Key Insights
The Asia-Pacific dual carbon battery market is experiencing robust growth, fueled by the increasing demand for energy storage solutions across various sectors. The region's burgeoning automotive industry, particularly in China, Japan, and South Korea, is a primary driver, with electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) significantly boosting the market. Furthermore, the expanding industrial sector, encompassing applications such as renewable energy integration, power backup systems, and material handling equipment, contributes substantially to market expansion. Portable electronics, another key segment, further fuels demand for compact and high-performance dual carbon batteries. While the market faces restraints such as high initial investment costs and the development of more efficient battery technologies, the overall positive outlook is supported by supportive government policies promoting renewable energy adoption and technological advancements aimed at improving battery performance and lifespan. We project a continued strong CAGR of over 3% from 2025 to 2033, driven by consistent innovation within the industry.
The market segmentation reveals automotive as the leading application segment, followed by industrial and portable applications. Leading players such as Panasonic, Toshiba, Hitachi, and NEC are strategically investing in R&D and expanding their manufacturing capabilities to cater to the growing demand. Within the Asia-Pacific region, China holds the largest market share, owing to its massive EV market and supportive government initiatives. Japan and South Korea also demonstrate strong market presence due to their advanced technological capabilities and robust electronics industries. India and other nations within the region are emerging as promising markets, driven by increasing infrastructure development and rising disposable incomes. The forecast period (2025-2033) will see continued market expansion, with the adoption of dual carbon batteries expected to further accelerate due to their superior energy density and performance characteristics compared to conventional battery types.

Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market: A Comprehensive Market Report (2019-2033)
This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of the Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market, offering invaluable insights for stakeholders seeking to navigate this rapidly evolving landscape. With a study period spanning 2019-2033, a base year of 2025, and a forecast period of 2025-2033, this report presents a robust overview of market dynamics, key players, and future opportunities. The market is projected to reach xx Million by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of xx% during the forecast period.
Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Market Concentration & Dynamics
The Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery market demonstrates a moderately concentrated landscape, with a few dominant players holding significant market share. However, the emergence of innovative startups and increased M&A activity suggests a shift towards a more dynamic competitive environment. The market is characterized by a complex interplay of factors including stringent regulatory frameworks concerning environmental sustainability, the presence of substitute products like lithium-ion batteries, and evolving end-user preferences driven by increasing demand for high-performance, cost-effective energy storage solutions.
- Market Share: Panasonic, Toshiba, and Hitachi collectively hold an estimated xx% market share in 2025, while other players like NEC and smaller entrants contribute to the remaining percentage.
- M&A Activity: The historical period (2019-2024) witnessed approximately xx M&A deals within the Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery market, indicating a growing interest in consolidation and expansion. This trend is expected to continue during the forecast period, driving further market concentration.
- Innovation Ecosystems: Significant innovation is occurring in materials science, battery design, and manufacturing processes, pushing the boundaries of energy density and cost-effectiveness. Research institutions like IIT Hyderabad are playing a vital role in advancing the technology.
- Regulatory Frameworks: Government policies promoting renewable energy and sustainable technologies are creating a favorable environment for dual carbon battery adoption. However, navigating complex regulations and standards remains a significant challenge.
- Substitute Products: Lithium-ion batteries currently dominate the energy storage market; however, dual carbon batteries offer potential advantages in terms of cost, environmental impact, and raw material availability, driving adoption within specific niche applications.
- End-User Trends: Growing demand for electric vehicles, portable electronics, and industrial energy storage systems is fueling market growth. The increasing focus on sustainability is further driving demand for environmentally friendly battery technologies.
Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Industry Insights & Trends
The Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery market is experiencing robust growth driven by a confluence of factors. The increasing demand for sustainable energy solutions, coupled with technological advancements leading to improved battery performance and reduced costs, is propelling market expansion. The market size was valued at xx Million in 2025 and is projected to reach xx Million by 2033, reflecting significant growth potential. Technological disruptions, such as the development of high-energy density dual carbon batteries with improved safety features, are further contributing to market dynamism. Changing consumer behaviors emphasizing environmentally friendly products are also bolstering market demand. This growth trajectory is, however, subject to several influencing factors, including raw material price fluctuations and technological advancements in competing energy storage technologies.

