CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 marks a significant moment for battery technology in the construction industry. Discover Battery, a company known for advanced energy storage solutions, is exhibiting for the first time at the show, bringing a lineup of new products aimed at transforming how contractors power their equipment and jobsites. From high-capacity lithium mobile platforms to drop-in battery replacements and maintenance-free AGM traction batteries, the innovations on display address the growing demand for reliable, efficient, and durable power sources. For contractors who have been wondering about the longevity of their power tool batteries, the latest developments in lithium technology offer real answers beyond the old concerns about draining the battery memory myth the truth about cordless power tool battery care.
A New Era for Construction Power at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026
The construction industry is undergoing a fundamental shift in how it approaches power and energy storage. Traditional lead-acid batteries have served the sector well for decades, but the demands of modern jobsites, with their mix of electric equipment, telematics, and longer operating hours, require more sophisticated solutions. Discover Battery’s debut at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 signals that the company sees construction as a key growth area for advanced battery technology.
The company’s presence at the show comes at a time when contractors are actively seeking alternatives to conventional power sources. Several factors are driving this transition:
- Increasing electrification of construction equipment and tools
- Stricter emissions regulations on jobsites, particularly in urban areas
- Growing demand for quiet, fume-free power options for indoor and nighttime work
- Rising fuel costs pushing contractors toward electric alternatives
- Expanded use of remote monitoring and telematics requiring reliable onboard power
These trends create a strong case for upgrading battery systems across the board. The innovative technologies revolutionizing construction industry are not limited to software and robotics; power storage is equally critical to the future of efficient project delivery.
Discovering the Lithium Mobile Platform: 48V Power for the Modern Jobsite
The centerpiece of Discover Battery’s CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 showcase is the new Lithium Mobile platform, headlined by the DLM-16000-48V battery. This system is designed specifically for high-power mobile and industrial equipment, bridging the gap between small portable power packs and large stationary energy storage systems.
Key Specifications of the DLM-16000-48V
The DLM-16000-48V delivers 16 kWh of energy at a nominal 48 volts, making it suitable for a wide range of construction applications. Some of its primary use cases include:
- Lighting towers for nighttime and low-light construction operations
- Mobile power units for remote jobsites without grid access
- Jobsite trailers requiring sustained power for tools, HVAC, and equipment charging
- Temporary power stations for maintenance and repair operations
- Backup power for critical on-site monitoring and communication equipment
Each DLM-16000-48V unit comes with an integrated battery management system that monitors cell health, temperature, and charge levels in real time. This built-in intelligence helps prevent overcharging, deep discharge, and thermal runaway, all of which are critical safety concerns on active jobsites.
Built for Outdoor Conditions
Construction jobsites are demanding environments. Dust, water, vibration, and temperature extremes are part of daily operations. The DLM-16000-48V addresses these challenges with an IP65-rated enclosure, meaning it is fully protected against dust ingress and low-pressure water jets from any direction. This rating is essential for equipment that may sit outside overnight, operate in rainy conditions, or endure the dust generated by earthmoving and demolition work.
| Feature | DLM-16000-48V Specification | Benefit for Construction |
|---|---|---|
| Nominal Voltage | 48V | Compatible with common industrial equipment |
| Energy Capacity | 16 kWh | Sustains power for full shifts |
| Enclosure Rating | IP65 | Dustproof and water-resistant for outdoor use |
| BMS Integration | Built-in | Real-time monitoring prevents failures |
| Chemistry | Lithium | Lightweight, long cycle life, fast charging |
Why 48V Matters for Construction Equipment
The choice of 48 volts as the platform voltage is not arbitrary. Many mobile and industrial equipment systems operate at 48V, including certain telehandlers, aerial work platforms, and electric powertrains. By aligning with this standard voltage, the Lithium Mobile platform can serve as a direct power source for existing equipment or as a building block for larger energy storage configurations.
Compared to lower-voltage systems, 48V offers several key advantages:
- Higher efficiency over longer cable runs, reducing voltage drop
- Lower current draw for the same power output, allowing thinner cables
- Compatibility with a broad range of industrial motors and inverters
- Reduced heat generation compared to high-current low-voltage systems
The Lithium Professional Series: Drop-In Upgrades for Existing Equipment
Beyond the new mobile platform, Discover Battery has also updated its Lithium Professional (DLP) GC2-format battery line. This series is designed as a direct drop-in replacement for traditional GC2 batteries used in floor care machines, aerial work platforms, and other industrial equipment. The DLP series allows contractors to upgrade existing equipment to lithium power without modifying battery compartments or rewiring systems.
