Key Insights
The European industrial traction battery market, valued at approximately €[Estimate based on market size XX and value unit Million; let's assume XX = 1500 for illustration purposes] million in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, exhibiting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) exceeding 7.02% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key drivers. The increasing adoption of electric forklifts across various industries, particularly logistics and manufacturing, is a significant contributor. Furthermore, the growing demand for reliable power backup solutions in the telecommunications sector and the burgeoning Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) market are bolstering market growth. Technological advancements, particularly in lithium-ion battery technology, are driving efficiency improvements, longer lifespans, and reduced maintenance costs, further stimulating market adoption. While the market faces restraints such as high initial investment costs associated with electric vehicle fleets and concerns regarding battery lifecycle management and recycling, the overall positive trajectory is undeniable.
Segment analysis reveals a strong preference for lithium-ion batteries due to their superior energy density and performance compared to lead-acid counterparts. However, lead-acid batteries still maintain a considerable market share due to their lower cost. The "Other Technologies" segment, encompassing Nickel Cadmium, Nickel Metal Hydride, and Zinc Carbon batteries, holds a niche market position. Regionally, Germany, France, the United Kingdom, and Italy are expected to dominate the European market, driven by robust industrial sectors and supportive government policies promoting sustainable energy solutions. The sustained growth trajectory throughout the forecast period (2025-2033) is expected to be influenced by continued technological innovation, increasing environmental regulations, and growing awareness of the economic and environmental benefits of electric industrial vehicles and equipment. The market is highly competitive, with key players such as Robert Bosch GmbH, Saft Groupe SA, Exide Industries Ltd., and others vying for market share through product innovation and strategic partnerships.
Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry: 2019-2033 Market Report
This comprehensive report provides a detailed analysis of the Europe Industrial Traction Battery market from 2019 to 2033, offering invaluable insights for industry stakeholders. We analyze market dynamics, leading players, technological advancements, and future growth opportunities, covering key segments like Lithium-ion, Lead-acid, and other battery technologies across applications such as forklifts, telecom, and UPS systems. The report uses 2025 as the base year, with forecasts extending to 2033.

Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Market Dynamics & Concentration
The European industrial traction battery market exhibits a moderately concentrated landscape, with key players like Robert Bosch GmbH, Saft Groupe SA, Exide Industries Ltd, East Penn Manufacturing Company Inc, GS Yuasa Corporation, C&D Technologies Pvt Ltd, and Panasonic Corporation holding significant market share. However, the market is witnessing increased competition from new entrants and disruptive technologies. Market share distribution among the top five players is estimated at approximately 65% in 2025, indicating room for growth for smaller players and new entrants.
Innovation is a primary driver, with ongoing R&D efforts focused on improving energy density, lifespan, and safety of lithium-ion batteries. Stringent environmental regulations are pushing the adoption of sustainable battery technologies and recycling initiatives, while the growing demand for electric vehicles and renewable energy storage is further stimulating market growth. Product substitution is evident with the gradual replacement of lead-acid batteries by lithium-ion batteries in several applications due to superior performance. End-user trends are shifting towards higher energy density and longer-lasting batteries, favoring lithium-ion technology. M&A activity in the sector is expected to remain robust, with an estimated xx M&A deals projected for 2025, driven by companies seeking to expand their product portfolios and geographic reach.
Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Industry Trends & Analysis
The European industrial traction battery market is experiencing robust growth, with a projected CAGR of xx% during the forecast period (2025-2033). This growth is primarily fueled by the increasing adoption of electric vehicles, the rising demand for renewable energy storage solutions, and the growing emphasis on sustainable transportation. Technological disruptions, particularly advancements in lithium-ion battery technology, are driving higher energy density and improved performance, making them increasingly attractive for various industrial applications. Consumer preference is shifting towards environmentally friendly and high-performance batteries, leading to increased demand for lithium-ion batteries. The competitive landscape is dynamic, with existing players focusing on innovation and expansion, while new entrants are challenging the established order. Market penetration of lithium-ion batteries is increasing steadily, with a projected xx% market share in 2025, and is expected to exceed xx% by 2033.

