The Exide Excell series is a widely recognized line of conventional lead-acid batteries, offering dependable performance for a broad range of everyday vehicles. Designed for drivers who prioritize reliability and durability, the Excell batteries provide a good balance between starting power and longevity. These batteries are especially suitable for standard internal combustion vehicles without start-stop systems. Exide has built its reputation on consistent innovation and solid engineering, and the Excell range reflects this by combining trusted lead-acid technology with robust construction and broad compatibility with European car models.
The Exide EB741 is a standout model within the Excell series, delivering 74Ah of capacity and a cold cranking amperage of 680A. This makes it an ideal choice for medium-sized petrol or diesel vehicles that demand reliable cold-start performance. The battery’s specifications ensure dependable engine starts in colder climates and under high-load situations, such as vehicles with extra electrical accessories.
In terms of physical dimensions, the EB741 measures 278 mm in length, 175 mm in width, and 190 mm in height, fitting neatly into the L3 size category, which is a standard battery size for many European vehicles. This ensures broad compatibility with popular car models, particularly mid-sized hatchbacks, sedans, and estate vehicles. The size also allows for easy drop-in replacement without any modification to the battery tray or cables.
One important feature to note is the terminal layout. The EB741 uses layout 1, meaning the positive terminal is located on the left side when facing the battery’s terminals. This configuration may be considered non-standard in newer European vehicles, which typically use layout 0 (positive on the right). Therefore, it’s essential to verify cable orientation and terminal positioning during installation to avoid issues with lead length or polarity.
The battery uses standard round post terminals (type 1), compatible with most European vehicles, and features the B13 hold-down system, which is the most common mounting style in Europe. B13 includes a mounting ledge around the battery base, offering secure fitment in vehicles equipped with traditional clamp-style brackets. This ensures the battery remains firmly in place during driving, even under rough road conditions.
While the EB741 is not suitable for start-stop systems—those require AGM or EFB technology—it remains a reliable option for conventional cars. Compared with similar batteries such as the Bosch S4 S40 09, Varta Blue Dynamic E12, or Lucas Premium LP086, the EB741 holds its own in terms of capacity and starting power. Each of these competitors shares the same size and similar technical specifications, making the choice among them a matter of brand preference, warranty coverage, or local availability.
Overall, the Exide EB741 is a solid, well-engineered battery for drivers seeking reliable cold-start performance and longevity without the complexity or higher cost of advanced battery technologies. Its standard European sizing, strong current delivery, and trusted brand backing make it a smart choice for a wide range of everyday vehicles.