Operating rates at lead-acid battery makers dipped to 74.43% this week

SHANGHAI, Dec 4 (SMM) – Operating rates across lead-acid battery producers in Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Jiangxi, Hubei and Hebei provinces averaged 74.43% in the week ended December 4, down 0.16 percentage point from the prior week. 

Demand for lead-acid batteries especially e-bike batteries from distributors was tepid this week. Rising inventory pressure prompted some small and medium-scale battery makers to reduce production, which contributed to the decline in the operating rates this week. 

Large-scale battery makers are expected to keep stable production in December, and some automotive and communications battery makers whose orders have been scheduled to January 2021 will continue to operate at full capacity.