The Exide Excell battery series is designed for drivers who need reliable performance, solid starting power, and a long lifespan, all at an affordable price. Positioned between Exide’s entry-level Classic line and the more powerful Premium series, Excell batteries offer a balanced solution for everyday motoring needs. They are ideal for standard vehicles without Start-Stop systems and are built using durable lead-acid technology. The Excell range is also known for its dependable cold cranking performance and resistance to deep discharge, which makes them suitable for vehicles with moderate electrical demands, such as city cars or compact hatchbacks.
One of the popular models in this series is the Exide EB442. It is a 12V lead-acid battery with a capacity of 44 Ah and a cold cranking amperage of 420 A, which makes it a practical choice for small to mid-sized petrol vehicles. Its dimensions – 207 mm in length, 175 mm in width, and 175 mm in height – place it firmly within the LB1 (H4) battery size standard. This size is widely used in European cars and ensures that the EB442 can fit into most battery trays designed for compact models. What sets the EB442 apart is its reduced height of 175 mm, compared to the standard 190 mm in many other batteries. This feature makes it particularly useful for vehicles with limited vertical space under the hood, such as certain models of Fiat, Peugeot, Citroën, or even some older Volkswagens.
The EB442 is equipped with terminal layout type 0 (positive on the right) and standard terminal type 1 posts. It fits into the B13 mounting bracket category, which is commonly found in many European vehicles. This ensures that installation is simple and secure without the need for modifications. However, it’s worth noting that this battery is not suitable for vehicles with Start-Stop systems, as those require enhanced technologies like EFB or AGM.
When compared to similar models from other manufacturers, the EB442 sits comfortably in the mid-range. For example, Bosch’s S40 01 offers the same 44 Ah capacity but slightly higher starting power at 440 A. Exide’s own Premium EA472 also has 47 Ah and 450 A, giving it a bit more reserve and cold-start performance, but at a slightly higher price point. For those needing just a bit more punch, the Bosch S50 01 and Varta C6 offer 52 Ah and 520 A, ideal for colder climates or cars with more electrical accessories. On the other end, budget-friendly options like the Bosch S30 01 or Halfords Essentials HB 063 deliver only 360 A, which might be less ideal in demanding starting conditions.
One of the strengths of the EB442 is that it provides a good balance between price and performance. It offers better starting current than most 41 Ah models and retains the compact size that fits perfectly into smaller vehicles. For drivers looking for a battery that delivers consistent performance, is easy to install, and comes from a reputable European manufacturer, the Exide EB442 is a smart and dependable choice.