Draper 53491 6V/12V Smart Charger and Battery Maintainer (10A), Black

Product Information

Not only does it cater for all lead/acid technologies – including 6 volts – it also handles lithium batteries. Its portability also makes it great for flat dwellers and other motorists without mains access near to where they park. After starting out as an FIA motorsport reporter, I joined the Fast Car team in 2022 and never looked back. However, a fully illuminated first indicator, again, means there’s enough oomph for a starting attempt. But if you simply want a gutsy, 10 Amp max current, charger that will safely boost all lead/acid batteries – including 6 volts – then you really can’t go wrong.

It takes all lead/acid technologies – including 6 volts – in its stride, and also works with lithium batteries. Still, it can cope with lithium batteries – unlike some rivals – plus it has a mode for start-stop units.A slightly leftfield model that marries many of the desirable features of compact smart chargers with foolproof older technology.

A bright light is a double bonus: it’s a lifesaver if you have to connect up in the dark, and it makes a great warning beacon if you become stuck at the side of the road. Better still, many chargers come with a hard-wired lead, which is attached to the battery clamps and has a charging plug – to be located somewhere convenient – on its other end. Without going into the science of it all, they generate the energy needed through lead-acid chemical reactions. As we saw last time, it was still some way off its 7A rating in the charge test and took 16 hours to hit 80 per cent. But whilst the glossy touch-sensitive front panel looks great, we suspect its cost robs the unit of more desirable features, such as a better charge process indicator – the single LED only shows if the unit is charging or finished.

of your vehicle batteries without losing memories or settings for ICE systems, digital clocks, and trip computers from the ECU (engine control unit). Usual CTEK favourites, Recond and AGM modes, are backed up by an advanced, temperature compensated, 5 Amps charge cycle. And smart charger essentials present include dedicated Winter, AGM, desulphation/repair, and condition only modes.