Performance versus cosmetics
Game materials distinguish battery and motor upgrades from cosmetic tuning. Battery and motor upgrades are associated with crate rewards and improved payouts; paint, wheels, decals and accessories change how the scooter looks. Check the upgrade description before buying.
If your goal is faster progression, first learn which item changes performance in your current version. Crates involve random rewards, so avoid spending your entire balance before confirming the upgrade path. No verified stat table gives exact gains.