Automotive SLI lead-acid batteries are disclosed which are characterized by enhanced resistance to intercell connection corrosion, even when exposed to the current, relatively high under-the-hood service temperatures in use with recent model automobiles. The straps are formed from a lead-based alloy including from about 3.0 to 3.3% antimony, from about 0.04 to 0.07% tin, from about 0.04 to 0.07% arsenic and from about 0.014 to 0.020% selenium, the percentages being based upon the weight of the alloy.