The makers of the Odyssey battery use 99.9% pure virgin lead to increase cranking power and help provide amazing deep cycle reserve power.  Most other manufacturers use some form of lead alloy.  This battery line meets the rigerous This Odyssey battery will come fully charged and is ready to use out of the box. Thanks to rugged construction and AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) design, ODYSSEY batteries have an 8-12 year design life and a 3-10 year service life. Welded intercell connections enable it to withstand extreme vibration, and AGM design holds acid in place to prevent spills, even when installed on its side.