Modular and Scalable Design
The DLP system uses a modular architecture that supports configurations from 12V to 48V. This scalability means a single battery platform can serve multiple types of equipment across a fleet. Key benefits of the modular design include:
- Reduced inventory complexity, since one battery type fits multiple machines
- Simplified training for maintenance crews, who learn one system instead of several
- Flexible energy capacity through series and parallel configurations
- Lower total cost of ownership due to longer lithium battery lifespan
For contractors managing diverse fleets, the ability to standardize on a single battery platform simplifies procurement, storage, and maintenance. The same batteries that power aerial work platforms can also serve as backup power for flat roof solutions equipment and other specialty tools on site.
Cycle Life and Total Cost of Ownership
One of the strongest arguments for switching to lithium batteries in construction equipment is total cost of ownership. While the upfront cost of a lithium battery is higher than a comparable lead-acid unit, the total cost over the battery’s lifetime is often significantly lower. Lithium batteries typically deliver three to five times more charge-discharge cycles than lead-acid batteries before their capacity degrades below useful levels.
Additional cost advantages include:
- No need for watering or equalization charging, reducing labor costs
- Faster charging times mean less downtime between shifts
- Higher usable capacity, since lithium batteries can be deeply discharged without damage
- Lighter weight reduces fuel consumption in mobile applications
Comparing Battery Technologies: Lithium vs. AGM for Construction Applications
In addition to its lithium offerings, Discover Battery continues to display its Dry Cell AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) traction battery range. These batteries are designed for aerial work platforms, floor machines, and other industrial equipment that demands reliable deep-cycle performance. Understanding when to choose lithium versus AGM technology is important for fleet managers making procurement decisions.
AGM Technology: Proven and Maintenance-Free
AGM batteries have been a staple of industrial power for years, and for good reason. They offer maintenance-free operation, good vibration resistance, and reliable deep-cycle performance without the risk of acid spillage. Discover Battery’s Dry Cell AGM range builds on these qualities with enhanced traction performance specifically tuned for the stop-and-go demands of aerial work platforms and similar equipment.
AGM batteries remain a strong choice for applications where:
- Initial purchase cost is the primary decision factor
- Equipment operates in moderate temperatures without extreme heat or cold
- Battery charging can be scheduled during extended downtime
- The existing charging infrastructure is already configured for lead-acid chemistry
When Lithium Makes More Sense
Lithium batteries, by contrast, excel in applications where uptime, weight reduction, and fast turnaround matter most. The higher upfront cost is offset by longer service life and greater usable capacity. For operations running multiple shifts, where batteries must be recharged quickly between uses, lithium offers a clear advantage.
| Factor | AGM (Lead-Acid) | Lithium (LiFePO4) |
|---|---|---|
| Cycle Life | 500-1,000 cycles | 2,000-5,000 cycles |
| Usable Capacity | 50% (recommended) | 80-100% |
| Charge Time | 6-10 hours | 1-3 hours |
| Weight (per kWh) | 25-30 kg | 7-10 kg |
| Maintenance | Periodic watering | None |
| Upfront Cost | Lower | Higher |
| TCO Over 5 Years | Higher due to replacement | Lower due to longevity |
Making the Right Battery Choice for Your Fleet
Discover Battery’s product lineup at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 gives contractors more options than ever before. Whether the priority is immediate cost savings with proven AGM technology, a direct drop-in lithium upgrade for existing equipment, or a full-scale mobile power platform for demanding jobsite applications, the range of choices continues to expand.
When evaluating battery options for your fleet, consider these factors:
- Assess the duty cycle of each piece of equipment. Does it require deep discharges daily or light cycling?
- Evaluate charging infrastructure. Can your current chargers handle lithium chemistry, or will upgrades be needed?
- Calculate total cost of ownership over the expected equipment life, not just the initial purchase price.
- Consider weight savings. Lighter batteries can improve fuel efficiency and reduce wear on lifting mechanisms.
- Plan for future scalability. Modular systems allow you to expand capacity without replacing the entire battery bank.
For contractors managing water-related equipment on jobsites, understanding battery technology is just one part of the broader picture. Proper maintenance of all on-site systems, from battery banks to water treatment, plays a role in keeping projects on schedule. Resources like the complete guide to treating acidic well water causes highlight how comprehensive maintenance planning extends beyond power systems to include every aspect of site operations.
The construction industry is moving toward cleaner, more efficient power solutions, and the products on display at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 reflect this trend. Discover Battery’s combination of lithium and AGM technologies gives fleet managers the flexibility to choose the right solution for each application, balancing upfront investment against long-term operational savings. As electrification continues to reshape the industry, staying informed about battery options will help contractors make smart decisions that improve productivity and reduce downtime on every project.