Operating rates at lead-acid battery makers steadied as consumption remained weak

SHANGHAI, May 22 (SMM) – Operating rate across lead-acid battery producers in Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Jiangxi, Hubei and Hebei provinces averaged 63.67% in the week ended May 22, unchanged from the previous week, showed an SMM survey.

The stable operations came as consumption of lead-acid batteries remained weak in a low season for replacement of batteries in electric bikes and automobiles. Large battery producers continued their sales promotion, while smaller producers maintained their production cuts.

On the other hand, demand for lead-acid batteries has yet to receive a substantial boost from the gradual economy reopening outside China, even as some automotive battery producers did see a mild improvement in new orders.