H&V’s commitment to continuous innovation has grabbed the attention of Battery Council International, which recently awarded the company the 2026 BCI Innovation Award for technology that is significantly improving lead acid batteries.
Known as Glass Electrode Media, the new technology improves recharge efficiency through enhanced charge acceptance, reducing fuel-related emissions while improving battery performance, durability and cycle life reliability. GEM triples the charging speed, enabling next-generation start-stop systems that support fuel economy gains of up to 5%.
The technology can be used in automotive batteries, in motive power for forklifts, in stationary backup power solutions and other energy storage applications.
“As other great innovations in lead battery technology that have reshaped our world, GEM technology has true potential for creating a more sustainable future,” said Nicolas Clement, R&D Director at H&V. “We expect this technology will be a great tool for battery manufacturers for enhanced performance and enable lead batteries to compete better with alternative chemistries.”
H&V developed GEM in partnership with partner ArcActive.
Battery Council International annually presents its innovation award to celebrate innovation in equipment, processes, services and products that advance the lead battery industry. The award was established to honor industry thought leader Sally Breidegam Miksiewicz, the former CEO of East Penn Manufacturing Co.
“Battery innovation is thriving, and Hollingsworth & Vose is a great example of technological leadership and product evolution that advances the capabilities of the storied lead battery,” said Roger Miksad, President and Executive Director of BCI. “For roughly two centuries, H&V has supported the economy of the future. BCI is proud to celebrate this recent innovation, and we look forward to seeing what’s next.”
Learn more about H&V’s GEM technology on the H&V GEM page.