SMM

SMM June 17: Dealers in Zhejiang reported that end-use consumption in the e-bike lead-acid battery market remained weak, with slow inventory turnover. Recently, restocking of batteries has been limited to just-in-time procurement, keeping inventory levels within half a month. Additionally, the wholesale price for the main model, 48V20Ah, was 400-410 yuan per unit. Manufacturers in Jiangxi indicated that replacement demand in the e-bike lead-acid battery market was sluggish, with dealers making just-in-time procurement only. Furthermore, in recent years, the decline in lithium material prices has created a significant cost gap compared to lead materials, leading to an increased proportion of lithium batteries in e-bike batteries, resulting in poor new battery orders. Currently, factory operating rates are maintained at 70-80%. Manufacturers in Anhui reported that the off-season trend in the e-bike lead-acid battery market persisted, with a reduction in vehicle assembly orders. Factory production line operating rates were also around 80%. Additionally, lead prices fluctuated at highs, and recent procurement was primarily based on long-term contracts.