A battery replacement can feel like a go-through-the-motions kind of task that doesn’t require a lot of forethought or planning. While it’s certainly fine to take your car into the shop and ask for the same battery you’ve always had, there are several factors you should consider to ensure you’re getting the best performance and longevity out of your new battery — and your vehicle.

Battery-operated riding toys offer kids a taste of age-appropriate freedom and tons of fun. Now that we’re on the cusp of gift-giving season and you’ve got that shiny new ride-on toy wrapped and ready for Christmas morning, it’s time to think about the power that makes it go.

Battery and automotive technology have been intertwined for more than a century. In 1912, as automobiles began to gain mass popularity, Cadillac developed the first starter motor. This innovation eliminated the need for hand cranking and required a reliable power source — a lead-acid battery. By 1920, most new vehicles were equipped with electric starters powered by batteries.