Key Insights
The South America Battery Management System (BMS) market is poised for remarkable expansion, projecting a market size of USD 13.64 billion in 2025 and a robust CAGR of 19.32% during the forecast period of 2025-2033. This significant growth is propelled by the escalating demand for electric vehicles (EVs) across the region, particularly in countries like Brazil and Argentina, which are actively promoting EV adoption through supportive policies and infrastructure development. The increasing integration of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, also fuels the need for advanced BMS solutions to optimize energy storage and grid stability. Furthermore, the burgeoning adoption of portable electronics and the growing electrification of transportation systems, including commercial fleets and public transport, are key drivers. The market is segmented by application, with "Stationary" and "Portable" applications expected to witness substantial growth, while "Transportation" remains a dominant segment due to the EV revolution.
South America Battery Management System Market Market Size (In Billion)
The market's trajectory is shaped by several prevailing trends, including the miniaturization of BMS components, advancements in wireless BMS technology for enhanced connectivity and reduced complexity, and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) for predictive maintenance and optimized battery performance. While the market presents lucrative opportunities, certain restraints, such as the initial high cost of advanced BMS technology and the availability of skilled labor for installation and maintenance, need to be addressed. However, the inherent benefits of BMS, such as improved battery safety, extended lifespan, and enhanced efficiency, continue to drive its adoption across various industries. Major players like BYD Co Ltd, Sensata Technologies Inc, and Continental Engineering Services are actively investing in research and development to introduce innovative solutions and capture a significant share of this dynamic South American market.
South America Battery Management System Market Company Market Share
This comprehensive report delves into the dynamic South America Battery Management System (BMS) market, offering in-depth analysis, strategic insights, and future projections. Leveraging high-volume keywords, this report is optimized for search engines and designed to engage industry professionals, investors, and stakeholders seeking to understand the evolving landscape of battery management solutions across the region. The study encompasses the historical period from 2019 to 2024, the base year of 2025, and a detailed forecast period from 2025 to 2033, with an estimated year of 2025.
South America Battery Management System Market Market Structure & Competitive Landscape
The South America Battery Management System (BMS) market exhibits a moderately concentrated structure, characterized by the presence of established global players and emerging regional innovators. Innovation drivers are primarily fueled by the escalating demand for electric vehicles (EVs), renewable energy storage, and the increasing adoption of portable electronic devices. Regulatory impacts, particularly those related to battery safety standards, emissions reduction targets, and incentives for EV adoption, significantly shape market entry and product development strategies. Product substitutes, though limited in core BMS functionality, can include simpler voltage regulators or charge controllers in niche low-power applications. End-user segmentation spans critical sectors including:
- Transportation: Dominant segment driven by EV adoption and the need for efficient battery operation.
- Stationary: Growing demand for grid-scale energy storage and backup power solutions.
- Portable: Continued reliance on BMS for consumer electronics and industrial handheld devices.
Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) trends are a key feature, with an estimated XX number of transactions observed between 2019 and 2024, indicating consolidation and strategic expansion. Concentration ratios are estimated to be around XX% for the top 5 players by 2025. Key companies are actively investing in R&D to enhance BMS performance, safety, and cost-effectiveness.
South America Battery Management System Market Market Trends & Opportunities
The South America Battery Management System (BMS) market is poised for substantial growth, driven by a confluence of technological advancements, evolving consumer preferences, and a burgeoning demand for sustainable energy solutions. The market is projected to experience a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of approximately XX% from 2025 to 2033, with the total market size projected to reach over USD XXX billion by the end of the forecast period. This remarkable expansion is underpinned by a significant shift towards electrification across various sectors, most notably in transportation. The increasing adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in key South American nations, spurred by government incentives and growing environmental awareness, directly translates into a higher demand for sophisticated BMS to ensure battery longevity, safety, and optimal performance. Furthermore, the growing imperative for grid stability and the integration of renewable energy sources like solar and wind power are driving the demand for stationary battery storage systems, each critically reliant on advanced BMS.
Technological shifts are playing a pivotal role, with a strong trend towards the development of smarter, more integrated BMS solutions. This includes advancements in algorithms for state-of-charge (SoC) and state-of-health (SoH) estimation, predictive maintenance capabilities, and enhanced safety features such as overcharge protection and thermal management. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) into BMS is becoming increasingly prevalent, enabling more precise control and optimized battery utilization. Consumer preferences are also evolving, with a greater emphasis on longer battery life, faster charging capabilities, and robust safety features in electronic devices and EVs. This heightened awareness among end-users is compelling manufacturers to prioritize the integration of high-quality BMS. Competitive dynamics are intensifying, with both global automotive component suppliers and specialized battery technology firms vying for market share. Strategic partnerships and collaborations are emerging as key strategies to leverage expertise and expand market reach. The opportunities for innovation are vast, ranging from the development of cost-effective BMS for entry-level EVs to advanced solutions for large-scale grid storage and specialized industrial applications. The increasing focus on battery recycling and second-life applications also presents new avenues for BMS integration and data management.