Key Markets & Segments Leading Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market
The Automotive segment is currently the dominant application for dual carbon batteries within the Asia-Pacific region, driven by the burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) market and stringent emission regulations. China, Japan, and South Korea are key markets, characterized by robust economic growth, substantial investments in EV infrastructure, and supportive government policies.
- Automotive: High growth is fueled by the increasing adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles, along with supportive government policies and infrastructure development in key markets.
- Industrial: Dual carbon batteries find applications in various industrial settings, such as power backup systems and grid-scale energy storage, leading to steady market growth.
- Portable: While smaller than the automotive segment, portable applications like laptops and power banks contribute to overall market demand.
- Other Applications: Emerging applications like robotics, smart grids, and medical devices present significant growth opportunities.
Dominance Analysis: The automotive sector's dominance stems from the massive scale of EV adoption, coupled with the inherent advantages of dual carbon batteries in terms of cost-effectiveness and environmental friendliness when compared to lithium-ion batteries in this application. Government incentives and infrastructure development further amplify this dominance. However, the industrial and portable segments are expected to witness substantial growth in the coming years, driven by specific market needs and technological advancements.
Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Product Developments
Recent advancements in dual carbon battery technology have focused on enhancing energy density, improving cycle life, and lowering production costs. The development of self-standing carbon fiber mats as electrodes, as demonstrated by IIT Hyderabad's research, represents a significant breakthrough, promising cost reductions of 20-25% and improved energy density (100-150 Wh/Kg). These technological advancements are expected to significantly enhance the competitiveness of dual carbon batteries in comparison to existing alternatives.
Challenges in the Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Market
Several challenges hinder the widespread adoption of dual carbon batteries. These include the relatively nascent stage of technology development compared to established lithium-ion batteries, fluctuating raw material prices impacting cost competitiveness, and supply chain complexities related to the procurement of specialized materials. Furthermore, regulatory hurdles and standardization issues can create barriers to market entry and broader adoption. These factors can collectively impede the growth trajectory of the market.
Forces Driving Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Growth
The Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery market is propelled by several key growth drivers. These include the growing demand for sustainable energy storage solutions driven by environmental concerns, government initiatives promoting renewable energy adoption, and technological advancements enhancing battery performance and reducing costs. The increasing electrification of vehicles and the expansion of grid-scale energy storage are also major catalysts.
Long-Term Growth Catalysts in the Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market
Long-term growth in the Asia-Pacific dual carbon battery market hinges on continuous technological innovation leading to improved energy density and cost reduction. Strategic partnerships between battery manufacturers, research institutions, and automotive companies are crucial for accelerating technological advancements and enhancing market penetration. Expansion into new applications and geographical markets will also significantly contribute to market growth over the long term.
Emerging Opportunities in Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market
Emerging opportunities exist in niche applications where dual carbon batteries offer distinct advantages, such as wearable electronics, medical devices, and specialized industrial equipment. The development of novel battery management systems and advancements in materials science can further unlock new growth avenues. The growing awareness of environmental sustainability will also support market expansion.
Leading Players in the Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Sector
Key Milestones in Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Industry
- April 2021: Researchers at IIT Hyderabad, India, developed a 5V Dual Carbon battery with self-standing carbon fibre mats as electrodes, achieving 100 Wh/Kg energy density (extensible to 150 Wh/Kg) and predicting a 20-25% cost reduction. This milestone demonstrates significant technological progress and paves the way for broader market adoption.
Strategic Outlook for Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Market
The Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery market holds immense potential for growth, driven by strong demand, technological advancements, and supportive government policies. Companies focusing on strategic partnerships, research and development, and expansion into new markets will be well-positioned to capitalize on the significant opportunities within this dynamic sector. The focus on cost reduction, improved performance, and sustainability will be critical for securing a leading position in the market.
Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Segmentation
-
1. Application
- 1.1. Automotive
- 1.2. Industrial
- 1.3. Portable
- 1.4. Other Applications
-
2. Geography
- 2.1. China
- 2.2. India
- 2.3. Japan
- 2.4. Rest of Asia-Pacific
Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Segmentation By Geography
- 1. China
- 2. India
- 3. Japan
- 4. Rest of Asia Pacific

Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market 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 > 3.00% 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.; Growing Power Demand4.; Growth of Renewables
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. 4.; Unstable Political Scenario of the Country
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Automotive Segment to Witness a 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. Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 5.1.1. Automotive
- 5.1.2. Industrial
- 5.1.3. Portable
- 5.1.4. Other Applications
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 5.2.1. China
- 5.2.2. India
- 5.2.3. Japan
- 5.2.4. Rest of Asia-Pacific
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.3.1. China
- 5.3.2. India
- 5.3.3. Japan
- 5.3.4. Rest of Asia Pacific
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 6. China Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 6.1.1. Automotive
- 6.1.2. Industrial
- 6.1.3. Portable
- 6.1.4. Other Applications
- 6.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 6.2.1. China
- 6.2.2. India
- 6.2.3. Japan
- 6.2.4. Rest of Asia-Pacific
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 7. India Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 7.1.1. Automotive
- 7.1.2. Industrial
- 7.1.3. Portable
- 7.1.4. Other Applications
- 7.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 7.2.1. China
- 7.2.2. India
- 7.2.3. Japan
- 7.2.4. Rest of Asia-Pacific
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 8. Japan Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 8.1.1. Automotive
- 8.1.2. Industrial
- 8.1.3. Portable
- 8.1.4. Other Applications
- 8.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 8.2.1. China
- 8.2.2. India
- 8.2.3. Japan
- 8.2.4. Rest of Asia-Pacific
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 9. Rest of Asia Pacific Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 9.1.1. Automotive
- 9.1.2. Industrial
- 9.1.3. Portable
- 9.1.4. Other Applications
- 9.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 9.2.1. China
- 9.2.2. India
- 9.2.3. Japan
- 9.2.4. Rest of Asia-Pacific
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 10. China Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 11. Japan Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 12. India Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 13. South Korea Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 14. Taiwan Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 15. Australia Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 16. Rest of Asia-Pacific Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 17. Competitive Analysis
- 17.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 17.2. Company Profiles
- 17.2.1 Panasonic
- 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 Toshiba
- 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 Hitachi
- 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 NEC
- 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)
- 17.2.1 Panasonic
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Share (%) by Company 2024
List of Tables
- Table 1: Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: China Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: China Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: Japan Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: Japan Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: India Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: India Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: South Korea Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: South Korea Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: Taiwan Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: Taiwan Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: Australia Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: Australia Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: Rest of Asia-Pacific Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: Rest of Asia-Pacific Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 25: Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 26: Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 27: Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 28: Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 29: Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 30: Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 31: Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 32: Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 33: Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 34: Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 35: Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 36: Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 37: Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 38: Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 39: Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 40: Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 41: Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 42: Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 43: Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 44: Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 45: Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 46: Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 47: Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 48: Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately > 3.00%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market?
Key companies in the market include Panasonic , Toshiba , Hitachi, NEC.
3. What are the main segments of the Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market?
The market segments include Application, Geography.
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.; Growing Power Demand4.; Growth of Renewables.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Automotive Segment to Witness a Significant Demand.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
4.; Unstable Political Scenario of the Country.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
In April 2021, researchers at IIT Hyderabad, India, developed a 5V Dual Carbon battery utilizing self-standing carbon fibre mats as both electrodes (cathode and anode). A novel dual-carbon battery consisting of zero transition metal is environmentally benign. The study predicts that it may cut down the overall battery cost by 20-25% and is expected to curb the unpredictability of market price. The fabricated 5.0V (nominal voltage 4.6 V) cell provides approximately 100 Wh/Kg energy density and can be extended up to 150 Wh/Kg with further modifications.
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 "Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market," 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 Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market 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 Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Asia-Pacific Dual Carbon Battery Market, 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