Since their conception, lead-acid batteries have found homes in a wide variety of essential tools that contribute to the supply chain. Without lead-acid batteries and their reliable functionality, the world as we know it would be trickier and more frustrating to navigate.
Lead-acid batteries can provide both starting and deep cycling power. When used as starting power, these batteries may be found in cars or other motorized vehicle engines. They are the reason why our car starts and gets us to work on time in the morning. There are alternatives to lead-acid batteries, but none that have been in use for over 150 years.
As the electric vehicle (EV) industry has grown, much of the conversation has surrounded lithium batteries which are being used as the primary battery source by several companies. In electric vehicles, lithium batteries store and distribute energy that “moves” the vehicle, but modern electric vehicles almost always have a lead-acid battery that works alongside or independently from a lithium battery. Lead-acid batteries in EV’s are not typically used as the main propulsion system, but they power other features like lights, windows, and locks, and they can provide starting power.
Compared to lithium batteries, lead-acid batteries are relatively inexpensive, far more recyclable, and can tolerate extreme environments better. One critical point to lead-acid batteries is their need for routine maintenance and watering to extend their life cycle. A lead-acid battery has a “life expectancy” of three to five years, but with proper maintenance, that lifespan can be extended to 10+ years.
A “flooded” system lead-acid battery requires maintenance/watering depending on usage. A battery that is run often and frequently depleted of charge means that it will require more frequent maintenance.
Our watering systems make this process easy, even in electric vehicles! We manufacture watering kits specifically for electric vehicles, so the customer doesn’t have to try and fit an unspecialized system to their battery. Check out our electric vehicle kits here.
In some electric vehicles, the lead acid batteries that are used for starting power or electrical components are a part of a “closed system.” This means that the battery is sealed, inaccessible and does not require routine watering. You can talk to your vehicle manufacturer or sales representative to learn what kind of lead acid battery your vehicle has.
