September 9, 2024: Panasonic Energy and Mazda Motor Corporation have announced a collaboration to begin preparation for supply of next-generation cylindrical lithium-ion batteries for Mazda’s upcoming battery electric vehicles from 2027.

The partnership aims to expand Japan’s manufacturing base for batteries and follows a formerly concluded agreement which established a medium to long term partnership. The joint venture, supported by the Japanese government, will also focus on boosting Japan’s battery industry competitiveness and fostering sustainable societal growth.

Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry approved on the same day, their joint project for the expansion of battery production and technology development as part of its plan for establishing a stable supply of batteries.

Panasonic Energy aims to increase its production capacity and plans to produce cylindrical lithium-ion batteries at its Suminoe and Kaizuka factories in Osaka from 2027 onwards, the firm said. 

These will be module-packaged by Mazda. Panasonic Energy also plans to achieve a domestic production capacity of 10GWh annually for this collaboration by 2030.

Kazuo Tadanobu, president and CEO of Panasonic Energy, said: “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.”

Masahiro Moro, president and CEO of Mazda said: “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.”