LiFePO4 vs. Lead-Acid: Which Is Better for Electric Commercial Vehicles?

Automation is no longer a competitive advantage but a necessity for a competitive business. However, implementing innovations requires a thoughtful approach, particularly when selecting technologies that deliver long-term economic benefits. Let’s look at several types of batteries built with different chemistries and compare how this affects their performance:

Comparison of these battery types: Lead-acid (AGM), Li-ion, and LiFePO4

1. Lead-acid (AGM) batteries
   Advantages:
   – Low cost
   Disadvantages:
   – Loss of up to 50% of capacity after just one year
   – Only ~300 charge cycles
   – Rapid wear and tear
2. Li-ion batteries
   Advantages:
   – Lightweight
   – High energy density
   Disadvantages:
   – Sensitive to overheating
   – Require a cooling system
   – Average lifespan
3. LiFePO4 batteries
   Advantages:
   – Over 2,000 charge cycles
   – Only 5–10% capacity loss per year
   – Up to 75% capacity after 5 years
   – 62% more energy at the same capacity
   Disadvantages:
   – Higher initial cost

As we can see, the advantages of cheap AGM batteries end there. Li-ion, on the other hand, is a middle ground—a compromise between capacity, price, size, and safety (certain safety rules must be followed). And among this list, LiFePO4 is clearly the leader in terms of durability, stability, and energy efficiency, performing best in almost every aspect except price. The price justifies the quality and safety. But what about the price and costs if you constantly use different types of batteries, on whose maintenance you can save money?

Costs of replacing or maintaining AGM and LiFePO4 batteries over 5 years

Cost comparison: lead-acid vs. LiFePO4 Initial cost (4×32Ah):
– Lead-acid: 13,000 UAH
– LiFePO4: 28,500 UAH Number of replacements over 5 years:
– Lead-acid: 4 or more
– LiFePO4: 0 Total costs:
– Lead-acid: 52,000 UAH
– LiFePO4: 28,500 UAH

Savings on LiFePO4: 23,500 UAH

Due to the significant difference in price and quality, at first glance it may seem that AMG batteries are better because they are cheaper—but that’s not the case. When factoring in maintenance costs, the more expensive batteries are more cost-effective. Even after several years of use, they still retain both power and capacity and do not require replacement, whereas AMG batteries may need to be replaced for several years in a row.

Examples of use and comparison of performance and economy of Antdrive electric forklifts

Antdrive W9 electric forklift (motor power 800 Wh):

• • • With a 20 Ah lead-acid battery:
      – Operating time (under load): 0.96 hours
      – Operating time (idling): 3.8 hours
      – Cost: 13,000 UAH
      – Number of replacements over 5 years: ≥4
      – Total cost: 52,000 UAH
    • With LiFePO4 50Ah:
      – Operating time (under load): 3.5 hours (+264%)
      – Operating time (idling): 14 hours (+268%)
      – Cost: 28,500 UAH
      – Number of replacements over 5 years: 0
      – Total cost: 28,500 UAH

Antdrive W9 Max electric cart (motor power 1,500 Wh)

• • • With a 32 Ah lead-acid battery:
      – Operating time (under load): 0.82 hours
      – Operating time (idling): 6.1 hours
      – Cost: 13,000 UAH
      – Number of replacements over 5 years: 4–5
      – Total cost: 52,000–65,000 UAH
    • With LiFePO4 50Ah:
      – Runtime (load): 1.87 hours (+128%)
      – Runtime (idle): 14 hours (+129%)
      – Cost: 28,500 UAH
      – Number of replacements over 5 years: 0
      – Total cost: 28,500 UAH

Conclusion

Choosing a battery is a strategic decision. While LiFePO4 batteries are more expensive upfront, they significantly outperform alternatives in terms of durability, energy efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. By investing in cutting-edge solutions today, you ensure your business will enjoy consistent performance for years to come.