48cc

48cc refers to an engine displacement of 48 cubic centimeters. One cubic centimeter is equivalent to one milliliter, so 48 cc equals 0.048 liters or about 2.93 cubic inches. The term is widely used to describe small internal combustion engines found in devices such as scooters, mopeds, pocket bikes, go-karts, chainsaws, and other handheld or light industrial equipment.

Most 48cc engines are either two-stroke or four-stroke. Two-stroke designs historically offered higher power-to-weight ratios, which made them common in budget or performance-focused small machines. Four-stroke 48cc engines are increasingly common in modern equipment due to better fuel efficiency and emissions control, though they may produce less peak power than comparable two-stroke designs.

Power output and performance depend on more than displacement. Factors include engine design, carburetion or fuel injection, exhaust systems, gearing, and allowable revolutions per minute. Typical 48cc configurations deliver a few horsepower (roughly 1.5 to 3 kW), enabling light- to moderate-speed operation appropriate for small scooters or outdoor power tools. Production standards and emissions regulations can vary by country, influencing available models and tuning.

In regulatory contexts, 49cc or 50cc classes are often treated as a distinct category for licensing, taxation, or vehicle registration in some jurisdictions. The designation "cc" communicates displacement, not the overall power or top speed, which are determined by the complete engine and vehicle design.