2026 Robot Battery B2B Procurement Guide: OEM, ODM & Wholesale Solutions

As global automation accelerates, robots have become a core pillar of modern manufacturing, logistics, and service industries. From AGVs and AMRs in smart warehouses to service robots and industrial collaborative robots, stable and efficient battery systems are no longer optional. They are mission-critical.

In 2026, robot battery procurement is evolving toward customization, reliability, and long-term supply partnerships. OEM, ODM, and wholesale procurement models coexist, each serving different stages of product development and market expansion.

As a professional battery and electronic solution provider, shares this comprehensive B2B procurement guide to help robot manufacturers, system integrators, and global distributors make informed sourcing decisions.

1. Understanding Robot Battery Requirements

Robot batteries are not standard power packs. They are integrated energy systems that directly impact performance, safety, and operational efficiency.

1.1 Voltage Platforms

Common voltage ranges for robots include:

24V: Service robots, inspection robots, small AMRs

36V / 48V: Logistics robots, warehouse AGVs, delivery robots

60V / 72V and above: Heavy-load industrial robots and forklifts

Correct voltage matching is essential to avoid controller damage and energy loss.

1.2 Capacity & Energy Density

High energy density enables:

Longer operating time

Reduced battery size and weight

Better space utilization inside compact robot designs

Battery capacity selection must align with duty cycle, load, and charging frequency.

1.3 Discharge Performance & Cycle Life

Robots often operate under:

High peak currents

Frequent start-stop cycles

Long daily operating hours

Industrial-grade lithium battery packs should support high discharge rates and 2,000–5,000+ cycles, depending on chemistry.

1.4 Safety & Thermal Management

Key safety elements include:

Overcharge and over-discharge protection

Short-circuit and overcurrent protection

Temperature monitoring and thermal design

Certifications such as UN38.3, CE, UL, and IEC standards are increasingly required for global markets.

1.5 Smart BMS & Communication

Modern robot batteries integrate intelligent BMS, supporting:

CAN, RS485, UART communication

SOC and SOH monitoring

Fault diagnostics and remote maintenance

This is essential for fleet management and predictive maintenance.

2. OEM vs ODM Robot Battery Procurement

Choosing between OEM and ODM cooperation models has a direct impact on cost, development speed, and technical control.

2.1 OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer)

Under OEM cooperation, the robot company provides detailed battery specifications, and the supplier manufactures accordingly.

Advantages:

Faster mass production

Clear technical ownership

Strong brand control

Best for:

Mature robot platforms

Companies with in-house battery engineering teams

Standardized battery requirements

2.2 ODM (Original Design Manufacturer)

In ODM cooperation, the battery supplier participates in design, engineering, testing, and mass production.

Advantages:

Reduced R&D burden

Optimized battery performance

Faster time-to-market

Best for:

Startups and growing robot brands

Custom or innovative robot designs

Companies seeking differentiated battery solutions

2.3 OEM vs ODM Comparison

Item OEM ODM

Design Responsibility Customer Supplier-led

Development Speed Fast Medium

Technical Support Limited Strong

Customization Level Medium High

Cost Optimization Stable Flexible

At Yizhan Electronics, we support both OEM and ODM models, adapting to different project stages and market strategies.

3. Wholesale Robot Battery Procurement Strategy

Wholesale procurement is common for:

System integrators

Robot distributors

Aftermarket and replacement battery suppliers

3.1 Cost Optimization

Effective wholesale strategies include:

Volume-based tier pricing

Long-term supply agreements

Forecast-based production planning

Stable demand allows suppliers to optimize production and offer better pricing.

3.2 Quality Control Standards

Wholesale buyers should define:

Incoming inspection criteria (IQC)

Batch consistency requirements

Capacity and cycle-life testing methods

BMS function verification

Consistency is more important than individual performance metrics in large-scale deployments.

3.3 After-Sales & Warranty Terms

Key considerations:

Warranty period (typically 12–36 months)

Replacement or repair policy

Technical support response time

Reliable after-sales support is critical for long-term partnerships.

