AGM Batteries and Fuel Economy

Truck Batteries and Fuel Economy

We talk about fuel economy a lot, but this is a topic that's currently a high priority for both truck owners and legislators alike. As more attention focuses on the trucking industry and the contribution of diesel emissions into the environment, the pressure is on to make big changes without sacrificing performance or power.

From a truck or fleet owner perspective, having to adapt quickly to diesel emissions regulations while also trying to save on costs can make you want to hit the panic button. But there's a way to focus on both, and it starts with your battery.

How Do AGM Batteries Save Fuel

Traditionally, trucks were designed to draw from the engine to keep electrical features powered while idling. The tightened restrictions on diesel emissions while idling has given rise to more advanced stop-start technology. Among these solutions are Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) batteries.

This year, 40 percent of all new vehicles in the U.S. and China are predicted to be powered with stop-start batteries. When stop-start technology shuts off the engine while idling, AGM batteries provide the deep cycling power that's needed to accommodate all electrical features, taking the burden off of the diesel-powered engine. As a result, stop-start vehicles with AGM batteries not only comply with diesel emission requirements but have also been shown to save up to 5 percent on fuel costs — a win-win for all truck and fleet owners.

Other Benefits of AGM Batteries

Every single part and component of a truck plays a role, but the battery literally gives your truck life and longevity. The benefits of AGM batteries versus flooded lead-acid batteries are plenty, but among the advantages are:

• The fiberglass matting completely encloses the electrolyte solution, leaving your battery less vulnerable to leaks and protecting essential electrical connections from corrosion.
• AGM batteries offer more extreme temperature tolerance from -40 degrees to 176 degrees Fahrenheit, depending on the presence of a metal jacket.
• The design of AGM batteries allows for much higher vibration resistance, protecting the battery against the high impact shock and mechanical vibration that are commonly associated with battery failure.

The Best AGM Battery for Heavy-Duty Vehicles

As the benefits of AGM batteries become more widely known in the industry, many varieties of this type of deep cycling battery have popped up in the aftermarket. But only AGM batteries from Odyssey have:

• Robust intercell connections to resist vibration and eliminate internal sparking
• Extremely thin 99 percent pure lead plates to improve power and significantly reduce unused battery space
• Tin alloy coated brass terminals to ensure a secure, corrosion-free cable connection
• Compressed AGM plate separators assist with vibration resistance and help prevent spills, even in cases of sideways installation

Available in both Performance and Extreme series options, Odyssey batteries are an ideal fuel economy solution for heavy-duty vehicles, fleet vehicles, power sports, and marine applications.

Where to Buy AGM Batteries

Our full haul of Odyssey battery solutions includes both the Performance and Extreme series options for all of your power and deep cycling needs. When considering whether it's the right time to outfit your truck or fleet with an Odyssey battery, it's also important to invest in the right battery charger and determine whether a hold-down jacket is necessary.

Shop online with us today to find the right AGM battery for your application, or create an account to get full access to our entire online catalog.

Key Points: AGM Batteries and Fuel Economy

• Saving on fuel costs and decreasing fuel emissions are both high priority goals for both fleet owners and the government. AGM batteries can do both.
• When stop-start technology shuts off the engine during idle, AGM batteries completely supply power to electrical features through deep cycling. This saves on fuel costs while also complying with diesel emissions standards.
• Additionally, AGM batteries offer multiple other benefits, including extreme temperature tolerance, high vibration resistance, and eliminated risk of leaks and corrosion.
• Odyssey AGM batteries offer some of the best design, performance, and warranty benefits in the aftermarket