Operating rates at lead-acid battery makers unchanged on week

SHANGHAI, October 23 (SMM) – Operating rates across lead-acid battery producers in Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Jiangxi, Hubei and Hebei provinces averaged 72.31% in the week ended October 23, unchanged from the previous week. 

End-user consumption of both e-bike and automotive batteries weakened this week as falling lead prices kept distributors cautious. Large-scale battery makers operated as usually, while some small and medium-scale producers cut output. 

Most of the producers produced based on sales, while only a few of them were bullish on consumption in winter.