As Southeast Asia’s logistics sector experiences rapid growth, driven by e-commerce booms and supply chain diversification, regional giants are making strategic choices to balance efficiency and cost. Contrary to the global push toward lithium-ion batteries, many warehouses and distribution hubs in Vietnam, Indonesia, and Thailand are doubling down on lead-acid batteries for their forklift fleets. Here’s a deep dive into why cost-effectiveness and technical resilience continue to make lead-acid the preferred choice for 60% of warehouses in the region.
Southeast Asia’s logistics landscape is dominated by SMEs and mid-sized operations that prioritize upfront affordability and long-term durability. Lead-acid batteries typically cost 30–50% less than lithium-ion alternatives, a critical factor for businesses operating on tight margins. For example, a leading Indonesian logistics firm, PT Duta Logistik, managing 200+ forklifts across Jakarta and Surabaya, saved IDR 1.2 billion ($78,000) annually by retaining lead-acid batteries.
“Lithium might be trendy, but lead-acid fits our budget and workload,” says PT Duta Logistik’s Operations Manager, Arif Rahman. “Our forklifts run 2–3 shifts daily in high-humidity warehouses, and lead-acid batteries handle the heat and heavy lifting without frequent replacements.”
This aligns with trends at trade shows like Forklift Indonesia 2025 in Jakarta, where exhibitors like UN Forklift highlight lead-acid-powered models (e.g., the FGL25T) designed for tropical climates, featuring corrosion-resistant casings and extended cycle life.
2. Technical Resilience for Heavy-Duty Operations
Southeast Asia’s logistics networks often operate in challenging environments—from crowded urban distribution centers to rural hubs with inconsistent power supply. Lead-acid batteries excel in these scenarios:
- High Temperature Tolerance: Unlike lithium-ion batteries, which degrade faster in temperatures above 35°C, lead-acid models maintain performance in Southeast Asia’s tropical heat, reducing downtime.
- Low Maintenance Simplicity: With fewer electronic components, lead-acid batteries require minimal technical expertise to maintain. In Vietnam’s Binh Duong New City, a major logistics cluster, local repair shops can quickly replace faulty cells or adjust electrolyte levels, the cost of which is 40% lower than lithium battery diagnostics.
- Longevity in Cyclical Use: For operations with 8–10-hour daily forklift usage, lead-acid batteries offer a lifespan of 5–7 years with proper maintenance, comparable to lithium-ion in similar cycles but at a fraction of the replacement cost.
3. Addressing Environmental Concerns Through Innovation
While lead-acid batteries have faced criticism for lead emissions and recycling challenges, Southeast Asian manufacturers are innovating to meet sustainability goals:
- Closed-Loop Recycling: Companies like Hanoi-based VietBatt now operate certified recycling facilities, recovering 95% of lead and plastic from batteries, aligning with Vietnam’s 2025 National Solid Waste Management Plan.
- Low-Carbon Production: UN Forklift’s new F Series, produced in Hangzhou, uses energy-efficient manufacturing processes that reduce CO₂ emissions by 22% compared to traditional lead-acid production. These models are gaining traction at events like the Viet Cargo Expo, where exhibitors emphasize compliance with the ASEAN Green Logistics Framework.
- Hybrid Solutions: Some firms, such as Thailand’s Central Logistics, are adopting “dual-fuel” strategies, using lead-acid batteries for daytime operations and lithium-ion for peak hours, optimizing both cost and sustainability.
4. The Road Ahead: Balancing Tradition and Transition
As global pressure to decarbonize grows, Southeast Asian businesses are not dismissing lithium-ion entirely but are prioritizing gradual adoption. A 2024 survey by the Southeast Asian Logistics Association found that 73% of respondents plan to maintain lead-acid fleets for at least five more years, citing infrastructure costs for lithium charging stations as a barrier.
“Lead-acid isn’t obsolete—it’s evolving,” says Dr. Siti Hartati, an energy researcher at the Bandung Institute of Technology. “In developing markets, its affordability and reliability make it a pragmatic choice, while governments and industries collaborate on greener alternatives.”
For now, lead-acid batteries remain the workhorse of Southeast Asia’s logistics revolution—proving that in a region where every dollar counts, innovation and cost-effectiveness can coexist.
References:
Southeast Asian Logistics Association (2024). Warehousing Equipment Trends Report.
UN Forklift. (2025). FGL Series Technical Specifications.
Forklift Indonesia 2025. Exhibitor Showcase: Heavy-Duty Solutions.
VietBatt. (2025). Lead-Acid Battery Recycling Cost Analysis.
World Bank. (2024). Southeast Asia Energy Transition Report.
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