Clarios Expands hAGM Adoption Across New Vehicle Programs and the Premium Aftermarket

Leading global automakers have selected Clarios’ hAGM technology for future vehicle programs, while the launch of OPTIMA REDTOP with hAGM+ technology extends the platform into the premium aftermarket.

GLENDALE, Wis., Oct. 29, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Clarios, a global leader in advanced low-voltage battery technologies, is expanding the reach of its hAGM technology platform across future original-equipment programs and the aftermarket as modern vehicles place greater demands on low-voltage energy systems.

Vehicles across powertrain types are becoming increasingly connected, software-enabled and electrically intensive. The growing number of electronic control units, safety and connectivity features, and energy-management functions is increasing the importance of the 12-volt battery to vehicle reliability and performance, including its role in helping reduce battery-related warranty risks. Modern vehicles also rely on the 12-volt battery to support electronic systems and important vehicle functions when the vehicle is not actively driving.

Clarios developed hAGM as the next evolution of Absorbent Glass Mat battery technology to address these changing requirements. Built on a proven AGM foundation, hAGM is designed to support improved dynamic charge acceptance and reliable operation under demanding conditions, including higher electrical loads, repeated cycling, extended parking periods and growing dependence on electronic systems. These capabilities support faster energy recovery during short charging periods, improved cycling performance and vehicle efficiency under real-world operating conditions.

Driven by hAGM’s compelling value proposition, multiple leading global automakers have selected Clarios’ hAGM technology for high-volume future vehicle programs. Production for previously announced programs is scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of calendar year 2026. Clarios has also been selected to supply hAGM technology for future vehicle programs by an additional global automaker, further expanding the technology’s OEM pipeline.

“The role of the 12-volt battery is changing as vehicle architectures become increasingly sophisticated,” said Federico Morales-Zimmermann, vice president and general manager of global OEM customers and technology at Clarios. “The selection of hAGM for future vehicle programs demonstrates that automakers are preparing for higher electrical demands with technology designed to support improved dynamic charge acceptance, enhanced cycling performance and reliable operation under real-world conditions.”

At the same time, the recently introduced OPTIMA REDTOP with hAGM+ technology builds on the Clarios hAGM technology foundation through a product developed for premium aftermarket applications. The product is designed to support demanding operating conditions, including higher electrical loads, frequent cycling, extensive accessory usage and modern electrical-system requirements.

“The technology trends shaping future vehicles will also shape the replacement market,” said Marc Andraca, president of U.S. and Canada Region at Clarios. “OPTIMA REDTOP with hAGM+ technology helps aftermarket partners and vehicle owners prepare for the more demanding battery requirements that increasingly sophisticated vehicles will bring.”

Together, the expansion of the future OEM program pipeline and the introduction of the new OPTIMA REDTOP demonstrate how Clarios is applying an advanced low-voltage technology foundation across solutions developed for vehicle manufacturers and the aftermarket.

Clarios and OPTIMA will highlight the hAGM technology platform during AAPEX and SEMA in Las Vegas, offering customers and other industry stakeholders an opportunity to learn more about changing low-voltage energy requirements and the connection between future vehicle technology and replacement-market demand.

 

About Clarios

Clarios is the global leader in advanced, low-voltage battery technologies for mobility. Our batteries and smart solutions power nearly every type of vehicle and are found in one of three cars on the road today. With around 18,000 employees in over 100 countries, we bring deep expertise to our Aftermarket and OEM partners, and reliability, safety and comfort to everyday lives. We answer to the planet with a rigorous sustainability focus—advancing best-in-class sustainability practices and advocating for them across our industry. We work to ensure 100% of our products sold are recyclable, and we recycle 8,000 batteries an hour in our network. Clarios is a Brookfield portfolio company.

Contact Info

Christian Riedel
christian.m.riedel@clarios.com
+49 173 99975410

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• Clarios hAGM and OPTIMA REDTOP with hAGM+ technology