This paper describes a project aimed at improving the performance and life of lead-acid batteries for electric vehicle applications and carried out by the European members of the Advanced Lead-Acid Battery Consortium. The project was divided into three principle tasks. The first concentrated on separator design and compression in order to improve cycle life. The second task sought to improve the specific energy of tubular plate designs, which traditionally have good life in traction applications. Additionally work was carried out to see the effects of rapid charging techniques on these improved designs. The third task sought to improve negative-plate performance by the characterization and evaluation of improved expanders.