Abstract: The subject invention provides a tray assembly for use in forming a sealed lead-acid battery system which houses multiple battery cells in horizontal positions for motive-power applications. In one aspect of the subject invention, the battery system includes a plurality of sealed lead-acid battery cells, and a housing having a plurality of walls which define an interior for accommodating the battery cells. At least one tray insert bears against a base of the housing which partitions the interior into at least two compartments for accommodating the battery cells. In a second aspect of the subject invention, a sealed lead-acid battery system for motive-power applications may be provided which utilizes at least one spacer partially disposed between two battery cells to cause separation thereof.