Report exclusively available for BCI members
Battery Council International (BCI) has partnered with CRU to publish a report on current growth rates and future trends in lead battery markets. The report uses full-year 2025 data from BCI on real battery sales along with metals market intelligence and expert analysis from CRU.
Key takeaways from the report include:
- In the automotive lead battery market, replacement shipments fell in 2025 by 1.6% after 2024 marked the highest growth since 2011. OE lead battery shipments dipped 3.9% in 2025. Automotive lead battery shipments are expected to bounce back in 2026, however, with forecasts of a 1.9% growth rate.
- In industrial truck and forklift batteries, BCI forecasts a 2.9% annual growth for LAB sales through 2028.
- In stationary storage, uninterruptable power supply (UPS) battery demand increased 21% in 2025, and future lead battery forecasts remain bullish through 2025-2028 with a compound annual growth rate of 4.5%.
- Regarding broader lead metals markets, North America’s refined lead market is expected to remain in deficit. Meanwhile, demand increased 2.3% in 2025 and is expected to grow an additional 1.5% in 2026.
The full report is available to BCI members. Users must have a login to the members-only portal that uses an email domain associated with a BCI member company.
With more than 80 years of sales statistics and annual market forecasts provided directly by its member companies, BCI is the exclusive provider of real-world data for the North American battery industry.
About CRU
Since our inception back in 1969, we have consistently prioritized primary research and robust methodologies; and have teams of experts around the world, including teams on the ground in China. With more than 450 experts across 14 locations worldwide, we partner with companies to successfully navigate the complexities of continuously changing commodity markets. In a changing world where industries and companies need to constantly adapt, CRU is committed to propelling your success forward. Whether it’s deciphering market trends or shaping sustainable strategies, CRU is here to empower you every step of the way. For more information, visit www.crugroup.com.
About Battery Council International
Battery Council International (BCI) is the leading trade association representing the global battery industry. Founded in 1924, BCI advocates and educates on behalf of battery manufacturers and recyclers, marketers and retailers, suppliers of raw materials and equipment, and battery distributors. With a unified voice, BCI conveys an industry-wide commitment to sustainability, safety, and science. BCI unites stakeholders across the battery industry to promote education, science, and advocacy efforts to support the next generation of energy storage solutions.
