Traxxas USB-C Multi-Chemistry Charger, 40W, 6-7 cell NiMH/2-3 cell LiPo with iD Auto Battery Identification TRX2985

Overview

The Traxxas USB-C Multi-Chemistry Charger (TRX2985) is a versatile, portable charging solution designed for RC enthusiasts across the UK who demand fast, reliable battery charging without compromise. Whether you're a dedicated RC car UK hobbyist, a weekend basher, or someone just discovering the world of ready to run RC vehicles, this 40-watt charger delivers the performance and convenience you need to keep your models powered and ready for action. With support for both NiMH and LiPo battery chemistries, this single charger eliminates the need for multiple devices, making it an essential addition to any RC model shop owner's toolkit.

What truly sets this charger apart is its integration of Traxxas's revolutionary iD® auto battery identification technology. The moment you connect any iD-equipped Traxxas battery, the charger automatically recognises the battery type and optimises all charging parameters instantly—no guesswork, no manual adjustments, no risk of charging errors. This intelligent system represents a significant safety advancement in the RC hobby, particularly for those new to RC charging who might otherwise struggle with complex charger menus and settings.

Powered by a standard USB-C connection, this charger offers unprecedented portability and convenience. Unlike traditional wall-mounted chargers that tie you to a fixed location, the TRX2985 works with any modern USB-C power supply, meaning you can charge your Traxxas batteries at home, in the garage, at the track, or anywhere you have access to USB-C power. This makes it perfect for RC competitions, club meetings, or simple garden bashings where you need quick turnaround charging between runs.

Key Features

• USB-C Power Input — The charger connects to any standard USB-C power supply, offering unmatched portability and flexibility compared to traditional barrel-connector chargers. This means you can use any compatible USB-C adapter, power bank, or supply you already own, making it genuinely convenient for RC car UK enthusiasts who want to charge on the go.
• 40+ Watt, 4-Amp Maximum Output — With a powerful 40-watt output rating and up to 4-amp charging current capability, this charger delivers fast charging speeds that significantly reduce downtime between RC sessions. The higher the amperage, the quicker your batteries return to full capacity, allowing you to maximise your running time at the track or in the garden.
• Multi-Chemistry Battery Support — This single charger handles both NiMH and LiPo battery chemistries in a wide range of configurations: 5-7 cell NiMH batteries and 2-3 cell LiPo batteries. This versatility means whether you're charging traditional NiMH batteries or modern LiPo packs, the TRX2985 is equipped to handle your power needs safely and efficiently.
• Traxxas iD® Auto Battery Identification — The intelligent iD technology automatically detects which type of iD-equipped battery you've connected and instantly optimises all charge settings without requiring any manual input. This eliminates the most common charging errors and makes the system exceptionally safe, particularly valuable for younger RC enthusiasts or those new to the hobby.
• Built-In Balance Charging — The integrated balance charging capability ensures that each individual cell within your LiPo battery pack is charged to perfectly matched voltage levels. Balanced cells extend battery lifespan, improve performance consistency, and reduce the risk of cell failure during use—a critical safety feature for brushless RC vehicles.
• Adjustable Charging Current — Users can manually adjust the charging amperage up to the maximum 4-amp output, allowing you to match charging speeds to your specific battery requirements and preferences. Lower amperage charges are gentler on batteries and extend their lifespan, whilst higher amperages offer faster turnaround times.
• LED Progress Indicator — A built-in LED provides clear visual feedback on the charging status, allowing you to monitor progress at a glance and know instantly when your batteries are fully charged without needing to check a screen or display.
• Compact and Portable Design — Measuring just 59mm × 55mm × 19mm and weighing only 61 grams, this charger is genuinely pocket-sized and takes up minimal space in your RC kit bag, toolbox, or garage. Its small footprint makes it perfect for transport to races, training sessions, or RC club meetings across the UK.

Technical Performance

The Traxxas TRX2985 USB-C Multi-Chemistry Charger represents a significant engineering achievement in portable RC charging technology. The 40-watt power delivery system, combined with intelligent power management circuitry, enables rapid charging of both traditional NiMH batteries and modern lithium polymer (LiPo) batteries across a wide compatibility range. For NiMH applications, the charger supports 5-7 cell battery packs, providing exceptional flexibility for various RC models and setups. On the LiPo side, it handles 2-3 cell configurations, making it ideal for lightweight RC vehicles including brushless models equipped with Traxxas's BL-2s or Titan power systems. The 4-amp maximum charging current ensures genuinely fast turnaround times—for reference, a 3000mAh LiPo battery can typically reach full charge in approximately 45-50 minutes at maximum current, though users can reduce this for more conservative charging if preferred. The built-in balance charging system automatically adjusts individual cell charge voltages to maintain perfect parity across the LiPo pack, a critical factor in extending battery lifespan and maintaining consistent performance. The charger's intelligent iD system uses proprietary connector identification to determine battery chemistry and capacity instantly, eliminating the possibility of plugging a NiMH battery into LiPo mode or vice versa—a safety advancement that has proven invaluable across the RC hobby. Construction quality is solid throughout, with a compact aluminium and plastic housing design that dissipates heat effectively during extended charging sessions. The USB-C interface itself utilises modern connector technology, offering better durability and faster, safer power delivery compared to older micro-USB standards. Input requirements are modest: the charger requires a minimum 10-watt USB-C power supply for basic charging, though the full 40-watt output requires a 45-watt minimum supply, making it compatible with most modern laptop and tablet chargers available in the UK market.

