Lead-acid batteries are commonly used in various modes of transportation due to their reliability and relatively low cost compared to other battery technologies.
- Automobiles: Lead-acid batteries are widely used in conventional gasoline-powered cars, hybrid vehicles, and electric vehicles (EVs) with limited range.
- Trucks and vans: Lead-acid batteries are also used in larger vehicles such as trucks and vans, particularly in vehicles with internal combustion engines.
- Motorcycles and scooters: Lead-acid batteries are commonly found in smaller vehicles like motorcycles and scooters, especially those with traditional engine designs.
- Marine vessels: Lead-acid batteries are used in various marine applications, including boats, yachts, and other watercraft for starting engines, powering onboard electronics, and providing auxiliary power.
- Golf carts and electric utility vehicles: Lead-acid batteries are frequently used to power electric golf carts, utility vehicles, and other low-speed electric vehicles commonly found in recreational areas, resorts, and industrial settings.
- Forklifts and material handling equipment: Lead-acid batteries are extensively used in industrial settings to power forklifts, pallet jacks, and other material handling equipment due to their ability to provide high bursts of power.
- Off-road vehicles and ATVs: Lead-acid batteries are utilized in off-road vehicles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), and utility task vehicles (UTVs) for starting engines and powering auxiliary equipment.
- Electric bicycles (e-bikes): Lead-acid batteries are sometimes used in electric bicycles, though they are less common in comparison to lithium-ion batteries due to their larger size and weight.
While lead-acid batteries are suitable for these transportation applications, they do have limitations such as lower energy density and weight compared to newer battery technologies like lithium-ion. As a result, in applications where weight and space are critical factors, such as electric cars with longer ranges, lithium-ion batteries are often preferred.
