1. Reliability and Durability: Lead-acid batteries have been used in vehicles for over a century and have proven their reliability and durability over time. They can withstand the vibrations, jolts, and temperature variations encountered during vehicle operation.
2. High Cranking Power: Storage cells provide high cranking power, which is essential for starting an engine. They can deliver a significant amount of current in a short period, allowing the starter motor to engage and rotate the engine.
3. Deep Discharge Capability: Lead-acid batteries have a relatively high tolerance for deep discharges. This means they can be discharged to a lower state of charge without significant damage to the battery. This feature is important in vehicles where electrical systems may draw power even when the engine is off.
4. Rechargeability: Storage cells are rechargeable, meaning they can be repeatedly discharged and recharged without losing their capacity. This makes them suitable for automotive applications where the battery is constantly cycled during starting and charging while driving.
5. Cost-effectiveness: Lead-acid batteries are relatively inexpensive compared to other battery technologies. This cost-effectiveness is a crucial factor in their widespread use in vehicles where affordability is a significant consideration.
While lead-acid batteries dominate the automotive industry, advancements in battery technology are continually exploring alternatives such as lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles due to their higher energy density, lighter weight, and longer lifecycles. However, lead-acid batteries remain the most widely used option in conventional gasoline-powered vehicles due to their established performance, reliability, and affordability.
