Top 10 Automotive Lead-Acid Battery Companies Worldwide
Lead-acid batteries have been a cornerstone of the automotive industry for over a century, powering everything from starter motors to lighting systems. Despite the growing popularity of lithium-ion batteries, lead-acid batteries remain widely used due to their reliability, cost-effectiveness, and recyclability. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the top automotive lead-acid battery companies around the globe, highlighting their contributions to the industry and what sets them apart.
1. Exide Technologies
| Establishment | 1888 |
| Headquarters | Georgia, United States |
| Website | https://www.exide.com/ |
Exide Technologies is a leading company in the stored electrical energy solutions. Founded in 1888, Exide specializes in manufacturing a wide range of lead-acid batteries for automotive, commercial, and industrial applications. The brand includes batteries for hybrid and electric vehicles, light vehicles, commercial vehicles, etc. The company has launched an innovative lithium-ion Solition Material Handling battery in 2024. With its cutting-edge lithium iron phosphate technology, this battery is designed to improve reliability, safety, and overall cost-effectiveness for material handling fleets. Its intelligent and sustainable electrification has the potential to revolutionize industrial operations. The key features of this battery include latest lithium iron phosphate prismatic cells for safe operations and optimized energy density, fast and opportunity charging capabilities, and design focused on safety and reliability.
Key Features
- Innovative Solutions: Exide is known for its advanced technology and commitment to research and development, focusing on enhancing battery performance and lifespan.
- Sustainability: The company prioritizes recycling and environmental responsibility, operating multiple recycling facilities worldwide.
2. Johnson Controls (Clarios)
| Establishment | 1885 |
| Headquarters | Cork, Ireland |
| Website | https://www.clarios.com/ |
Clarios, a subsidiary of Johnson Controls, is one of the largest manufacturers of lead-acid batteries in the world. They produce batteries for various applications, including automotive, marine, and industrial uses. Clarios automotive batteries and products provide the safety, comfort, convenience, connectivity, and mobility that people seek and require in today’s world. Around one in every three vehicles is powered by a Clarios battery worldwide. The company has 1.5 million customers around the world. The company designs, manufactures, recovers, and reuses batteries to develop more efficient and sustainable energy storage solutions.
Key Features
- Wide Product Range: Clarios offers a diverse lineup of batteries, including conventional flooded, absorbent glass mat (AGM), and enhanced flooded batteries (EFB).
- Global Reach: With facilities in over 15 countries, Clarios serves a vast market and is known for its strong distribution network.
3. Yuasa Battery, Inc.
| Establishment | 1979 |
| Headquarters | Laureldale, Pennsylvania |
| Website | https://www.yuasabatteries.com/ |
Yuasa Battery is a prominent name in the lead-acid battery sector, with a rich history dating back to 1979. The company specializes in manufacturing batteries for both automotive and industrial applications. The company has been producing powersports batteries in the US since 1979 and is the top manufacturer and distributor of batteries for motorcycles, ATVs, UTVs, snowmobiles, personal watercraft, and scooters. Yuasa’s parent company, GS Yuasa, holds the second largest share of the global lead-acid battery market. From deep-sea applications to outer space, GS Yuasa’s high-quality batteries deliver reliable performance in extreme conditions and help address social challenges, including reducing vehicle emissions and promoting renewable energy use.
Key Features
- Quality Assurance: Yuasa is renowned for its high-quality standards and has received numerous certifications for its products.
- Performance: Their batteries are designed for enhanced performance and reliability, making them a preferred choice among automotive manufacturers.
4. East Penn Manufacturing
| Establishment | 1946 |
| Headquarters | Pennsylvania, United States |
| Website | https://www.eastpennmanufacturing.com/ |
East Penn Manufacturing, known for its Deka brand, is one of the largest privately-owned battery manufacturers in North America. Founded in 1946, the company produces a wide array of lead-acid batteries. The company’s batteries meet high performance and safety needs of high-tech applications, and their high rate of recyclability helps make EVs greener. The company has a sustainable business model, and it has established a strategic decarbonization plan designed to steadily reduce carbon footprint.
Key Features
- Innovative Manufacturing: East Penn uses advanced manufacturing techniques and has invested in renewable energy for its production facilities.
- Strong Distribution: With a robust distribution network, East Penn ensures that its products are readily available across North America.
