UK Batteries has given its customers the chance to offer AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) batteries – a technology that is commonly used in ‘stop-start micro hybrid’ vehicles – to the aftermarket by launching a range of AGM applications across all of its market-leading brands.
 
Stop-start technology was developed to meet consumer demand for fuel efficiency and tough new emissions standards. The technology switches the vehicle engine off whenever it stops moving and then restarts again when the driver pushes the accelerator pedal. Start-stop technology claims to reduce fuel consumption by 15% and AGM batteries accept charge from regenerative braking.
 
The need to supply AGM batteries to the aftermarket is growing as OE AGM batteries begin to need replacing. UK Batteries has therefore taken steps to make sure its customers can take advantage of this growing number of opportunities.
 
“The popular misconception is that only the battery manufacturers are able to offer AGM technology because it’s so new but that’s not the case,” explained UK Batteries Marketing Manager, Mark Higson. “We have the technology across all of our Platinum, Oldham, Crompton, Tungstone and M-Tec brands and all batteries carry a four-year guarantee.”
 
The true availability of AGM products in the aftermarket has been subject of debate recently. Some suppliers claim they have the battery technology readily available, but many distributors have been let down by unreasonably long lead times from their supplier.
 
Higson added: “A lot of suppliers out there are making promises about AGM but they cannot deliver them. We have plenty of AGM batteries in our warehouses now and they are available for next day delivery under normal circumstances.”
 
As well as a comprehensive range of AGM batteries, UK Batteries has been working