Panasonic and Mazda Gear Up for Next-Gen EV Battery Supply

Earlier this month, Panasonic Energy and Mazda Motor Corporation made a significant announcement that could reshape the future of automotive battery production.

The two industry leaders revealed their plans to prepare for the supply of next-generation cylindrical automotive lithium-ion batteries, setting the stage for Mazda's introduction of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) starting in 2027.

This partnership not only marks a milestone in their collaboration but also aims to bolster Japan's battery manufacturing base and enhance the domestic supply chain for automotive batteries.

The strategic move builds on a prior agreement between Panasonic Energy and Mazda, demonstrating their commitment to a long-term partnership that focuses on expanding and strengthening their supply chain capabilities.

The Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry approved their joint project on the same day, recognising it as crucial for establishing a stable and robust battery supply chain within Japan.

The roadmap to a sustainable future

Mazda’s roadmap, aligned with its management policy up to 2030, is segmented into three phases to adapt to market dynamics and evolving customer needs.

By 2027, Mazda plans to introduce a new BEV model based on its dedicated EV platform, which will benefit from the advanced cylindrical lithium-ion batteries produced through this collaboration. This model is expected to enhance Mazda's competitive edge in the electric vehicle market while ensuring a steady supply of high-quality batteries.

Panasonic Energy is gearing up to significantly scale up its production capabilities. Starting in 2027, the company will manufacture cylindrical lithium-ion batteries at its Suminoe and Kaizuka factories in Osaka.

Kazuo Tadanobu, President and CEO of Panasonic Energy, comments: "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."

These batteries will then be module-packaged by Mazda. The partnership aims to achieve a domestic production capacity of 10 gigawatt-hours (GWh) annually by 2030, a critical goal that will reinforce Japan’s battery supply chain and meet the growing demand for electric vehicle batteries.

"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 lifestyle," adds 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."

The Japanese government has recognised storage batteries as a strategic asset in its push for carbon neutrality by 2050.

As part of this vision, there is a concerted effort to expand and fortify domestic battery supply chains and enhance industrial competitiveness.

By focusing on this strategic aspect, Mazda and Panasonic Energy are set to play a pivotal role in strengthening the domestic supply chain for cylindrical automotive lithium-ion batteries. Their collaboration promises to not only expand Japan’s manufacturing base but also improve the overall resilience and efficiency of the battery supply chain.

This partnership is not just about advancing technology; it also addresses broader societal challenges such as global warming and sustainable growth within the automotive and battery sectors.

By supporting local employment and fostering talent development, Mazda and Panasonic Energy are committed to creating a positive impact on both the environment and the economy.

Their focus on enhancing the supply chain will contribute to a more sustainable and competitive future for Japan's manufacturing industry.

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