Panasonic, Mazda partner on next-gen cylindrical li- ion battery cells for EVs

Japanese firms Panasonic Energy and Mazda Motor Corporation recently joined hands to work on the supply of next-generation cylindrical lithium- ion batteries for the latter's battery electric vehicles (BEVs) that are scheduled to be introduced from 2027 onwards.

An agreement in this regard was previously concluded with an aim of establishing a medium- to long-term partnership. Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry has approved their joint project for the expansion of battery production and technology development, as part of the government's plan for establishing a stable supply of batteries.

Their joint plan has sought permission for a production capacity of 6.5 GWh per year (as of 2030) at a total investment of about 83.3 billion yen. The plan also qualifies for a subsidy of about 28.3 billion yen from the government side. 

Mazda is planning to introduce a BEV model based on its first dedicated EV platform by 2027. "Mazda is committed to achieving carbon neutrality and is driving the transition to electrification through a range of solutions that cater to our customers' needs and lifestyles", Masahiro Moro, President and CEO of Mazda. 

"We will make the most of the highly efficient, high- performance, and safe batteries supplied by Panasonic Energy, and deliver distinctive Mazda BEVs to our customers that perfectly balance design, convenience, and driving range", he noted. 

Panasonic Energy, on the other hand, aims to increase its production capacity and plans to produce cylindrical cells at its Suminoe and Kaizuka factories in Osaka from 2027 onwards. It is unclear whether the cylindrical cells are of 4680 format that is about to enter mass production at the company's facilities in the coming months. 

Kazuo Tadanobu, President and CEO of Panasonic Energy, commented, "Through this collaboration, we are poised to drive the expansion of BEV manufacturing and boost the competitiveness of Japan's battery industry. Our ultimate goal is to foster a sustainable society, and we are dedicated to achieving this mission."

The company has also vowed to achieve a domestic production capacity of 10 GWh annually for the collaboration with Mazda by 2030.