A novel 'intelligent' battery has been developed for automotive applications. The product - known as the Powerbeat battery - consists of a dual, 12-V lead/acid arrangement: six cells are used to supply cranking current and six to supply auxiliary current. An innovative control device allows reliable switching between these two modes of operation. Two versions of the control system are presently in use: one is based on a motion sensor, the other on detecting the load change when the vehicle is started. The dual battery can be manufactured, at similar production rates, in conventional plants. Field trials are in progress in both Australia and New Zealand. Compared with traditional technology, the Powerbeat system offers improved and more reliable performance, greater flexibility in the management of vehicle electrical requirements, and reduced battery size and weight.