Abstract: A drive wheel and suspension for a vehicle for mounting on a steering post to provide both a steering capability and propulsion to the vehicle. The drive wheel and suspension provides a spring suspension for that wheel of the vehicle, as well as what is effectively vehicle body mounting of the propulsion system so as to minimize un-sprung weight and to provide a compact assembly to support a suitable aesthetic and protective fender over the drive wheel and suspension.

Abstract: Rechargeable battery systems and methods having a plurality of power modules and a battery management system. The power modules each plug into the battery management system and each include cell state sensing and communication capabilities as well as individual cell charging capabilities. The battery management system monitors the state of the power modules and enables the chargers in the power modules as necessary and as allowed by the limits of the source of charging power. In a vehicle, the battery management system also may override or limit the vehicle capabilities based on state of charge of the batteries. Various other features are disclosed.

Abstract: A drive wheel and suspension for a vehicle for mounting on a steering post to provide both a steering capability and propulsion to the vehicle. The drive wheel and suspension provides a spring suspension for that wheel of the vehicle, as well as what is effectively vehicle body mounting of the propulsion system so as to minimize un-sprung weight and to provide a compact assembly to support a suitable aesthetic and protective fender over the drive wheel and suspension.

Abstract: Batteries and battery monitoring and charging systems. The preferred battery has a plurality of rechargeable cells connected in series, first and second power terminals, each connected to a respective end of the series connection of rechargeable cells, a first connector for connecting to a battery charger, the first connector having connector contacts connected to each of the plurality of rechargeable cells, the first connector also having connector contacts coupled to a serial communication link, and a processor coupled to sense the voltage of each rechargeable cell and control the serial communication link for communication of rechargeable cell voltages when a charger is connected to the first connector. The charger communicates with the battery over the serial communication link to monitor cell temperature, and to charge each cell individually in a controlled manner. Various features and capabilities are disclosed.

Abstract: Battery powered vehicle control system and methods which allow programming the characteristics and performance of the vehicle as suitable for its then intended use. Programming is through a separate switch which can be made inoperative to the vehicle user, and can be used to program maximum speed, lights, siren and other functions. A steering sensor may be used on the steering mechanism to automatically limit speed in turns. Other characteristics and features of the control system are disclosed.

Abstract: Batteries and battery monitoring and charging systems. The preferred battery has a plurality of rechargeable cells connected in series, first and second power terminals, each connected to a respective end of the series connection of rechargeable cells, a first connector for connecting to a battery charger, the first connector having connector contacts connected to each of the plurality of rechargeable cells, the first connector also having connector contacts coupled to a serial communication link, and a processor coupled to sense the voltage of each rechargeable cell and control the serial communication link for communication of rechargeable cell voltages when a charger is connected to the first connector. The charger communicates with the battery over the serial communication link to monitor cell temperature, and to charge each cell individually in a controlled manner. Various features and capabilities are disclosed.