The world of batteries is buzzing, and 2025 is shaping up to be a big year. We’re seeing some serious players really stepping up their game in the big battery manufacturers space. These companies aren’t just making batteries; they’re powering the future of electric cars and storing energy from renewable sources. It’s a rapidly changing scene, and keeping track of who’s leading the pack is pretty interesting, especially with how much demand there is right now for all sorts of battery tech. Let’s take a look at some of the top big battery manufacturers making waves.
Key Takeaways
- Asian companies, particularly those from China, continue to dominate the global big battery manufacturers market, especially in EV batteries.
- CATL and BYD are leading the charge, showing significant growth and market share in the production of lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles and energy storage.
- While Chinese manufacturers hold a large portion of the market, South Korean and Japanese companies like LG Energy Solution, Samsung SDI, SK Innovation, and Panasonic are also major players with innovative technologies.
- The demand for batteries is expanding beyond EVs to include various industrial and consumer applications, pushing big battery manufacturers to increase production capacity.
- Innovation in battery technology, such as solid-state batteries, is an area where other countries might find opportunities to compete with China’s current dominance in lithium-ion production.
1. Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Ltd. (CATL)
Alright, let’s talk about CATL. This Chinese powerhouse has really made a name for itself in the battery world, especially for electric vehicles (EVs) and storing energy. They’re headquartered in Ningde, Fujian, and have a pretty big global footprint with research centers and production sites scattered around.
CATL isn’t just making one type of battery; they’ve got solutions for all sorts of things. We’re talking about batteries for regular cars, but also for bigger commercial vehicles, and even for large-scale energy storage systems. They’re also looking into battery recycling, which is pretty important these days.
What’s interesting is how they approach things. They’ve got these smaller, lighter cells that are designed for hybrid EVs. These cells pack a punch, offering quick bursts of power and a long lifespan, all while helping save on fuel. They also make batteries for things like delivery trucks and even some specialized vehicles.
CATL has been pushing boundaries, too. They rolled out their "Qilin" batteries a couple of years back, and they’ve also been experimenting with battery swapping services for EVs. It seems like they’re always trying to figure out the next big thing.
Here’s a quick look at what they’re known for:
- Dominant market share in EV batteries.
- Supplying major car brands like BMW, Tesla, and Honda.
- Developing advanced battery chemistries for various applications.
- Investing in R&D and expanding production capacity globally.
2. BYD Co., Ltd.
BYD, which stands for "Build Your Dreams," is a massive Chinese company that’s way more than just a battery maker. They’ve got their hands in a lot of pies, from cars and electronics to even trains. It’s pretty wild how they started out making batteries for phones and now they’re a huge player in the electric vehicle (EV) world.
What really sets BYD apart is how they control pretty much everything that goes into their batteries. They own parts of the supply chain all the way from getting the raw materials to putting the final battery pack together. This "vertical integration," as they call it, helps them keep costs down and makes sure they always have what they need.
They’re famous for their "Blade Battery." The big deal with this one is safety. They actually managed to pass a tough test where they poked it with a nail, which is a big deal for EV batteries. Plus, they managed to pack more battery power into the same space, which is always a win for electric cars. They also make these cobalt-free lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries that work well in all sorts of weather, which is handy for a global market.
BYD has been making some serious waves, especially in Europe. Their battery use there has shot up like crazy in the last year. It seems like they’re not just a big name in China anymore; they’re really making their mark worldwide.
3. LG Energy Solution
LG Energy Solution, or LGES as it’s often called, is a big player in the battery world, spun off from LG Chem back in 2020. They’ve got a pretty wide range of products, from the batteries that power electric cars to those used in energy storage systems for power grids and even for your home.
LGES is a major supplier for some of the biggest names in the EV game, including Tesla, Chevrolet, Kia, and Volkswagen. While Tesla’s sales dip can affect them, they’ve seen strong performance from other models like the Kia EV 3 and various Chevrolet EVs.
Here’s a quick look at their main battery types:
- Advanced Automotive Batteries: These are the cells, modules, and packs designed specifically for electric vehicles (EVs).
- Mobility & IT Batteries: Think high-capacity, slim batteries for your laptops, phones, and even smaller electric vehicles.
- ESS Batteries: These are for Energy Storage Systems, used for everything from stabilizing power grids to providing backup power for businesses and homes.
They’re also making moves to secure materials and expand production, like their joint venture with Honda to build a lithium-ion battery plant. It seems like they’re really focused on keeping up with the demand for cleaner energy solutions.
