**Who Makes Automotive Batteries? An Overview of Key Manufacturers**
When it comes to vehicles, whether they’re traditional internal combustion engines or electric vehicles (EVs), the battery is a critical component that powers the engine and supports various electronic systems. But have you ever wondered, “Who makes automotive batteries?” Let’s explore some of the leading manufacturers that produce these essential power sources.
### Major Automotive Battery Manufacturers
#### 1. **Johnson Controls (Clarios)**
– **Overview:** Historically, Johnson Controls was a major player in the automotive battery industry. In 2019, Johnson Controls sold its automotive battery division to Brookfield Business Partners, which rebranded it as **Clarios**.
– **Brands:** Clarios produces batteries under various brand names including **Optima, Varta, and Autobatterie**.
– **Global Presence:** Clarios supplies batteries to many car manufacturers and aftermarket retailers worldwide.
#### 2. **Exide Technologies**
– **Overview:** An American company with a long history, Exide Technologies manufactures a wide range of batteries, including those for automotive applications.
– **Brands:** Their automotive batteries are sold under brands like **Exide, Duralife, and Motocross**.
– **Focus:** Exide supplies batteries for both OEM (original equipment manufacturer) and aftermarket sectors globally.
#### 3. **Bosch**
– **Overview:** Bosch, a German multinational engineering and technology company, is renowned for its automotive components, including batteries.
– **Products:** Bosch produces high-quality lead-acid batteries for passenger cars, commercial vehicles, and EVs.
– **Reputation:** Known for reliability and innovation in battery technology.
#### 4. **Panasonic**
– **Overview:** A major player in the EV battery market, Panasonic supplies lithium-ion batteries for many electric vehicles.
– **Partnerships:** Panasonic has a notable partnership with Tesla, providing batteries for Tesla’s EVs.
– **Focus:** Their focus is largely on advanced lithium-ion battery technology for electric and hybrid vehicles.
#### 5. **LG Energy Solution**
– **Overview:** A leading manufacturer of lithium-ion batteries, LG Energy Solution supplies batteries for EVs and hybrid vehicles.
– **Clients:** They work with automakers like GM, Hyundai, and others to develop and produce EV batteries.
– **Innovation:** Known for cutting-edge battery technology and scalable manufacturing.
#### 6. **Samsung SDI**
– **Overview:** Samsung SDI manufactures lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles, energy storage, and other electronic applications.
– **Market:** Their batteries are used in various EV models and contribute to the global shift toward electrification.
#### 7. **A123 Systems**
– **Overview:** Specializes in lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries, often used in electric vehicles, hybrid buses, and energy storage systems.
– **Innovation:** Focuses on high-performance and fast-charging battery technology.
### OEM vs. Aftermarket Batteries
– **Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Batteries:** These are supplied directly to automakers for installation during vehicle manufacturing. Many automakers partner with the above manufacturers or develop proprietary batteries.
– **Aftermarket Batteries:** These are sold separately for replacement purposes and are produced by many of the companies listed above, often under different brand names.
### Conclusion
The automotive battery industry is diverse, with global giants like Clarios, Exide, Bosch, Panasonic, LG Energy Solution, and Samsung SDI leading the way. Each plays a vital role in ensuring vehicles—from traditional combustion engines to modern electric cars—are powered reliably. As the industry shifts increasingly toward electrification, manufacturers specializing in lithium-ion and advanced battery technologies are becoming even more critical in shaping the future of transportation.
Whether you’re replacing a car battery or interested in EV battery technology, knowing who makes these batteries can help you make informed decisions about quality and reliability.
