Runtime with my HPI Vorza

Question:
Heya Doc,
I have a HPI Vorza and was wondering how much run time I should get from 2 3S LiPo batteries. Also, can you tell me the difference between ProRace LiPo batteries and normal LiPo batteries.

Appreciate it.
John

Answer:
Hey John.
There are two major factors to run time in any RC vehicle; 1) the mAh of the batteries and 2) how you drive it. First off, you want the highest mAh batteries you can afford as those will give you the longest run time. It’s hard to give an accurate estimate, but let’s assume you chose a 2000mAh battery. That battery might give you 4-5 minutes of run time in the Vorza (maybe). Throw in a 4000mAh battery and you’ll obviously extend your runtime.

Now, the second key issue is how you drive it. Muddle around your yard at 1/2 throttle and you could go for 20 minutes. Make multiple full-speed passes up and down your street and you might get only 6 minutes.

In my Vorza, I run a 5200mAh 50C Thunder Power Pro Race 4S LiPo pack. On the track (where I’m going fast but rarely at full throttle), I can get a good 12-13 minutes of run time. Put that same setup on my street out front of my house and I’m down to about 6 or 7. The faster you go (read: full throttle), the more energy you consume.

Now, ProRace and normal LiPos. The biggest difference is the name. In the olden days, a ProRace pack meant you have C-cell batteries that have been matched both in run time and power, so the ‘ProRace’ name had meaning and was definitely the way to go. With LiPos, it’s all in the name. There may be a slight difference but I wouldn’t go spending an additional $40+ on a ProRace pack unless I’m seriously into racing…and even then I’d bet a normal LiPo would be just fine.

Hope that helps.
The Doc