SMM April 15 News: Dealers in Hubei reported that end-use consumption in the automotive storage battery market remained sluggish, and battery inventory digestion was slow. Currently, battery inventory exceeded one and a half months. In addition, selling prices in the battery wholesale market remained unchanged for the time being, with the main model 6-QW-45Ah priced at 180-200 yuan/unit. Manufacturers in Zhejiang reported that replacement demand in the automotive storage battery market was weak, and dealers were cautious in purchasing. To avoid further inventory buildup, the factory operating rate was approximately 80%. In addition, raw material lead was procured through long-term contracts. Manufacturers in Guangdong reported that the automotive storage battery market was in the off-season. Domestic sales of batteries were mediocre, and coupled with obstructed battery exports, the factory operating rate was currently around 70%, with raw material lead purchased as needed.
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