Dominant Markets & Segments in South America Battery Management System Market
The South America Battery Management System (BMS) market is characterized by distinct regional dominance and segment leadership, driven by specific economic, regulatory, and infrastructural factors. Brazil stands out as the most dominant geography, accounting for an estimated XX% of the market share in 2025. This leadership is attributed to its large automotive industry, significant government initiatives promoting EV adoption, and substantial investments in renewable energy infrastructure. The country’s growing manufacturing capabilities for EVs and battery components further solidify its position.
Within the application segments, Transportation is projected to be the largest and fastest-growing segment, driven by the widespread adoption of electric vehicles, including passenger cars, buses, and commercial vehicles. The increasing focus on reducing carbon emissions and the availability of charging infrastructure are key growth drivers in this segment. The Stationary application segment is also experiencing robust growth, fueled by the need for energy storage solutions to support intermittent renewable energy sources like solar and wind power, and to enhance grid reliability. This includes applications in residential energy storage, commercial buildings, and utility-scale power grids. The Portable segment, while mature, continues to contribute significantly to the overall market due to the pervasive use of BMS in consumer electronics such as smartphones, laptops, power tools, and medical devices.
Key growth drivers across these dominant markets and segments include:
- Government Policies and Incentives: Favorable policies, tax rebates, and subsidies for EVs and renewable energy projects significantly boost market penetration.
- Infrastructure Development: Expansion of charging networks for EVs and upgrades to grid infrastructure to accommodate renewable energy integration are critical enablers.
- Technological Advancements: Continuous innovation in battery technology and BMS design leading to improved performance, safety, and cost-effectiveness.
- Increasing Environmental Awareness: Growing public concern over climate change and a desire for sustainable solutions are driving demand for electric mobility and renewable energy.
- Economic Growth and Industrialization: Expanding economies and industrial sectors in key South American countries create a sustained demand for power solutions and battery-powered equipment.
Argentina, Colombia, and Chile are also emerging as significant markets, with increasing investments in EV infrastructure and renewable energy projects, contributing to the overall growth trajectory of the South American BMS market. The "Rest of South America" region, while fragmented, presents untapped potential for future expansion as these economies continue to develop and adopt sustainable technologies.
South America Battery Management System Market Product Analysis
The South America Battery Management System (BMS) market is witnessing continuous product innovation focused on enhancing battery safety, performance, and lifespan. Key advancements include the development of sophisticated algorithms for accurate state-of-charge (SoC) and state-of-health (SoH) estimation, crucial for optimizing charging cycles and predicting battery degradation. Advanced thermal management systems are being integrated to prevent overheating and ensure operational stability, particularly in demanding applications like electric vehicles. Furthermore, wireless BMS solutions are emerging, offering reduced wiring complexity, weight savings, and improved modularity. Competitive advantages in this market are derived from the ability to offer cost-effective, highly reliable, and scalable BMS solutions tailored to specific application needs, whether for high-performance electric vehicles, long-duration grid storage, or compact portable devices.
Key Drivers, Barriers & Challenges in South America Battery Management System Market
The South America Battery Management System (BMS) market is propelled by several key drivers. The escalating adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) across the region, supported by government incentives and growing environmental consciousness, is a primary growth catalyst. The increasing deployment of renewable energy sources like solar and wind power necessitates robust stationary battery storage, driving demand for advanced BMS. Technological advancements in battery chemistry and BMS design, leading to improved efficiency, safety, and reduced costs, are also significant growth enablers. Economic development and industrialization across South American countries further stimulate the need for reliable power solutions.
However, several challenges and restraints impact the market's growth. Supply chain disruptions, particularly for critical battery components and semiconductor chips, can lead to production delays and increased costs. Regulatory complexities and varying standards across different South American countries can pose hurdles for market entry and product compliance. High initial costs associated with advanced BMS and battery technology can be a barrier for widespread adoption, especially in price-sensitive segments. Limited charging infrastructure in certain areas can also hinder EV adoption, indirectly impacting BMS demand. Intense competitive pressures from established global players and the emergence of new entrants require continuous innovation and cost optimization strategies.
Growth Drivers in the South America Battery Management System Market Market
Several factors are accelerating the growth of the South America Battery Management System (BMS) market. The rapid expansion of the electric vehicle (EV) sector is a paramount driver, propelled by government policies, environmental concerns, and improving battery technology. Increased investment in renewable energy and energy storage solutions to support grid stability and reduce reliance on fossil fuels further fuels demand for stationary BMS. Technological innovation, including advancements in AI-driven BMS for enhanced performance and safety, and the development of more cost-effective solutions, is critical. Supportive government regulations and incentives for clean energy and electric mobility are instrumental in driving market adoption. The growing consumer awareness regarding the benefits of battery-powered devices and sustainable transportation is also a significant contributor.
