Exide Industries, the largest manufacturer of lead acid storage batteries in South Asia, has entered into an agreement to jointly develop bi-polar technology with Atraverda Limited, UK, a research organization which has patented Ebonex® technology. If successful, this would make lead acid batteries smaller, lighter and more environmentally friendly. This joint research will enable Exide to develop bi-polar lead acid batteries for a range of power storage applications.

“The agreement with Atraverda is a small but significant step towards reinforcing Exide’s technology leadership. We have a track record of continuous upgradation of technology in respect of Lead acid storage batteries over the last few decades,” said managing director & CEO, Exide, TV Ramanathan.

“The development of bi-polar technology will take place at the new research block recently commissioned at Kolkata,” added research & development director, SK Mittal. Exide was the first Indian battery manufacturer to be accepted by Maruti Suzuki when they started operations in India. Exide were the first to introduce polypropylene batteries in the market and the first to come out with zero maintenance sealed batteries in India.

Commenting on the tie up, group CEO, Atraverda, Andrew Dixey said: “The agreement with Exide is a great step for Atraverda. By harnessing Exide’s experience, contacts and industry know how, we can evaluate the real impact of our Ebonex® technology.