What does BCI Group 24 mean? BCI Group 24 refers to a standardized battery size classification defined by the Battery Council International (BCI). It specifies physical dimensions (approximately 10.25″ x 6.8″ x 8.9″) and electrical characteristics for automotive/industrial batteries. Commonly used in mid-sized vehicles and marine applications, Group 24 batteries balance power output and space efficiency.
What Is a Group Size 24 Battery?
What Vehicles Use BCI Group 24 Batteries?
Group 24 batteries power mid-sized cars, trucks, SUVs, and marine vessels. Common applications include Honda Accord (2010-2018), Toyota Tacoma (2005-2015), and cabin cruisers up to 30 feet. Their 70-85 Ah capacity suits moderate electrical demands. Heavy-duty versions with higher CCA (600-800) are used in diesel trucks. Always consult manufacturer specifications for compatibility.
In marine environments, Group 24 batteries are frequently employed for dual-engine setups and onboard electronics. Pontoon boats and fishing vessels often utilize two Group 24 batteries – one for starting and another for powering fish finders, radios, and lighting systems. Recent advancements in battery technology have expanded their use in hybrid electric vehicles, particularly in auxiliary power units. For RV owners, these batteries provide sufficient capacity for lighting and small appliances during short camping trips. When selecting a Group 24 battery for specialty vehicles like golf carts or mobility scooters, verify the terminal configuration matches OEM requirements to prevent connection issues.
Top 5 best-selling Group 14 batteries under $100
| Product Name | Short Description | Amazon URL |
|---|---|---|
|
Weize YTX14 BS ATV Battery  |
Maintenance-free sealed AGM battery, compatible with various motorcycles and powersports vehicles. | View on Amazon |
|
UPLUS ATV Battery YTX14AH-BS  |
Sealed AGM battery designed for ATVs, UTVs, and motorcycles, offering reliable performance. | View on Amazon |
|
Weize YTX20L-BS High Performance  |
High-performance sealed AGM battery suitable for motorcycles and snowmobiles. | View on Amazon |
|
Mighty Max Battery ML-U1-CCAHR  |
Rechargeable SLA AGM battery with 320 CCA, ideal for various powersport applications. | View on Amazon |
|
Battanux 12N9-BS Motorcycle Battery  |
Sealed SLA/AGM battery for ATVs and motorcycles, maintenance-free with advanced technology. | View on Amazon |
How Does Group 24 Compare to Group 27/34 Batteries?
Group 24 (70-85Ah) offers less capacity than Group 27 (85-100Ah) but better fits compact spaces. Group 34 batteries provide higher cold-cranking amps (650-900 CCA) for colder climates. While Group 24 measures 10.25″ long, Group 34 is 10.75″ long – critical for tray compatibility. Marine applications often prefer Group 24’s balance between size and reserve capacity (120-150 minutes).
| Feature | Group 24 | Group 27 | Group 34 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity (Ah) | 70-85 | 85-100 | 75-90 |
| CCA Range | 600-800 | 700-900 | 650-900 |
| Typical Use | Mid-size vehicles | Large trucks | Performance cars |
The physical size differences directly impact installation flexibility. Group 24’s shorter length makes it preferable for engine compartments with limited lateral space, while Group 27’s additional height provides extra electrolyte volume for extended runtime. In cold climates, Group 34’s superior CCA ratings ensure reliable starts at temperatures below -20°F, though this comes with a 15% weight increase compared to Group 24 equivalents.
What Are the Environmental Impacts of Group 24 Batteries?
Lead-acid Group 24 batteries are 97% recyclable. Improper disposal risks lead contamination (EPA reports 2.6 million tons/year in landfills). Recycling recovers lead plates, sulfuric acid, and polypropylene cases. AGM batteries contain fiberglass mats requiring specialized processing. Always return used batteries to authorized recyclers – retailers often provide $10-20 core charge rebates for proper disposal.
Expert Views
“The Group 24 market is shifting toward dual-purpose designs,” notes John Masterson, battery engineer at PowerCell Industries. “Modern variants now deliver 800 CCA with 120Ah deep-cycle capacity – unthinkable a decade ago. We’re seeing lithium-ion Group 24 batteries with 13.2V nominal voltage and 90% weight reduction, though their $500-$800 price point still limits adoption.”
FAQ
- Can Group 24 batteries power trolling motors?
- Yes, when configured in 24V/36V series. Use deep-cycle Group 24 batteries with at least 100Ah capacity for sustained marine use.
- Is BCI Group 24 compatible with Group 35?
- No – Group 35 batteries are 9.06″ long vs Group 24’s 10.25″. Terminal positions also differ, requiring tray modifications.
- How to decode BCI date stamps?
- Letters A-L represent months (A=Jan), numbers 0-9 indicate years (8=2018/2028). For example: C9 = March 2019/2029.