Wait Before Replacing Your Electric Vehicle Battery: Significant Price Drops in Lithium Batteries and Potential Decline in Lead-Acid Prices

Thinking of replacing your electric vehicle battery? You might want to hold off for a little while! The price of lithium batteries has significantly dropped, and lead-acid batteries may soon follow suit.

On May 17, 2025, BYD launched lithium batteries for two-wheeled and three-wheeled electric vehicles. Given BYD’s background in battery manufacturing, this release isn’t surprising, but it could lead to major changes in the battery market for these vehicles. Currently, the price of Xingheng lithium batteries has seen a substantial decrease, which might trigger a price drop in lead-acid batteries as well. Let’s take a closer look.

Introducing the Blade Battery for Two-Wheelers

In the realm of new energy, BYD’s blade battery technology is at the forefront. Its innovative honeycomb structure not only enhances the energy density of lithium batteries but also improves safety. During puncture tests, these batteries do not catch fire or explode, effectively addressing safety concerns associated with lithium batteries.

In addition to safety, BYD’s lithium batteries offer several notable advantages:

• High Energy Density: The energy density of lithium iron phosphate batteries is 180Wh/KG.
• Long Lifespan: The lithium iron phosphate cells can withstand over 3000 charge-discharge cycles, with a warranty of 5 years and a potential lifespan of 10 years.
• Fast Charging Capability: When used with BYD’s dedicated charging stations, they support 4C fast charging.
• Good Low-Temperature Performance: Tests show that these batteries retain over 85% capacity at -20°C, while lead-acid batteries only manage about 50%.
• Advanced Battery Management System (BMS): Equipped with a new automotive-grade chip, it ensures battery safety, real-time monitoring, voltage balancing, and thermal management, along with multiple communication capabilities.

Xingheng Lithium Batteries Significantly Reduced in Price

Starting on May 17, BYD’s two-wheeler batteries became available for purchase, with various models including 48V, 60V, and 72V now listed on platforms. The pricing has been clearly established. According to official information, the price for BYD’s 48V 24Ah lithium battery is set at 1219 yuan, which includes a charger. Although this may be slightly higher than some other brands, it remains competitive. For instance, a similar battery model by Chaowei is currently priced at 1168 yuan, suitable for use in multiple two-wheeler and three-wheeler models.

However, top-tier lithium battery brand Xingheng has adjusted its pricing significantly. Previously, their prices were comparable to Chaowei’s, but now the cost for a 48V 24Ah lithium battery has dropped to only 791 yuan. This represents a reduction of 379 yuan compared to Chaowei’s battery and 428 yuan compared to BYD’s, making it even less expensive than a set of lead-acid batteries.

Potential Price Drop for Lead-Acid Batteries

Historically, lead-acid batteries have been known for their affordability, often preferred due to their lower price compared to lithium batteries. However, the recent launch of BYD’s lithium batteries has led to significant price reductions in lithium batteries like those from Xingheng, and this trend may extend to lead-acid batteries as well. Currently, the trade-in price for a standard 48V 20Ah lead-acid battery from Chaowei is 278 yuan, while a brand new battery costs 579 yuan. The price for a new Chaowei 48V 24Ah Zhenheijin battery is 719 yuan, with a trade-in price of 469 yuan. This high-end graphene battery is now priced similarly to Xingheng’s S7 lithium battery, with less than a hundred yuan difference, eliminating any price advantage.

As BYD’s blade battery enters the market, it is likely to impact lithium battery prices significantly, prompting major brands to adjust their lead-acid battery prices downwards. While high-end lead-acid battery prices may see substantial decreases, the prices of lower-end batteries are also expected to drop by around one hundred yuan.

Conclusion

The launch of BYD’s two-wheeler lithium batteries has certainly created a stir in the electric vehicle market. With Xingheng lithium batteries already experiencing price cuts, and lead-acid batteries likely to follow suit, it’s a pivotal moment for consumers considering battery replacements.

What type of battery do you think is the best choice? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!