- Battery Type: Batteries must be lead-acid type. Only batteries designed to contain their electrolyte if punctured, such as gel-cell or AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) batteries, are permitted in practice or competition.
- Number and Voltage: The number and voltage of batteries are not limited, provided the batteries meet the applicable weight requirements and are of an approved type.
- Manufacturer Labels: Batteries must retain all original manufacturer labels and markings.
- Commercial Availability: Batteries must be commercially manufactured, retailed, and available for purchase by any competitor. Custom-built or specialized batteries are not permitted.
- Condition: Batteries must be stock, unmodified, and operated in accordance with all conditions of the manufacturer’s written warranty.
- Total Battery Weight: Total battery weight must not exceed 73 pounds. This includes batteries used for controls, actuation, or any other function of the vehicle. Batteries used exclusively to power computers, radios, or similar equipment are excluded.
- Charging: Batteries may not be exchanged or recharged from an external power source during a competition. Batteries may be recharged through regenerative braking or, in the Solar Class, by solar panels.
- Secure Mounting: Batteries must be securely attached to the vehicle and mounted in a manner that prevents them from becoming dislodged during an impact or rollover.
The following batteries are approved as standard batteries:
- Optima YellowTop D35 — up to 2 batteries
- Optima YellowTop D75/25 — up to 2 batteries
- Optima RedTop SC25A — up to 2 batteries
- Optima RedTop SC35A — up to 2 batteries
- Optima RedTop SC75/35 — up to 2 batteries
- Interstate DCM0035 — up to 3 batteries
Minor variations in manufacturer-specified battery weight are permitted.
