A typical car battery can produce a peak current of 400 to 800 amps for short durations, specifically when starting the engine, as measured by its Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) rating. CCA is the standard industry metric that indicates the current a battery can deliver at 0°F (-18°C) for 30 seconds while maintaining a voltage above 7.2 volts. This high current is necessary to crank the engine, but it's not sustained; for continuous use, car batteries are designed for lower currents, usually under 50 amps.
The actual current output depends on factors like battery size, age, temperature, and vehicle type. For instance, smaller cars might have batteries with around 400-500 CCA, while larger trucks or SUVs could require 700 CCA or more. Here's a table with precise CCA data for common battery types, based on industry standards from sources like the Battery Council International (BCI):
| Vehicle Type | Typical CCA Range (Amps) | Example Battery Model | Peak Current (Amps) |
|---|
| Compact Car | 400 - 500 | Group 35 | 450 |
| Midsize Sedan | 500 - 600 | Group 24 | 550 |
| SUV | 600 - 700 | Group 65 | 650 |
| Light Truck | 700 - 800 | Group 78 | 750 |
| Performance | 800 - 1000 | Group 49 | 900 |
| Diesel Engine | 800 - 1200 | Group 31 | 1000 |
Beyond CCA, other ratings like Cranking Amps (CA)—measured at 32°F (0°C)—or Reserve Capacity indicate how long a battery can supply a steady current, such as 25 amps, before dropping below a usable voltage. It's important to choose a battery with a CCA rating that meets or exceeds your vehicle's manufacturer recommendations to ensure reliable starts, especially in cold climates. However, consistently drawing high currents can shorten battery life, so avoid using car batteries for accessories like winches without proper upgrades.