Challenges Impacting South America Battery Management System Market Growth
The South America Battery Management System (BMS) market faces several hurdles. Supply chain volatility, including shortages of key raw materials and components like semiconductors, can lead to production delays and increased costs. Fragmented regulatory landscapes across different countries in South America can complicate compliance and market entry strategies. The high upfront cost of advanced BMS and associated battery technologies remains a significant barrier to adoption, particularly for smaller businesses and consumers. The slow development of charging infrastructure in certain regions can impede the widespread adoption of electric vehicles, consequently affecting BMS demand. Intense competition from both established global manufacturers and emerging local players necessitates continuous innovation and aggressive pricing strategies. Technical challenges related to ensuring long-term battery health and safety in diverse climatic conditions also require ongoing research and development.
Key Players Shaping the South America Battery Management System Market Market
- BYD Co Ltd
- Sensata Technologies Inc
- Continental Engineering Services
- Saft
- Renesas Electronics Corporation
- SK Innovation Co Ltd
- Bosch Corporation
- DENSO Corporation
- Intel Corporation
- Panasonic Corporation
Significant South America Battery Management System Market Industry Milestones
- November 2022: BorgWarner acquired the German battery manufacturer Akasol, which already had three plants, two in Germany and one in the United States.
- Q1 2023: BorgWarner is set to inaugurate its fourth plant in São Paulo, Brazil, marking its first expansion in the region since the acquisition. This facility will be dedicated to manufacturing battery management systems for electric cars.
Future Outlook for South America Battery Management System Market Market
The future outlook for the South America Battery Management System (BMS) market is exceptionally promising, driven by the accelerating pace of electrification and the growing emphasis on sustainable energy solutions. Strategic opportunities lie in catering to the burgeoning electric vehicle market, developing advanced BMS for grid-scale energy storage, and innovating for the expanding portable electronics sector. The region's rich renewable energy potential and supportive government initiatives present a fertile ground for growth. Continuous technological advancements in BMS, focusing on cost reduction, enhanced safety features, and greater intelligence, will be crucial for market players to capitalize on the substantial untapped potential and drive widespread adoption across diverse applications in the coming years.
South America Battery Management System Market Segmentation
-
1. Application
- 1.1. Stationary
- 1.2. Portable
- 1.3. Transportation
-
2. Geography
- 2.1. Brazil
- 2.2. Argentina
- 2.3. Colombia
- 2.4. Chile
- 2.5. Rest of South America
South America Battery Management System Market Segmentation By Geography
- 1. Brazil
- 2. Argentina
- 3. Colombia
- 4. Chile
- 5. Rest of South America
South America Battery Management System Market Regional Market Share
Geographic Coverage of South America Battery Management System Market
South America Battery Management System Market REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
| Aspects | Details |
|---|---|
| Study Period | 2020-2034 |
| Base Year | 2025 |
| Estimated Year | 2026 |
| Forecast Period | 2026-2034 |
| Historical Period | 2020-2025 |
| Growth Rate | CAGR of 19.32% from 2020-2034 |
| 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.; Increasing investment in the downstream sector4.; Rising offshore Oil exploration activities
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. 4.; Rising adoption of cleaner alternatives
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Transportation Segment is Expected to Dominate the Market
- 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. South America Battery Management System Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 5.1.1. Stationary
- 5.1.2. Portable
- 5.1.3. Transportation
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 5.2.1. Brazil
- 5.2.2. Argentina
- 5.2.3. Colombia
- 5.2.4. Chile
- 5.2.5. Rest of South America
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.3.1. Brazil
- 5.3.2. Argentina
- 5.3.3. Colombia
- 5.3.4. Chile
- 5.3.5. Rest of South America
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 6. Brazil South America Battery Management System Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 6.1.1. Stationary
- 6.1.2. Portable
- 6.1.3. Transportation
- 6.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 6.2.1. Brazil
- 6.2.2. Argentina
- 6.2.3. Colombia
- 6.2.4. Chile
- 6.2.5. Rest of South America
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 7. Argentina South America Battery Management System Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 7.1.1. Stationary
- 7.1.2. Portable
- 7.1.3. Transportation
- 7.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 7.2.1. Brazil
- 7.2.2. Argentina
- 7.2.3. Colombia
- 7.2.4. Chile
- 7.2.5. Rest of South America
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 8. Colombia South America Battery Management System Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 8.1.1. Stationary
- 8.1.2. Portable
- 8.1.3. Transportation
- 8.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 8.2.1. Brazil
- 8.2.2. Argentina
- 8.2.3. Colombia
- 8.2.4. Chile
- 8.2.5. Rest of South America
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 9. Chile South America Battery Management System Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 9.1.1. Stationary
- 9.1.2. Portable
- 9.1.3. Transportation
- 9.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 9.2.1. Brazil
- 9.2.2. Argentina
- 9.2.3. Colombia
- 9.2.4. Chile
- 9.2.5. Rest of South America
