Continental batteries are made by Continental Battery Systems, a Dallas based company founded in 1932 that has been owned by private equity firm H I G Capital since January 2021.
Continental Battery Systems is one of the leading battery distribution and recycling companies in North America, supplying automotive, commercial, marine, golf, and energy storage batteries to a wide range of industries.
The company was founded by Ralph McCann and grew steadily alongside the American automobile industry, with historical accounts noting that Continental supplied batteries directly to Henry Ford himself in its earliest years of operation.
So how did a company that once supplied Henry Ford end up owned by a private equity firm nearly a century later?
This guide covers who makes Continental batteries today, the company’s full ownership history, its current operations, and how Continental compares to other major battery brands in 2026.
So lets get started.
Table of Contents
H I G Capital Ownership Of Continental Batteries
Continental Battery Systems was acquired by H I G Capital, a global alternative investment firm, in a deal completed in January 2021.
Under H I G Capital ownership, Continental Battery Systems has continued expanding its distribution network and recycling operations across North America, including recent recognition as a top aftermarket supplier for Stellantis in 2025.
Continental Battery Founding History
Continental Battery Manufacturing Corp was founded by Ralph McCann in Dallas in 1932, growing up alongside the American automobile industry during a period of rapid national expansion in car ownership.
The company built its early reputation supplying batteries to major automakers and dealerships, a relationship with the automotive industry that continues to define its business today.
Continental Battery Systems Today
Continental Battery Systems now operates as the leading wholly owned provider of battery distribution and recycling services in North America, serving automotive, commercial, golf, marine, RV, and energy storage industries.
Industry press coverage has highlighted Continental’s recent partnerships, including a distribution agreement with The NOCO Company to expand its product offerings across its network.
Continental Battery Manufacturing And Sourcing
Continental Battery Systems primarily functions as a distributor rather than a direct manufacturer, sourcing batteries from major lead acid and lithium battery producers before distributing them through its own branded network.
This distribution model differs from vertically integrated manufacturers, allowing Continental to offer a wide range of battery brands and types under its own name across different customer segments.
Continental Versus Interstate Batteries
Continental Battery Systems competes with other major battery distributors like Interstate Batteries, both companies serving similar automotive and commercial customer bases across North America.
While Interstate Batteries built its brand primarily through independent dealer networks, Continental has grown more through direct distribution partnerships and industrial supply relationships.
Is Continental A Reliable Battery Brand
Continental batteries are generally regarded as reliable, particularly for commercial and automotive fleet applications where consistent supply and distribution matter as much as individual battery performance.
Common feedback from commercial customers highlights Continental’s recycling program and distribution reliability as key strengths compared to smaller regional battery suppliers.
Better Business Bureau records for Continental Battery Systems generally reflect positive standing, consistent with its decades long reputation in the automotive and commercial battery supply industry.
For businesses needing reliable bulk battery supply and recycling services, Continental remains one of the most established names in the North American battery distribution industry.
Frequently Asked Questions About Who Makes Continental Batteries
Who makes Continental batteries?
Continental batteries are made by Continental Battery Systems, a Dallas based company founded in 1932 and currently owned by private equity firm H I G Capital.
Who owns Continental Battery Systems now?
H I G Capital, a global alternative investment firm, has owned Continental Battery Systems since completing its acquisition in January 2021.
When was Continental Battery founded?
Continental Battery was founded by Ralph McCann in Dallas in 1932 and grew alongside the early American automobile industry.
Does Continental Battery manufacture its own batteries?
Continental Battery Systems primarily functions as a distributor, sourcing batteries from major manufacturers rather than producing them entirely in house.
For a comparison with another major battery distributor, see who makes Interstate Batteries.
I am Jack Neel, a mechanical engineer, researcher, and writer. I created this website to share my knowledge about different brands and products with you. I research the manufacturers behind the brands and provide you with the information you need to make smart buying decisions.