Aftermarket experts are beginning to find that short-lived batteries in fleets may be due to the wrong choice in the vehicle alternator. Over the years, the alternator’s job has become more complex. Before, the typical heavy-duty vehicle could operate effectively with 40 amps of electrical current, which was enough to power the ignition, fuel and light systems. Fast forward to today and that threshold is rapidly...

Knowing the right battery solution to use to power your Recreational Vehicle (RV) can be a challenging task, especially given the different chemistries that are available on the market today. When this topic arises, we find that some customers have many more questions than answers. Below, please find a few of the commonly asked questions we receive and our team’s advice to help achieve optimal...

Maritime enthusiasts now have a multitude of battery designs to choose from to power their vessel forward. Inadvertently investing in the wrong chemistry could be the difference between a fun day out on the water or costly equipment downtime that results in a delay in the excitement. Here’s a general overview of the current battery chemistries available for marine applications: Flooded Lead Acid Batteries  Flooded lead acid batteries...

A heavy-duty battery is one of the most important components assembled within the vehicle – responsible for not only starting the engine, but also keeping any onboard electronics, such as the radio or GPS, in operation. It’s beneficial to recognize the benefits and features of the different battery chemistries available on the market today to equip your fleet with the ideal power solution. From conventional flooded...

Earlier this year, our team of ODYSSEY® battery experts at EnerSys weighed in on frequently asked questions they receive from customers related to an auxiliary battery. This time around, we are going to explore questions our customers pose related to general vehicle battery performance including proper installation, maintenance and charging as well as the different chemistries available on the market today and how to select...

It’s best practice in the industry to do periodic preventative maintenance checks on your trucks. Whether it is every 6 months or every so many miles, having a preventative maintenance plan can keep your fleet running and your drivers safe. As part of your preventative maintenance program, you should also consider checking the trucks electrical system and its batteries. Here are some tips to keep in mind...

As a rule of thumb, a digital voltmeter is usually the first step in determining the battery’s State of Charge (SOC) as it measures its Open Circuit Voltage (OCV) to indicate the charge current required to provide a full charge. The battery manufacturer’s specifications will ultimately determine what OCV corresponds to 100 percent SOC, as well as what type of charger is needed for that...

October is Fall Car Care Month and the opportune time to check in on the condition of your vehicle by conducting maintenance to your onboard components as needed. This includes everything from the cabin air filter, tires, brakes, automatic locks and windshield wiper fluid to the battery – which is responsible for not only starting the engine but keeping the in-cabin electronics and accessories in...

As the season changes and the weather begins to cool, many motorcycle owners opt to store their bike until the warmer weather resurfaces again in a few months. As with any piece of equipment, proper care and maintenance of a motorcycle – even while sitting idle – can add to its overall operation and longevity. This is especially true for the battery, which plays a...

Not knowing a battery’s true state of health can be trouble and may lead to unnecessary downtime. Thankfully, innovative monitoring software is now available to end-users that can actively track a range of battery health and performance data and then communicate that information directly to the customer via their cell phone or smart device. With the ability to review battery trends on a 24/7 basis, additional benefits...

When it comes to recharging the battery in your application – whether it be a motorboat, Recreational Vehicle (RV) or an All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) – there’s never been a true “one-size fits all” solution – that is, until now! ODYSSEY® battery chargers are lightweight, highly portable and can efficiently and quickly charge ODYSSEY® batteries as well as premium brands of Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM), conventional flooded...

Experts forecast that within the next decade, the global motorcycle market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4 percent, reaching $200 billion. Motorcycles are popular among consumers due to their affordable prices, fuel efficiency, high-speed capabilities and ease of use. Enthusiasts depend on the performance of their battery to help ensure a smooth ride every time they go to put their feet on...

BRiSCA Formula 1 star, Lee Fairhurst, is eyeing up becoming a two-time World Champion as he gears up for another season with EnerSys on board as a main ODYSSEY® battery sponsor. Fairhurst made racing history in 2012 when he became the first stock car racing driver to win a world final from the back row of the grid. After battling his way to winning the title...

There’s nothing more frustrating than prepping your Recreational Vehicle (RV) for a summer excursion only to discover that your battery has failed. There are a variety of reasons why this could have happened – from improper storage or recharging to a build-up of corrosion on the battery terminals due to a lack of regular maintenance and upkeep. Considered the main source of power, the battery is...

Truck racing is a family affair for Stuart Oliver and his son, Michael, who are gearing up for success in the British Truck Racing Championship. Better known on the race circuit as Team Oliver Racing, the duo will take part in seven events and a total of 43 races this season in a bid to claim the British Truck Racing Championship title. The competition got off...