Who Makes Duralast Batteries In 2024? (Your Full Guide)
With over 500 million batteries produced annually, Duralast has grown into one of the top automotive battery brands in America. But who are the companies manufacturing these powerhouse batteries?
Duralast batteries are sold exclusively through AutoZone stores. However, AutoZone partners with leading battery producers to manufacture their Duralast lineup.
Understanding the capabilities of these key Duralast battery manufacturers can help you choose the right battery for your vehicle‘s needs.
The Major Duralast Battery Makers
While AutoZone distributes and sells all Duralast batteries, they are produced by three primary manufacturers:
Johnson Controls – The Duralast Battery Leader
Johnson Controls is the main producer of Duralast batteries, responsible for an estimated 60-70% of all Duralast battery manufacturing.
With over 135 years of battery expertise, Johnson Controls operates 48 manufacturing plants across six continents. They have the scale, technology, and experience to produce up to 288 million lead-acid batteries per year.
Many of the premium Duralast battery lines, including the top-tier Duralast Platinum series, are manufactured exclusively by Johnson Controls. Their cutting-edge Optima spiral-cell AGM batteries are found in high-performance Duralast offerings.
East Penn Manufacturing – Heavyweight Battery Maker
Privately held East Penn Manufacturing operates the largest single-site battery plant worldwide in Lyon Station, Pennsylvania. They have manufactured Duralast batteries for over 30 years.
East Penn is the sole producer for many Duralast AGM batteries, which feature absorbed glass mat technology for spill-proof durability. Their modern manufacturing processes allow them to churn out up to 18 million batteries annually.
Exide Technologies – High-Volume Duralast Battery Supplier
With operations dating back to 1888, Exide is an established high-volume battery maker producing more economical Duralast models. Their global network of manufacturing and recycling plants provides batteries for a range of AutoZone stores.
Exide specializes in cost-efficient lead-acid battery designs, allowing them to manufacture Duralast models catering to more budget-conscious shoppers. Their large production scales facilitate inventory availability for AutoZone locations.
Duralast Battery Types and Manufacturers
AutoZone offers several tiers of Duralast batteries optimized for different needs and manufactured by select producers:
| Battery Type | Key Features | Manufacturers |
|---|---|---|
| Duralast | Basic reliable car batteries | Mix of all manufacturers |
| Duralast Gold | Improved power & durability | Johnson Controls, East Penn |
| Duralast Platinum | Premium batteries with latest tech | Johnson Controls |
| Duralast AGM | Spill-proof/vibration resistant | East Penn |
Duralast Platinum: Cutting-Edge Performance
Made exclusively by battery leader Johnson Controls, the Duralast Platinum line represents the pinnacle of Duralast battery innovation and technology.
Duralast Platinum batteries feature:
- Innovative spiral cell AGM construction for maximum power delivery
- Longer 100+ month lifespan for extended usage
- Enhanced corrosion resistance for severe weather protection
- Patented pressurized PowerFrame grid technology for relentless performance
- 55% more starting power than conventional batteries
With a hefty price tag up to $379.99, Duralast Platinum batteries deliver no-compromise performance and lifespan for premium vehicles.
Duralast Gold: All-Weather Starting Power
Jointly produced by Johnson Controls and East Penn, Duralast Gold batteries provide boosted starting power and durability.
Key Duralast Gold features:
- Dual alloy negative plates to withstand extreme heat/cold
- Robust polypropylene case/cover resists impacts
- Up to 115 reserve capacity minutes for reliable starting
- High-density oxide paste prevents premature power loss
- Entirely sealed construction prevents dangerous leaks
Priced affordably from $149.99, Duralast Gold is perfect for drivers in harsh weather regions needing robust all-weather performance.
Conclusion: Duralast Battery Innovation Through Strategic Partnerships
The Duralast brand has earned its reputation for quality and dependable batteries through strategic manufacturing partnerships with industry leaders like Johnson Controls and East Penn.
Their cutting-edge technologies and massive production capabilities allow for consistent manufacturing excellence across the Duralast battery range. This empowers AutoZone to offer some of the best batteries available for a wide span of vehicle applications and budgets.
So next time your car battery dies, you can confidently trust that a replacement Duralast model will provide you with top-tier power thanks to the manufacturing prowess of companies like Johnson Controls and East Penn.