5. GS Yuasa Corporation
| Establishment | 2004 |
| Headquarters | Kyoto, Japan |
| Website | https://www.gs-yuasa.com/en/ |
GS Yuasa is a Japanese company with a strong presence in the lead-acid battery market, established in 2004 through a merger between two leading battery manufacturers. They produce batteries for various applications, including automotive, motorcycles, and industrial uses. The company is dedicated to leveraging advanced technologies in stored energy solutions to provide security and comfort to customers worldwide, while making a meaningful impact on global sustainability efforts. The company’s product portfolio includes automotive batteries and motorcycle batteries.
Key Features
- Research and Development: GS Yuasa invests heavily in R&D, leading to innovations in battery technology and performance.
- Global Operations: The company has a significant global footprint, exporting products to markets across the Americas, Europe, and Asia.
6. ATLASBX
| Establishment | 1944 |
| Headquarters | South Korea |
| Website | https://www.hankook-atlasbx.com/ |
ATLASBX is a South Korean battery manufacturer specializing in lead-acid batteries for automotive and industrial applications. The company has gained recognition for its high-quality products and innovative technologies. Hankook AtlasBX has been a trailblazer in the battery industry for 75 years, driving quality and growth in Korea’s battery sector. Hankook AtlasBX manufactures high-performance, high-quality batteries by prioritizing continuous research and development along with thorough quality inspections, ensuring the best products for its customers. With plants in Daejeon and Jeonju, Hankook AtlasBX has enhanced its distribution competitiveness through the operation of its North American facilities since 2020, continuing its legacy of innovation with distinctive technologies.
Key Features
- Technological Advancements: ATLASBX focuses on developing advanced battery technologies, including AGM and EFB batteries, to meet the evolving demands of the automotive industry.
- Commitment to Quality: The company emphasizes stringent quality control measures, ensuring the reliability and performance of its batteries.
7. EnerSys Ltd.
| Establishment | 2000 |
| Headquarters | Pennsylvania, United States |
| Website | https://www.enersys.com/ |
With its global manufacturing and operations supporting over 10,000 customers across 100 countries, the company is acknowledged as a leader in stored energy solutions and systems worldwide. Founded in 2000, the company has built a strong reputation for manufacturing high-performance lead-acid batteries. The company acquired Bren-Tronics in July 2024 and in September 2019, the company acquired NorthStar Battery Company.
Key Features
EnerSys provides a wide range of lead-acid batteries under the brand names Odyssey and DataSafe. These are well known for their durability and long service life. These batteries are majorly used in automotive applications, including start-stop vehicles and hybrid systems.
EnerSys is committed to innovation, investing in research and development to enhance battery efficiency and lifespan. Their state-of-the-art manufacturing processes ensure consistent quality across their product line.
8. Leoch International Technology Limited
| Establishment | 1999 |
| Headquarters | China |
| Website | https://www.leoch.com |
Leoch International Technology Limited, established in 1999, has emerged as one of the largest manufacturers of lead-acid batteries in the world. Headquartered in China, Leoch has expanded its operations globally, with a strong presence in Europe and North America. The company’s products are utilized in telecommunications systems, uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), automotive applications, renewable energy storage solutions, and various consumer and industrial products. Leoch Battery boasts a strong global presence, operating 18 advanced manufacturing facilities that cover a total area of 1.5 million square meters. The company’s international reach is further supported by more than 70 local service companies.
Key Features
Leoch produces a variety of lead-acid batteries, including sealed lead-acid (SLA) batteries, which are widely used in automotive applications. Their products are known for their reliability and are suitable for both conventional and electric vehicles.
9. Hitachi Chemical Company Ltd
| Establishment | 1962 |
| Headquarters | Tokyo, Japan |
| Website | http://www.hitachi-chem.co.jp |
Hitachi Chemical Company Ltd, a prominent player in the global battery manufacturing sector, has made significant strides in the development and production of lead-acid batteries. With a rich history rooted in innovation and quality, Hitachi Chemical has established itself as a reliable supplier for various industries, including automotive, industrial, and renewable energy.
Key Features
Hitachi Chemical produces a diverse array of lead-acid batteries designed for various applications. Their offerings include traditional flooded batteries, valve-regulated lead-acid (VRLA) batteries, and deep-cycle batteries. These products are known for their durability, high performance, and ability to withstand demanding conditions, making them suitable for both conventional vehicles and specialized applications such as electric vehicles and backup power systems.
10. C&D Technologies, Inc.
| Establishment | 1906 |
| Headquarters | Horsham Township |
| Website | https://www.cdtechno.com/ |
C&D Technologies, established in 1906, is a well-respected name in the lead-acid battery market. The company focuses on manufacturing batteries for telecommunications, uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), and transportation.
Key Features
C&D’s automotive lead-acid batteries are known for their high-performance capabilities and reliability. They offer a variety of products tailored for specific automotive applications, ensuring optimal performance in various driving conditions.