4. Panasonic Energy
Panasonic Energy, a name that’s been around for ages, really got its start way back in 1918. It’s part of the huge Panasonic Corporation, which does everything from home appliances to car parts. When it comes to batteries, especially for electric cars, Panasonic has been a major player for over 40 years. They’re known for their lithium-ion tech, which aims to give you more miles on a single charge without costing an arm and a leg.
They’ve got a pretty wide range of batteries, not just for cars. Think about:
- Primary batteries (the kind you can’t recharge)
- Lithium batteries
- Rechargeable batteries, including lithium-ion and nickel-metal hydride types
- Specialty batteries like coin-cell rechargeables.
Panasonic Energy of North America is a big deal in making lithium-ion cells, and they’re pushing for batteries that are safe, high-quality, and affordable. They’ve had to adjust their game recently, though, especially with new rules about tariffs on batteries and materials coming from China. This means they’re working harder to get materials from closer to home and find new sources to keep things stable. Their main customer for EV batteries has been Tesla, and they’re focused on making sure their supply chain can handle the changing landscape.
5. Samsung SDI Co.
Samsung SDI, a South Korean powerhouse, has been a significant player in the battery world for a long time. They’ve been around since 1970, and they’ve really made a name for themselves, especially in smaller battery types. You know, the kind that power your phone, laptop, or even those fancy e-bikes and scooters. They were actually the first company to come out with a flexible battery, which is pretty wild when you think about it.
They’ve got a solid grip on the small battery market, and they’re not just resting on their laurels. Samsung SDI is constantly working on making their batteries better – think longer life, more power, and just generally safer. They offer their lithium-ion cells in a few different shapes, like cylindrical, prismatic, and polymer, so they can fit into all sorts of gadgets.
While they’re known for the smaller stuff, they’re also pushing forward in the electric vehicle (EV) and energy storage sectors. It’s a competitive space, for sure, but Samsung SDI seems to have a good strategy for staying ahead by focusing on improving their technology and materials. They’re definitely a company to watch as battery tech keeps evolving.
6. SK Innovation
SK Innovation, a big name in South Korea’s energy sector for about 50 years, is really pushing forward with battery tech. They’ve got a subsidiary called SK On, which is where all the battery action happens. SK On is all about making those high-nickel pouch cells and LFP cells, which are pretty important for electric vehicles (EVs) and energy storage systems (ESS).
What’s cool about SK On is their focus on innovation. They were one of the first to use high-energy-density ternary materials in mass-produced EV batteries. Plus, they’ve been working with major car companies like Hyundai, BAIC, and Daimler for a while now. They even have a joint venture with Ford called "BlueOval SK" to build battery cells and packs right here in the U.S.
SK Innovation has been in the battery game since 1996, so they’ve had plenty of time to figure things out. Their battery tech is known for being heat-resistant, stable, and lasting a long time. This makes them suitable for all sorts of eco-friendly and long-distance vehicles, as well as smart grids and uninterruptible power supplies (UPS).
Here’s a quick look at what they’re up to:
- Focus on High-Nickel and LFP Cells: These are key for modern EVs and energy storage.
- Global Partnerships: Working with big automakers worldwide.
- Innovation in Materials: Pioneering the use of advanced ternary materials.
- Long History: Decades of experience in the energy industry.
SK Innovation’s commitment to developing advanced battery technologies is a major reason they’re a significant player in the global market. They’re definitely a company to watch as the world moves more towards electrification.
7. CALB Group Co., Ltd.
CALB, which stands for China Aviation Lithium Battery, is another big player making waves in the battery world. Founded back in 2009, they’ve really focused on lithium-ion batteries, and you’ll find their tech in a bunch of different places.
They’re not just about electric cars, though that’s a huge part of their business. CALB also makes batteries for energy storage systems, which are super important for keeping the power grid stable and for renewable energy projects. Think about those massive battery farms that store solar or wind power – CALB is involved there.
Here’s a quick look at where their batteries show up:
- Electric Vehicles: They supply batteries for both passenger cars and commercial vehicles. You might see their batteries in buses from companies like YUTONG or in logistics vehicles.
- Energy Storage: CALB has been part of some pretty significant energy storage projects. One notable one is the State Grid Kunshan Energy Storage Power Station, which was actually the world’s largest single-station lithium battery energy storage project on the grid side when it was built.
- Special Applications: They also have batteries for mining equipment and other specialized uses.
CALB is expanding its global footprint, with plans for new factories in Europe. This move shows they’re serious about competing on an international level and meeting the growing demand for batteries outside of China.
