- In October 2024, Kinetic Green Energy and Power Solutions Limited launched a limited-edition Safar Smart electric three-wheeler in India, available with both lead-acid and lithium-ion battery variants. The lead-acid battery option, featuring a 150 Ah capacity, was introduced to cater to cost-conscious consumers in urban and rural markets. The vehicle includes enhanced features like a music system and floor mats, with financing options through partnerships with Cholamandalam Finance and ReVfin Finance, driving demand for affordable lead-acid batteries in the electric three-wheeler segment. This launch highlights the continued relevance of lead-acid batteries in emerging markets for last-mile mobility solutions.
- In August 2024, Mahindra Last Mile Mobility Limited introduced the e-Alfa Plus, an electric three-wheeler designed for both urban and rural transportation in India. The vehicle is equipped with a 150 Ah lead-acid battery, delivering a peak power of 1.95 kW and a real-world range of over 100 km per charge. This launch targets the growing demand for cost-effective electric vehicles in India’s commercial transportation sector, reinforcing the role of lead-acid batteries in providing reliable and affordable energy storage for electric three-wheelers, particularly in price-sensitive markets.
- In July 2024, Exide Industries Ltd., a leading Indian battery manufacturer, launched an advanced Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) battery specifically designed for automotive starting, lighting, and ignition (SLI) applications. This new AGM battery offers improved charge acceptance and durability, catering to the increasing adoption of start-stop technology in passenger cars and hybrid vehicles. The launch strengthens Exide’s position in the global market by addressing the demand for high-performance lead-acid batteries that meet stringent fuel efficiency and emission standards, particularly in Asia-Pacific and Europe.
- In May 2023, Infineon Technologies AG, a global semiconductor leader, launched the PSoC 4 HVPA-144K microcontroller, designed for automotive battery management systems (BMS). This microcontroller integrates high-precision analog and high-voltage subsystems on a single chip, enabling accurate monitoring of 12V lead-acid batteries used in conventional and start-stop vehicles. The technology enhances battery performance and lifespan, supporting the growing need for advanced battery management in internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, particularly in North America and Europe, where lead-acid batteries remain dominant.
- In April 2024, Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Corporation announced a strategic partnership with Exide Energy Solutions Ltd. to localize electric vehicle (EV) battery production in India. While the collaboration primarily focuses on lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) cells, Exide Industries, traditionally known for lead-acid batteries, is leveraging this partnership to expand its expertise in battery manufacturing. The initiative includes plans to continue supplying lead-acid batteries for auxiliary functions in hybrid and ICE vehicles, reinforcing their importance in India’s automotive market, which is a key growth region for lead-acid battery demand.
