Introduction to Traction Batteries
Traction batteries are deep-cycle batteries designed to provide sustained power for electric vehicles and industrial equipment such as:
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Forklifts
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Pallet jacks
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AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles)
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Golf carts
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Electric buses/trucks
They are optimized for long discharge cycles, high capacity, and frequent charging. Unlike starter batteries (which provide short bursts of high power), traction batteries deliver steady energy output over extended periods.
Common Types of Traction Batteries
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Lead-Acid Batteries (Flooded, AGM, Gel)
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Widely used in forklifts and industrial vehicles
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Cost-effective, reliable
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Requires regular maintenance (especially flooded types)
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Lithium-Ion Batteries (LiFePO₄, NMC)
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Lightweight, fast charging, zero maintenance
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Increasingly popular in modern electric fleets
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Higher upfront cost, but longer lifespan
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Battery Plugs Used for Traction Batteries
Battery plugs for traction batteries must be:
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Durable for frequent connections
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High-current capable (typically 50–350+ amps)
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Color and key-coded to prevent mismatches
Here are the most commonly used connectors:
SMH SY Series (SY50, SY175, SY350)
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Most widely used in forklifts and pallet jacks
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Genderless design, color-coded by voltage
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Commonly seen in 24V, 36V, 48V applications
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SY175 is the most typical for mid-sized forklifts
SMH SBS Series (e.g., SBS75X)
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Has auxiliary contacts for temperature sensing or data signals
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Used in more sophisticated charging systems
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Touch-safe (UL-rated), compact, and safe for industrial use
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