8. Exide Industries Ltd.
Exide Industries Ltd. is a big name in the battery world, especially if you’re looking at India. They’re known as India’s largest maker of automotive and industrial lead-acid batteries. It’s not just an Indian company, though; they have factories spread across India and subsidiaries in places like Singapore, Sri Lanka, and the UK. Plus, they ship their products to 45 countries on six different continents. That’s quite the reach!
What do they actually make? A whole lot of different batteries. They’ve got batteries for cars, trucks, and even those three- and two-wheelers you see everywhere. They also make batteries for inverters, which are super important for keeping the lights on during power outages, and for home UPS systems. If you’re into solar power, they have solutions for that too, including solar inverters and batteries.
Beyond just the everyday stuff, Exide also produces batteries for some pretty serious applications. Think defense, mining, power grids, and telecom infrastructure. They even have specialized batteries for gensets and submarines. And for the growing electric vehicle market, they’ve got the Exide E-Ride batteries and the Exide NEO for e-rickshaws. It’s clear Exide is covering a wide spectrum of battery needs, from personal vehicles to critical industrial uses.
Here’s a quick look at some of their product categories:
- Automotive Batteries: For cars, bikes, and commercial vehicles.
- Inverter & Home UPS Batteries: Keeping homes and businesses powered.
- Industrial Batteries: For sectors like power, telecom, and defense.
- Solar Solutions: Batteries and systems for renewable energy.
- Electric Vehicle Batteries: Including specialized batteries for e-rickshaws.
9. GS Yuasa Corporation
GS Yuasa Corporation is a big name in the battery world, and it’s got a history stretching way back. The GS part of the name comes from a company that made Japan’s first lead-acid storage battery way back in 1895. Then there’s Yuasa, which started looking into metal electrolysis in 1913. These two joined forces in 2004 to create the GS Yuasa we know today. They’re definitely one of the major battery makers globally.
What do they make? A whole lot of different batteries for all sorts of things. Think about cars, motorcycles, and even planes. They also make batteries for heavy industry, electric trains, and even for things like jet skis and snowmobiles. Plus, they’re involved in standby power systems and telecommunications, which need reliable power.
Their product list is pretty extensive:
- Automotive and Motorcycle Batteries: These include both lead-acid and lithium-ion types for regular cars, hybrids, and electric vehicles. They also have a big focus on powersports batteries for things like ATVs and UTVs.
- Traction Batteries and Chargers: These are for electric vehicles used in industrial settings, like forklifts.
- Industrial Batteries and Power Supply Systems: This covers a range of industrial batteries, including stationary ones, and power systems for things like railways.
- Lithium-ion Batteries: They make these for specialized uses like satellites, aircraft, and deep-sea vessels.
GS Yuasa has been installing lithium-ion batteries in hybrid electric vehicles for a while now, with cumulative installations reaching 3.6 million units as of March 2025. It’s clear they’re not just sticking to the old ways; they’re pushing forward with new tech too.
10. Clarios
Clarios, you might know them better as the folks formerly called Johnson Controls, are pretty big players in the energy storage game. They’ve been around the block, really, with over 130 years of experience, especially when it comes to lead-acid batteries. They were actually the first ones to bring those Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) batteries to the car market way back in 2001. These AGM batteries are known for being tough and reliable, even when things get demanding.
They also make standard flooded batteries for regular gas cars and enhanced flooded ones for those start-stop vehicles that are becoming more common. But they’re not just sticking to the old ways; Clarios is also in the lithium-ion battery space, and they’ve got low-voltage options, like 12-volt and 48-volt batteries, that use special LTO chemistry. These are for really tough jobs where you need power and longevity. Plus, they have these xEV advanced 12V batteries specifically for electric and hybrid cars to keep them running smoothly.
Clarios has a pretty wide reach, with 6 R&D facilities and over 50 locations worldwide. They’ve grown by picking up other brands along the way, so their product lineup is quite extensive. They’re involved in everything from car batteries to solutions for rail transport and renewable energy storage. It seems like they’re covering a lot of ground in keeping things powered up.
Wrapping It Up
So, looking at everything, it’s pretty clear that batteries are a huge deal right now, and they’re only going to get bigger. From powering our cars to keeping the lights on when the sun isn’t shining, these companies are basically building the future. While China’s CATL and BYD are really leading the pack, especially with EVs, other players like LG, Panasonic, and Samsung SDI are still in the game, pushing new ideas. It’s going to be interesting to see how things shake out, especially with new battery tech on the horizon. One thing’s for sure, though: the demand for better, more powerful batteries isn’t slowing down anytime soon.
