Panasonic Ramps Up Production of 4680 Battery Cells

Panasonic Energy has announced the commencement of mass production for a groundbreaking new format of lithium-ion battery cell, known as the 4680. This cylindrical cell, measuring 46 mm in diameter by 80 mm in height, boasts an impressive five times the capacity of the widely used 2170 cell. The introduction of the 4680 cell not only promises to significantly extend the driving range of electric vehicles (EVs) but also aims to reduce the overall number of cells required to achieve the same battery pack capacity.

One of the key adopters of this innovative format is Tesla, which plans to utilize the 4680 cells in its semi truck production at the battery gigafactory located in Nevada. Additionally, major players in the battery industry such as LG and Samsung SDI have also begun the production of 4680 format cells, signaling a shift towards this new standard in lithium-ion battery technology.

The Panasonic Wakayama factory, situated in western Japan, has been reestablished as the primary production facility for the 4680 cells and is poised to serve as the central hub for the manufacturing of these cutting-edge cells. Mass production is slated to commence following the completion of the final evaluation, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of lithium-ion battery technology.

With the larger capacity per cell of the 4680 format, the manufacturing process necessitates the utilization of more advanced technology and expertise. Panasonic Energy has spearheaded the development of a mass production method tailored for the high-performance 4680 cells, with the Wakayama factory positioned as the focal point for the production and demonstration of these cells. The factory is expected to play a pivotal role in enhancing product quality and competitiveness, with new processes trialed there set to be implemented across Panasonic's global manufacturing network.

Looking ahead, Panasonic is also exploring the integration of a silicon anode in the 4680 cells to achieve significantly higher energy density, further pushing the boundaries of battery performance. By March 2025, the company anticipates that approximately 400 staff will be engaged in the development and production of next-generation batteries at the Wakayama facility, with a strong emphasis on achieving virtually zero CO2 emissions during the production processes.

In a statement, Kazuo Tadanobu, President and Executive Officer at Panasonic Energy, expressed his confidence in the transformative impact of the 4680 cell on the battery and EV industry. He emphasized the company's commitment to catering to a broader range of needs with the introduction of this new cell format, thereby driving the adoption of EVs and advancing the vision of a sustainable society.

For more information, visit www.panasonic.com/global/energy.