The invention is to a controller for a DC electric motor having a first drive circuit and a second drive circuit that operate in a first state and a second state wherein, in the first state, circuits are connected with terminals input and are responsive to the control signals for receiving a load current and selectively energising winding to create torque in motor. In the second state, circuit is disconnected from terminal such that: circuit is able to be responsive to current for generating a first DC charging current to batteries; and circuit is able to connect with a terminal and be responsive to a second DC charging current for selectively directing an energizing current through winding.