What's in the Box

• Traxxas USB-C Multi-Chemistry Charger (TRX2985)
• USB-C charging cable

What You Need to Complete

• USB-C Power Supply: A 45-watt USB-C power adapter to achieve maximum charging output (minimum 10-watt supply for basic charging functionality)
• Traxxas iD-Equipped Battery: The charger is optimised for Traxxas iD batteries; traditional batteries without iD connectors require manual settings adjustment

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the Traxxas iD system and why is it important? — Traxxas iD is an intelligent automatic battery identification system that recognises your battery the moment it's connected and automatically optimises all charger settings. This removes guesswork, prevents dangerous charging errors, and ensures perfect charging parameters every single time. It's particularly valuable for RC enthusiasts in the UK who want safe, foolproof charging without needing to understand complex charger menus or battery specifications.
• Can this charger work with my existing non-iD Traxxas batteries? — Whilst the charger is primarily optimised for iD-equipped batteries, it can technically charge non-iD NiMH and LiPo batteries if you manually select the correct chemistry and cell count through the charger's controls. However, you lose the automatic safety and optimisation benefits that make the iD system so valuable, so we recommend upgrading to iD batteries where possible.
• What USB-C power supply do I need to use this charger? — For maximum 40-watt output and 4-amp charging current, you'll need a 45-watt USB-C power adapter. Most modern laptop chargers (such as those for recent MacBooks or high-end laptops) will work perfectly. For basic charging with reduced amperage, a minimum 10-watt supply will function, though you'll see significantly slower charging speeds.
• Is this charger suitable for brushless RC vehicles? — Yes, absolutely. The TRX2985 is specifically designed to charge LiPo batteries, which are the standard power source for brushless RC models. The charger's 2-3 cell LiPo capacity is perfect for brushless vehicles equipped with Traxxas's BL-2s or Titan systems, which typically use 2-cell LiPo packs for lightweight, high-performance running.
• How long does it take to charge a typical LiPo battery? — Charging time depends on battery capacity and the amperage you select. For example, a common 3000mAh 2-cell LiPo battery will charge in approximately 45-50 minutes at maximum 4-amp output. You can reduce the amperage for gentler, slower charging if you prefer to extend battery lifespan.
• Is this charger good for beginners? — Absolutely, and that's one of its key strengths. The automatic iD identification system takes all the guesswork out of charging, making it virtually impossible to damage a battery through incorrect settings. Beginners simply connect their iD battery, and the charger handles everything automatically. This makes it one of the safest charging solutions for those new to RC hobbies across the UK.
• Can I charge both NiMH and LiPo batteries with the same charger? — Yes, that's precisely what this multi-chemistry charger is designed for. You can charge 5-7 cell NiMH packs or 2-3 cell LiPo packs, and if you're using iD batteries, the charger automatically detects which type you've connected and optimises settings accordingly. This eliminates the need for separate chargers for different battery chemistries.
• What makes this charger better than standard RC chargers? — The primary advantages are the USB-C portability (charge anywhere with USB-C power), the automatic iD identification system (eliminating user error), the compact size (weighing just 61 grams), and the multi-chemistry capability (handling both NiMH and LiPo in one unit). Traditional chargers typically require wall power, manual settings selection, and separate units for different battery types.
• Is the built-in balance charging important for LiPo batteries? — Yes, significantly. Balance charging ensures each cell in your LiPo pack charges to identical voltage levels. Imbalanced cells reduce performance, shorten battery lifespan, and create safety risks including potential cell failure during use. The TRX2985's built-in balance charging is therefore a critical safety and longevity feature for any LiPo-powered RC vehicle.
• Can I leave a battery charging unattended? — The LED progress indicator allows you to monitor charging status visually, and the charger automatically stops when batteries reach full charge. Whilst LiPo batteries benefit from occasional monitoring, the charger's safety features and automatic cut-off make unattended charging reasonably safe, particularly with the iD system preventing overcharge conditions.

Why Buy from RC Model Shop?

RC Model Shop is a trusted UK RC retailer and authorised dealer for all the brands we stock, including Traxxas, ARRMA, Losi, FTX, Hobbywing, Spektrum and more. Based in Walsall, we have a physical store where customers are welcome to come in, view products and purchase in store. Whether you are a seasoned competitor, a weekend basher, or just discovering the world of RC for the first time, our team of experienced RC enthusiasts is here to help you find the perfect setup and provide ongoing support. Order the Traxxas USB-C Multi-Chemistry Charger, 40W, 6-7 cell NiMH/2-3 cell LiPo with iD Auto Battery Identification TRX2985 today with confidence, knowing you are buying from an authorised retailer with genuine products, expert knowledge and a commitment to customer satisfaction. Shop online or visit us in Walsall — we look forward to helping you get the most out of your RC experience.