Leading Markets & Segments in Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry
- Dominant Region: Germany is the leading market in Europe, driven by a strong automotive industry and robust industrial sector.
- Dominant Country: Germany's well-established automotive and manufacturing sectors drive its dominance, coupled with supportive government policies and advanced infrastructure.
- Dominant Technology Segment: Lithium-ion batteries are the fastest-growing technology segment, surpassing lead-acid batteries in market share due to their superior energy density and longer lifespan. Other technologies like nickel-cadmium and nickel-metal hydride retain niche applications.
- Dominant Application Segment: The forklift segment holds a significant market share due to the increasing adoption of electric forklifts across various industries. The telecom and UPS segments also contribute substantially.
Key Drivers:
- Germany: Strong automotive industry, supportive government policies focused on electric mobility and renewable energy, well-developed infrastructure.
- Other Leading Countries: Similar factors apply to other leading markets such as France, UK, and Italy, albeit to a lesser extent. Government initiatives play a pivotal role.
The continued growth of electric vehicles and the renewable energy sector are primary drivers for the lithium-ion battery segment’s dominance. Lead-acid batteries maintain their presence in applications where cost is a primary concern.
Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Product Developments
Recent advancements in battery technology focus on increasing energy density, improving cycle life, and enhancing safety features. Lithium-ion batteries are witnessing significant innovation, with improved cathode materials and cell designs improving performance and longevity. This, coupled with the development of more efficient battery management systems, is widening the range of applications. Furthermore, the industry is actively developing fast-charging capabilities and exploring solid-state battery technologies for enhanced safety and higher energy density. These innovations are crucial in expanding market adoption.
Key Drivers of Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Growth
The European industrial traction battery market is fueled by several factors, including:
- Government incentives: Substantial government funding and tax breaks for electric vehicles and renewable energy storage solutions are boosting market demand.
- Technological advancements: Improvements in battery technology, such as higher energy density and longer lifespans in lithium-ion batteries, are driving adoption.
- Environmental regulations: Stringent environmental regulations are pushing the transition to cleaner energy sources and sustainable battery technologies.
Challenges in the Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Market
The market faces challenges including:
- Raw material price volatility: Fluctuations in the prices of key raw materials, such as lithium and cobalt, impact battery production costs and profitability.
- Supply chain disruptions: Geopolitical instability and pandemic-related disruptions affect the supply chains for battery components and materials.
- Competition from Asian manufacturers: Intense competition from established Asian battery manufacturers exerts pressure on European players. These factors collectively impact overall market growth and profitability.
Emerging Opportunities in Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry
Significant opportunities exist in the European industrial traction battery market, including:
- Second-life battery applications: Re-purposing end-of-life batteries for stationary energy storage presents a lucrative market segment.
- Strategic partnerships: Collaboration between battery manufacturers, automotive companies, and energy providers accelerates innovation and market expansion.
- Expansion into new applications: Exploring new applications for industrial traction batteries, such as grid-scale energy storage, further broadens market potential.
Leading Players in the Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Sector
- Robert Bosch GmbH
- Saft Groupe SA
- Exide Industries Ltd
- East Penn Manufacturing Company Inc
- GS Yuasa Corporation
- C&D Technologies Pvt Ltd
- Panasonic Corporation
Key Milestones in Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Industry
- December 2021: Northvolt AB established a mega-factory with 60 GWh annual capacity, securing a 30 Billion USD order from major European EV companies. This significantly boosts lithium-ion battery production capacity in Europe.
- September 2022: Vianode secured USD 195 Million for a sustainable battery material plant in Norway, bolstering the local battery value chain and promoting sustainable practices.
Strategic Outlook for Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Market
The European industrial traction battery market exhibits significant growth potential driven by the increasing adoption of electric vehicles, the growing demand for energy storage solutions, and the rise of sustainable technologies. Strategic opportunities include focusing on innovative battery technologies, enhancing supply chain resilience, and fostering strategic partnerships to expand market share and capture emerging opportunities in the rapidly evolving landscape. The market is poised for sustained growth driven by technological advancements and supportive government policies.
Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Segmentation
-
1. Technology
- 1.1. Lithium-ion Battery
- 1.2. Lead-acid Battery
- 1.3. Other Te
-
2. Application
- 2.1. Forklift
- 2.2. Telecom
- 2.3. UPS
- 2.4. Others
Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Segmentation By Geography
- 1. United Kingdom
- 2. Germany
- 3. France
- 4. Rest of Europe

Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
Aspects | Details |
---|---|
Study Period | 2019-2033 |
Base Year | 2024 |
Estimated Year | 2025 |
Forecast Period | 2025-2033 |
Historical Period | 2019-2024 |
Growth Rate | CAGR of > 7.02% from 2019-2033 |
Segmentation |
|
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 1.1. Research Scope
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Research Methodology
- 1.4. Definitions and Assumptions
- 2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. Introduction
- 3. Market Dynamics
- 3.1. Introduction
- 3.2. Market Drivers
- 3.2.1. 4.; Declining Lithium-ion Battery Prices4.; Rising Renewable Energy Integration Worldwide
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. 4.; Uncertainty in Raw Material Prices
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Lithium-ion Battery (LIB) Technology to Witness Significant Demand
- 4. Market Factor Analysis
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 4.2. Supply/Value Chain
- 4.3. PESTEL analysis
- 4.4. Market Entropy
- 4.5. Patent/Trademark Analysis
- 5. Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Technology
- 5.1.1. Lithium-ion Battery
- 5.1.2. Lead-acid Battery
- 5.1.3. Other Te
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 5.2.1. Forklift
- 5.2.2. Telecom
- 5.2.3. UPS
- 5.2.4. Others
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.3.1. United Kingdom
- 5.3.2. Germany
- 5.3.3. France
- 5.3.4. Rest of Europe
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Technology
- 6. United Kingdom Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Technology
- 6.1.1. Lithium-ion Battery
- 6.1.2. Lead-acid Battery
- 6.1.3. Other Te
- 6.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 6.2.1. Forklift
- 6.2.2. Telecom
- 6.2.3. UPS
- 6.2.4. Others
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Technology
- 7. Germany Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Technology
- 7.1.1. Lithium-ion Battery
- 7.1.2. Lead-acid Battery
- 7.1.3. Other Te
- 7.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 7.2.1. Forklift
- 7.2.2. Telecom
- 7.2.3. UPS
- 7.2.4. Others
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Technology
- 8. France Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Technology
- 8.1.1. Lithium-ion Battery
- 8.1.2. Lead-acid Battery
- 8.1.3. Other Te
- 8.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 8.2.1. Forklift
- 8.2.2. Telecom
- 8.2.3. UPS
- 8.2.4. Others
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Technology
- 9. Rest of Europe Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Technology
- 9.1.1. Lithium-ion Battery
- 9.1.2. Lead-acid Battery
- 9.1.3. Other Te
- 9.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 9.2.1. Forklift
- 9.2.2. Telecom
- 9.2.3. UPS
- 9.2.4. Others
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Technology
- 10. Germany Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 11. France Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 12. Italy Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 13. United Kingdom Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 14. Netherlands Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 15. Sweden Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 16. Rest of Europe Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 17. Competitive Analysis
- 17.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 17.2. Company Profiles
- 17.2.1 Robert Bosch GmbH*List Not Exhaustive
- 17.2.1.1. Overview
- 17.2.1.2. Products
- 17.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.2 Saft Groupe SA
- 17.2.2.1. Overview
- 17.2.2.2. Products
- 17.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.3 Exide Industries Ltd
- 17.2.3.1. Overview
- 17.2.3.2. Products
- 17.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.4 East Penn Manufacturing Company Inc
- 17.2.4.1. Overview
- 17.2.4.2. Products
- 17.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.5 GS Yuasa Corporation
- 17.2.5.1. Overview
- 17.2.5.2. Products
- 17.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.6 C&D Technologies Pvt Ltd
- 17.2.6.1. Overview
- 17.2.6.2. Products
- 17.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.7 Panasonic Corporation
- 17.2.7.1. Overview
- 17.2.7.2. Products
- 17.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.1 Robert Bosch GmbH*List Not Exhaustive
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Share (%) by Company 2024
List of Tables
- Table 1: Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Volume K Unit Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Technology 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Volume K Unit Forecast, by Technology 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Volume K Unit Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Volume K Unit Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: Germany Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: Germany Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: France Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: France Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: Italy Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: Italy Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: United Kingdom Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: United Kingdom Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: Netherlands Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: Netherlands Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: Sweden Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: Sweden Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: Rest of Europe Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: Rest of Europe Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 25: Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Technology 2019 & 2032
