[alkyrion]

I'm doing a mostly custom scooter that's based on a retail 350W scooter.

The motor can likely take MUCH MORE than just that, as it barely gets hot in operation.
I'm planning to build my own control system, and now I'm at the point where I have to choose an ESC.

I'm using a 48V battery, and will implement power limiting based on motor temperature, so accidentally frying the motor won't really be a concern. It has hall sensors as well.

What ESC would you recommend? Anything I should watch out for?

[ClairMiller]

Building a custom electric scooter with a higher-powered motor and your own control system sounds like an exciting project! When selecting an Electronic Speed Controller (ESC) for your scooter, there are a few factors to consider to ensure compatibility and optimal performance:

Voltage Rating: Make sure the ESC you choose is rated for the same voltage as your battery, which in your case is 48V. Using an ESC with a lower voltage rating may damage the controller, and one with a higher rating is unnecessary and might not function optimally.

Current Rating: Since you plan to use a higher-powered motor, ensure the ESC can handle the higher current requirements. A 350W motor may have drawn a lower current, but with your modifications, the motor may now demand more current. Look for an ESC with a current rating that exceeds what your motor may require at peak performance.

Motor Type and Hall Sensors: Since your motor has hall sensors, make sure the chosen ESC supports the same motor type (brushless, brushed, etc.) and is compatible with hall sensor feedback.

Power Limiting: You mentioned implementing power limiting based on motor temperature, which is a great safety feature. Ensure the ESC has the necessary temperature sensor inputs and the capability to handle such a control mechanism.

Programmability: Consider using an ESC that allows you to adjust and fine-tune various parameters, such as throttle response, braking force, acceleration profiles, etc. This level of customization can help optimize your scooter's performance to your liking.

Cooling: Even if the motor doesn't get hot during normal operation, running a higher-powered motor could generate more heat. Consider an ESC with good thermal management and consider adding additional cooling measures to avoid overheating during prolonged use.

Reliability and Safety: It's essential to choose an ESC from a reputable brand known for producing reliable and safe products. Read reviews and user experiences to gauge the ESC's performance and quality.

Size and Mounting: Ensure the physical dimensions of the ESC are suitable for your scooter's available space, and it should have mounting holes or brackets that align with your scooter's frame.

As for a specific ESC recommendation, it's challenging to make a precise suggestion without knowing the exact specifications of your motor and other components. However, some popular brands known for producing quality ESCs for electric vehicles include VESC (Vedder's Electronic Speed Controller) and Hobbywing.

[ClairMiller]

For your custom scooter project, it's essential to choose a suitable ESC (Electronic Speed Controller) that can handle the increased power potential of your motor.