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Lead batteries enable an energy-efficient, decarbonised transport sector

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With vehicles representing more than 30% of final energy consumption in Europe, the transition to an energy efficient, decarbonised transport sector is central to achieving Europe’s climate change targets.

As the technology behind ‘start-stop’ micro-hybrid vehicles, lead batteries are delivering up to 8% CO2 savings in a highly cost-effective manner. In fact, they are an essential onboard component in mild-hybrid, full-hybrid and electric vehicles (EVs) and can also be installed in EV charging stations to improve their efficiency.

The policy context

The 2015 Energy Union Strategy identified the transition to an energy efficient, decarbonised transport sector as a key area for action. The package of measures that followed in 2016 described the target of moving towards zero-emission vehicles, requiring further improvements to internal combustion engine vehicles and an accelerated transition towards low- and zero-emission vehicles.

Since then, three ‘Europe On the Move’ packages and accompanying legislative initiatives have outlined a long-term plan to deliver clean, socially fair, competitive mobility to all Europeans. This plan includes average CO2 emissions targets for new cars and vans that are 30% lower in 2030, compared to 2021. For new trucks there are reduction targets of 15% by 2025 and 30% by 2030 compared to 2019.

Europe on the Move III also introduced a Strategic Action Plan on Batteries focused on the challenge of developing sustainable Europe-based battery value chains to power the transition.

How lead batteries support the transition to an energy-efficient, decarbonised transport sector

Lead batteries are key to the shift to sustainable, low emission transport systems, supporting increased vehicle hybridisation and electrification, all the way from start-stop technology to full EVs.

One of the most cost-effective ways to yield fuel savings and reduce CO2 emissions is ‘stop-start technology’ – lead batteries enable vehicle fuel consumption and emissions by stopping the engine when the car comes to a full stop, and seamlessly restarting when the brake is released or the clutch is pressed.

By 2030 it is predicted that more than 80% of cars with an internal combustion engine sold in the EU will be micro-hybrids. The new car sales market will be dominated by those using this technology combined with regenerative braking, where the battery is able to store the energy generated by braking, saving the energy that would otherwise be lost. These advanced systems have the potential to eliminate millions of tons CO2 emissions without the need to drastically alter vehicle design.

Independent advisors confirm that lead batteries are still the only technology meeting the starter, backup power and safety function needs of all major car companies.

In industrial electric vehicles, especially forklift trucks and automated guided vehicles (AGVs) used for cleaning and railway applications, lead batteries represent approximately 90% of the EU motive battery power market – saving energy, as well as reducing emissions and noise. The clean mobility revolution depends the safety, reliability, sustainability and cost-effectiveness of lead batteries. Their unparalleled levels of safety and reliability are critical to ensuring the safety of drivers and passengers, while the low-cost lead batteries also provide them with an affordable option – key drivers in the adoption of e-mobility.

Analysts confirm that 12V lead batteries will remain essential in the transformation to electric mobility up to and beyond 2030.

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