Tips you need to increase your Automotive Battery life:
Tip 1: Regular Maintenance Checks:
One should perform regular maintenance checks on battery as it can significantly extend its lifespan. This can be done by inspecting the battery terminals for corrosion, which can impede electrical flow. Also, one should clean any buildup using a mixture of baking soda and water and ensure that connections are tight.
Tip 2: Checking Temperature:
Battery performance can be impacted by extreme temperatures. High heat can accelerate fluid evaporation, while cold weather can decrease battery capacity. Thus, one should keep one’s vehicle in a garage or shaded area during hot weather and make use of battery blankets during colder climates.
Tip 3: Conserving Battery Life:
Electronics like radio, lights should be turned off when the engine is off. Moreover, one should avoid short trips as these may not give the battery enough time to recharge.
Tip 4: Taking Vehicle for Longer Drives:
Regularly taking your vehicle for longer drives can greatly benefit your battery. A longer drive allows the battery to replenish and maintain its charge, promoting overall health.
Accordingto TechSci Research report “Lead Acid Battery Market – Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast 2018-2028, Segmented By Product (Stationary, Motive, and Start Light & Ignition Batteries (SLI)), By Construction Method (Flooded and Valve Regulated Led Acid (VRLA) Batteries), By Sales Channel (Original Equipment Market (OEM) & Aftermarket), By Applications (Transportation, Industrial Motive, Stationary Industrial, Residential, and Commercial), By Region,” Global Lead Acid Battery Market is expected to grow at a robust pace in the forecast period 2024-2028. The market growth is driven by various factors, such as rise in demand for renewable energy storage, expansion of automotive sector, increase in demand for UPS systems, etc.
Factors Driving the Growth of Global Lead Acid Battery Market:
1.Rise in Demand for Renewable Energy Storage
There has been rise in the adoption of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, which is driving the need for effective energy storage solutions. Lead-acid batteries are widely used in energy storage systems to manage fluctuations in power supply, thereby making them crucial for balancing renewable energy generation and consumption.
2. Expansion of Automotive Sector
With the growth in vehicle production, particularly in developing countries, the demand for lead-acid batteries for starting, lighting, and ignition (SLI) applications continues to rise. Additionally, the increasing popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) is further stimulating interest in lead-acid batteries for hybrid systems.
3. Increase Demand for Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) Systems
In both residential and industrial applications, the lead-acid batteries are used in UPS systems. With both businesses and consumers seeking reliable backup power solutions, the demand for lead-acid batteries in UPS applications is likely to increase, thereby driving market growth.
4. Cost-Effectiveness
Lead-acid batteries are affordable compared to other battery technologies, which makes them an attractive option for various applications. Their established reliability and robustness also contribute to their continued use, particularly in sectors where cost and dependability are critical.
5. Industrial Applications
There has been increased reliance on lead-acid batteries for applications such as forklifts, backup power systems, and material handling equipment in the industrial sector. With the expansion and modernization of industries, the demand for durable and efficient power sources, like lead-acid batteries, continues to grow.
6. Technological Advancements
Technological advancements in lead-acid batteries, including improvements in efficiency, longevity, and recyclability, are enhancing their appeal. Developments such as advanced lead-acid batteries (like AGM and gel batteries) provide better performance and durability, driving their further adoption.
7. Government Initiatives and Regulations
Government policies aimed at promoting renewable energy and improving energy storage solutions are also boosting the demand for lead-acid batteries. Stricter regulations on emissions and incentives for renewable energy projects encourage the use of lead-acid batteries as a transitional technology in energy systems.
8. Environmental Considerations
Lead-acid batteries are among the most recycled consumer products, with a recycling rate exceeding 95%. This sustainable aspect is increasingly important as consumers and industries focus on environmental responsibility, further promoting the use of lead-acid batteries.
Thus, the global lead-acid battery market is poised for continued growth, driven by a combination of rising energy demands, technological advancements, and a focus on sustainability. As industries evolve and new applications emerge, lead-acid batteries will remain a crucial component in the energy landscape.Top of Form
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Conclusion: The lead-acid battery market remains robust, with several companies at the forefront of innovation and production. While the industry faces challenges from alternative battery technologies, the reliability, cost-effectiveness, and established infrastructure of lead-acid batteries ensure their continued relevance in the automotive sector. As these companies innovate and adapt to changing market demands, they will play a crucial role in shaping the future of automotive energy storage solutions. Whether you’re an automotive manufacturer, a consumer, or simply interested in battery technology, staying informed about these top players can provide valuable insights into the world of lead-acid batteries.