4. Managing Supply Chain Risks in 2026

With ongoing global supply chain volatility, risk management is essential.

4.1 Multi-Supplier Strategy

Avoid dependence on a single source. Maintain:

One primary supplier

One or two qualified backup suppliers

4.2 Transparency & Delivery Control

Choose suppliers with:

In-house battery pack production

Clear material sourcing

Predictable lead times

4.3 Certification & Third-Party Testing

Regular third-party testing helps ensure:

Long-term reliability

Compliance with international regulations

Consistent quality across batches

5. Key Certifications and Standards for Robot Batteries

For B2B buyers, certifications are not just formalities. They are critical proof of safety, reliability, and global market compliance. In 2026, robot battery procurement increasingly requires suppliers to meet international standards to support global deployment and reduce regulatory risk.

Below are the most important certifications and standards for robot batteries.

5.1 UN38.3 – Transportation Safety Standard

UN38.3 is a mandatory certification for lithium batteries transported by sea, air, or land.

What it covers:

Altitude simulation

Thermal testing

Vibration and shock

External short circuit

Impact and overcharge tests

Why it matters:

Without UN38.3, lithium batteries cannot be legally shipped internationally. Any serious robot battery supplier must provide a valid UN38.3 test summary.

5.2 IEC 62619 – Industrial Lithium Battery Safety

IEC 62619 is one of the most important safety standards for industrial lithium battery systems, including robot and AGV batteries.

Applies to:

Industrial equipment

AGVs and AMRs

Service and logistics robots

Key focus areas:

Electrical safety

Mechanical integrity

Thermal stability

Abuse and fault tolerance

This standard is increasingly required by European and global industrial customers.

6. Best Robot Battery Manufacturers & Suppliers in China (2026)

China remains the world’s leading hub for robot battery manufacturing. Below are some reputable suppliers with OEM/ODM capabilities:

1. Shenzhen First Power Energy Co., Ltd. (FirstPower)

Specialized in lithium battery pack manufacturing

Strong OEM & ODM customization capability

Voltage range from 24V to 72V

Widely used in AGVs, logistics robots, and service robots

2. CATL (Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Limited)

Global leader in lithium battery technology

Strong R&D and large-scale production capacity

Suitable for high-end and large-volume projects

3. BAK Power Battery

Experienced in cylindrical lithium cell and battery pack solutions

Supplies industrial and robotic power systems

4. EVE Energy

Offers industrial-grade lithium cells and system solutions

Suitable for ODM cooperation in robotic applications

5. Chilwee Group

Known for cost-effective lithium solutions

Strong in lithium replacement and medium-voltage systems

6. Hangsheng Electronics

Focused on intelligent battery systems and BMS development

Strong customization capabilities

Each supplier has different strengths. Procurement teams should evaluate based on application requirements, volume, certification needs, and technical support.

7. FAQ – Robot Battery B2B Procurement

Q1: What are the most important factors when sourcing robot batteries?

A: Voltage compatibility, cycle life, safety certifications, BMS intelligence, and supplier reliability.

Q2: Is ODM better than OEM for startup robot companies?

A: Yes. ODM reduces development risk and accelerates market entry. OEM is more suitable for mature products.

Q3: Are long-term supply contracts necessary for wholesale procurement?

A: Not mandatory, but highly recommended to stabilize pricing and ensure priority production.

Q4: How can buyers evaluate battery supplier quality?

A: Review certifications, test reports, sample performance, factory audits, and long-term delivery records.

Q5: What certifications are commonly required for robot batteries?

A: UN38.3, CE, UL, IEC 62619, and relevant local market standards.

In 2026, robot battery procurement is no longer just about price. Performance stability, customization capability, supply continuity, and technical support define successful partnerships.

At Yizhan Electronics, we help global customers build reliable robot power systems through OEM, ODM, and wholesale battery solutions ranging from 24V to 72V. By aligning battery strategy with product development and market goals, robot manufacturers can gain a lasting competitive advantage.

If you need custom robot battery solutions, technical consultation, or supplier evaluation support, our team is ready to assist.