While lithium-ion is the chemistry of choice for EV batteries, almost every ICE vehicle made today still uses the ancient lead-acid battery technology for its 12-Volt starter battery (Porsche and a couple of other makers of high-performance cars offer lithium-ion starter batteries).

Auto OEMs and battery providers want to preserve the leaded status quo. In fact, lead-acid starter batteries are “essential for the needs of future generations,” at least according to the International Lead Association (via Green Car Reports).

EU regulators are considering new rules that would ban the use of lead in vehicles, but the European automakers’ association ACEA, together with Japanese and Korean trade groups, has submitted a request to extend the existing exemption for lead-acid batteries for another eight years.

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In its submission, the group cited a study that found no viable alternatives to lead-acid batteries for starting vehicles in cold climates. The study also noted that 99 percent of lead-acid batteries in EU countries are recycled.            

Source: International Lead Association via Green Car Reports
Image: Marcy Leigh/Flickr