrPower changed the size of this pack at some point. BtrPower notes in their listing that they originally had a 7.5 by 5.1 by 4.7 inch version that sold out, and the current shipping version is the 10.6 by 6.1 by 2.8 inch flat profile. Measure your mounting area carefully to see if the new dimensions will work for your build before ordering.
Specs at a Glance
- Voltage: 48V nominal (52V compatible, 16S1P)
- Capacity: 16Ah (768Wh)
- Chemistry: LiFePO4
- BMS: 40A built-in
- Motor compatibility: 250W to 900W
- Dimensions: 10.6 x 6.1 x 2.8 inches
- Cycle life: 1500 or more cycles
LiFePO4 Chemistry
LiFePO4 chemistry is the safest lithium chemistry currently used in ebike batteries. Puncture, overcharging, or short circuiting does not result in thermal runaway in a LiFePO4 battery. BtrPower estimates that this battery will deliver 1500 or more cycles to 80 percent capacity, which is a significant advantage in terms of battery lifespan over most other lithium-ion batteries.
The voltage range of the full charge cycle is 53.6V to 58.4V. When the pack rests, the voltage tends to fall off toward 53.6V after charging and disconnecting the battery, which is a common characteristic of LiFePO4 chemistry.
BMS
The 40A BMS protects against overcharge, over-discharge, overcurrent, and short circuits. Since the pack is capable of handling 900W of power, the 40A BMS provides a safe margin. On a 48V system, 900W divided by 48V equals approximately 18.75A of continuous current draw. The motor efficiency loss will add a bit to that number, but the 40A BMS has plenty of headroom.
In contrast, there were several instances where reviewers reported actual current output from the 25Ah BtrPower model was lower than the labeled BMS output. With the 16Ah model operating in the expected motor range, the 40A BMS should perform well within its design boundaries.
Range and Real-World Use
As a 768Wh battery, the 16Ah delivers good range for a commuter or casual recreational rider. Based on motor size, terrain, and assistance level, you can expect 20 to 35 miles of range per charge. Riders running smaller motors in the 250W to 500W range with pedaling assistance will likely get closer to the upper end of that range.
Several Amazon reviewers report positive experiences with this battery in various builds. One reviewer who has been purchasing and rotating BtrPower batteries for different trike setups reports great range and overall satisfaction with how the packs hold up over time.
Who This Battery Is For
Consider the BtrPower 48V 16Ah for:
- Builds that require a battery under 7 to 8 inches deep but can accommodate a flat wider profile
- Riders who want LiFePO4 safety and longevity without needing a large capacity pack
- 250W to 900W motor setups on 48V or 52V controllers
- Anyone converting from a lead-acid system who wants a flat replacement profile
If you need more range, the BtrPower 18Ah and 25Ah models offer more capacity in the same product line. See the full comparison table to compare capacity, dimensions, and price across the BtrPower lineup.
What Amazon Reviewers Say
The 4.9-star rating represents overwhelmingly positive reviews. Amazon reviewers appreciate the safety and longevity provided by the LiFePO4 chemistry relative to lithium-ion chemistry. The flat profile received specific praise from reviewers whose builds required a battery with a different set of dimensions.
BtrPower customer support also receives positive comments in the review section. Reviewers indicate that BtrPower responds quickly to questions and concerns regarding their products.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- LiFePO4 chemistry for safety and 1500 cycle longevity
- Flat 2.8-inch profile opens unique mounting options
- 40A BMS rated well above typical motor draw requirements
- 4.9-star Amazon rating
- BtrPower's track record for reliable and consistent performance
Cons:
- Lower capacity at 768Wh compared to the 25Ah or 50Ah options
- Motor range limited to 900W maximum
- Newer version changed dimensions from original, verify before ordering
FAQ
Is this battery compatible with a 52V controller? Yes. The 16S1P configuration of this pack allows it to be operated on either 48V or 52V systems.
What changed in the newer version of this battery? The original version measured 7.5 by 5.1 by 4.7 inches and sold out. The new version is 10.6 by 6.1 by 2.8 inches, providing a flat and wider profile. The capacity and chemistry of the battery remained unchanged.
How long does it take to charge? BtrPower does not provide the charger wattage rating on the main specification page. Typically at 3 amps of charge, a full recharge from empty will take 5 to 6 hours.
Why is LiFePO4 safer than regular lithium-ion? LiFePO4 is chemically stable and will not ignite due to punctures, overcharging, or short circuiting. Standard lithium-ion batteries may experience thermal runaway in these situations, creating a serious safety hazard for a battery mounted on a moving vehicle.
What warranty does this come with? BtrPower states a three-month money-back guarantee or replacement and a twelve-month warranty with forty-eight hour response to any issue.
How does this compare to the BtrPower 18Ah? The 18Ah offers 864Wh versus 768Wh for the 16Ah, with similar form factor. Both have the same 40A BMS and LiFePO4 chemistry. The 18Ah costs only a little more, so if the exact dimensions of the 16Ah are not critical, the 18Ah is worth considering.
Does the flat form factor change how the battery performs electrically? No. Only the dimensions and potential mounting options of the flat shape differ from a standard box-shaped battery of the same capacity. All characteristics of the BMS, cell capacity, and discharge rates are identical. The flat shape only changes how the battery fits in your build based on mounting needs.
Can this battery run a motor that draws close to 40A continuously? Since the BMS is rated at 40A, it will protect against continuous draws up to 40A, however drawing a BMS near its rated capacity for prolonged durations reduces its service life. Most 900W motors on a 48V system only draw approximately 18 to 20A of current continuously, giving a comfortable buffer. Heavy hill climbing or sustained full throttle operation could increase the draw, but the BMS should handle occasional peaks within its rated capacity.