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 10. Rest of South America South America Battery Management System Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 10.1.1. Stationary
- 10.1.2. Portable
- 10.1.3. Transportation
- 10.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 10.2.1. Brazil
- 10.2.2. Argentina
- 10.2.3. Colombia
- 10.2.4. Chile
- 10.2.5. Rest of South America
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 11. Competitive Analysis
- 11.1. Market Share Analysis 2025
- 11.2. Company Profiles
- 11.2.1 BYD Co Ltd
- 11.2.1.1. Overview
- 11.2.1.2. Products
- 11.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.2 Sensata Technologies Inc
- 11.2.2.1. Overview
- 11.2.2.2. Products
- 11.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.3 Continental Engineering Services
- 11.2.3.1. Overview
- 11.2.3.2. Products
- 11.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.4 Saft
- 11.2.4.1. Overview
- 11.2.4.2. Products
- 11.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.5 Renesas Electronics Corporation
- 11.2.5.1. Overview
- 11.2.5.2. Products
- 11.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.6 SK Innovation Co Ltd
- 11.2.6.1. Overview
- 11.2.6.2. Products
- 11.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.7 Bosch Corporation
- 11.2.7.1. Overview
- 11.2.7.2. Products
- 11.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.8 DENSO Corporation
- 11.2.8.1. Overview
- 11.2.8.2. Products
- 11.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.9 Intel Corporation
- 11.2.9.1. Overview
- 11.2.9.2. Products
- 11.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.10 Panasonic Corporation
- 11.2.10.1. Overview
- 11.2.10.2. Products
- 11.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.1 BYD Co Ltd
List of Figures
- Figure 1: South America Battery Management System Market Revenue Breakdown (undefined, %) by Product 2025 & 2033
- Figure 2: South America Battery Management System Market Share (%) by Company 2025
List of Tables
- Table 1: South America Battery Management System Market Revenue undefined Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 2: South America Battery Management System Market Revenue undefined Forecast, by Geography 2020 & 2033
- Table 3: South America Battery Management System Market Revenue undefined Forecast, by Region 2020 & 2033
- Table 4: South America Battery Management System Market Revenue undefined Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 5: South America Battery Management System Market Revenue undefined Forecast, by Geography 2020 & 2033
- Table 6: South America Battery Management System Market Revenue undefined Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
- Table 7: South America Battery Management System Market Revenue undefined Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 8: South America Battery Management System Market Revenue undefined Forecast, by Geography 2020 & 2033
- Table 9: South America Battery Management System Market Revenue undefined Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
- Table 10: South America Battery Management System Market Revenue undefined Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 11: South America Battery Management System Market Revenue undefined Forecast, by Geography 2020 & 2033
- Table 12: South America Battery Management System Market Revenue undefined Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
- Table 13: South America Battery Management System Market Revenue undefined Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 14: South America Battery Management System Market Revenue undefined Forecast, by Geography 2020 & 2033
- Table 15: South America Battery Management System Market Revenue undefined Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
- Table 16: South America Battery Management System Market Revenue undefined Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 17: South America Battery Management System Market Revenue undefined Forecast, by Geography 2020 & 2033
- Table 18: South America Battery Management System Market Revenue undefined Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the South America Battery Management System Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately 19.32%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the South America Battery Management System Market?
Key companies in the market include BYD Co Ltd, Sensata Technologies Inc, Continental Engineering Services, Saft, Renesas Electronics Corporation, SK Innovation Co Ltd, Bosch Corporation, DENSO Corporation, Intel Corporation, Panasonic Corporation.
3. What are the main segments of the South America Battery Management System Market?
The market segments include Application, Geography.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD XXX N/A as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
4.; Increasing investment in the downstream sector4.; Rising offshore Oil exploration activities.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Transportation Segment is Expected to Dominate the Market.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
4.; Rising adoption of cleaner alternatives.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
November 2022: BorgWarner acquired the German battery manufacturer Akasol, which already had three plants, two in Germany and one in the United States. Another fourth plant will be built in São Paulo, Brazil, in the first quarter of 2023, the first since the acquisition. Battery management systems will be manufactured by BorgWarner in São Paulo for electric cars.
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 N/A.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "South America Battery Management System 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 South America Battery Management System 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 South America Battery Management System Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the South America Battery Management System 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