What is an "Optima" gel battery?

An Optima battery is a specialized battery favored for use in heavy duty conditions such as off-roading, racing, audio competition or constant service and emergency vehicle use. They are a "dry" or gel battery as opposed to the standard liquid/acid battery found in most vehicles and as such, can be mounted in a number of positions (sideways, etc.). Also, they do not require any maintenance and will not leak if punctured. The "red top" is for most applications whereas the "yellow top" is for deep-cycle applications (repeated cylcles of full discharge/charge). The body comprised of six cylindrical volumes forming the standard rectangular shape and grey in color.