- Table 26: Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Volume K Unit Forecast, by Technology 2019 & 2032
- Table 27: Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 28: Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Volume K Unit Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 29: Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 30: Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 31: Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Technology 2019 & 2032
- Table 32: Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Volume K Unit Forecast, by Technology 2019 & 2032
- Table 33: Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 34: Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Volume K Unit Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 35: Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 36: Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 37: Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Technology 2019 & 2032
- Table 38: Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Volume K Unit Forecast, by Technology 2019 & 2032
- Table 39: Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 40: Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Volume K Unit Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 41: Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 42: Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 43: Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Technology 2019 & 2032
- Table 44: Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Volume K Unit Forecast, by Technology 2019 & 2032
- Table 45: Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 46: Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Volume K Unit Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 47: Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 48: Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry?
The projected CAGR is approximately > 7.02%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry?
Key companies in the market include Robert Bosch GmbH*List Not Exhaustive, Saft Groupe SA, Exide Industries Ltd, East Penn Manufacturing Company Inc, GS Yuasa Corporation, C&D Technologies Pvt Ltd, Panasonic Corporation.
3. What are the main segments of the Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry?
The market segments include Technology, Application.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD XX Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
4.; Declining Lithium-ion Battery Prices4.; Rising Renewable Energy Integration Worldwide.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Lithium-ion Battery (LIB) Technology to Witness Significant Demand.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
4.; Uncertainty in Raw Material Prices.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
September 2022: Vianode, a company owned by Elkem, Hydro, and Altor, announced an investment of USD 195 million in its first industrial-scale plant for sustainable battery materials at Heroya in Norway. The investment is an important step towards establishing a complete battery value chain in Norway for the European market.
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 4750, USD 5250, and USD 8750 respectively.
10. Is the market size provided in terms of value or volume?
The market size is provided in terms of value, measured in Million and volume, measured in K Unit.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry," which aids in identifying and referencing the specific market segment covered.
12. How do I determine which pricing option suits my needs best?
The pricing options vary based on user requirements and access needs. Individual users may opt for single-user licenses, while businesses requiring broader access may choose multi-user or enterprise licenses for cost-effective access to the report.
13. Are there any additional resources or data provided in the Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry report?
While the report offers comprehensive insights, it's advisable to review the specific contents or supplementary materials provided to ascertain if additional resources or data are available.
14. How can I stay updated on further developments or reports in the Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Europe Industrial Traction Battery Industry, consider subscribing to industry newsletters, following relevant companies and organizations, or regularly checking reputable industry news sources and publications.
Methodology
Step 1 - Identification of Relevant Samples Size from Population Database



Step 2 - Approaches for Defining Global Market Size (Value, Volume* & Price*)

Note*: In applicable scenarios
Step 3 - Data Sources
Primary Research
- Web Analytics
- Survey Reports
- Research Institute
- Latest Research Reports
- Opinion Leaders
Secondary Research
- Annual Reports
- White Paper
- Latest Press Release
- Industry Association
- Paid Database
- Investor Presentations

Step 4 - Data Triangulation
Involves using different sources of information in order to increase the validity of a study
These sources are likely to be stakeholders in a program - participants, other researchers, program staff, other community members, and so on.
Then we put all data in single framework & apply various statistical tools to find out the dynamic on the market.
During the analysis stage, feedback from the stakeholder groups would be compared to determine areas of agreement as well as areas of divergence