9월 24, 2024
1040
Panasonic Energy announces the official start of mass production of its revolutionary 4680 cylindrical automotive lithium-ion batteries. This marks a significant technological advancement in the electric vehicle (EV) sector, as the 4680 battery brings unmatched energy capacity, production efficiency, and sustainability to the market. The newly upgraded Wakayama factory in Western Japan will serve as the primary production hub for these state-of-the-art battery cells, heralding a new era in the evolution of EV battery technology.
Panasonic’s 4680 battery cell, named for its dimensions (46mm diameter, 80mm height), is designed to deliver groundbreaking improvements over the previous 2170 cells. Offering five times the energy capacity of the 2170, the 4680 allows electric vehicles to travel significantly longer distances on a single charge, while reducing the number of cells needed per vehicle. This breakthrough not only lowers manufacturing costs but also simplifies the assembly process, making EVs more affordable and accessible to the wider market.
Kazuo Tadanobu, President and Executive Officer of Panasonic Energy, remarked, "We are excited to begin mass production of the 4680 cell, which represents the culmination of years of innovation in battery technology. This is a major step forward in our mission to help make electric vehicles a more accessible and sustainable transportation solution."
The 4680 battery cell boasts a 3.7V nominal voltage and a capacity exceeding 20Ah per cell, offering five times the energy storage capacity of the 2170 cell. This large-format battery also improves thermal management, which is crucial for faster charging and longer battery life. The advanced materials used in the 4680, coupled with Panasonic's decades of expertise in cylindrical battery manufacturing, allow for greater charge-discharge efficiency and significantly reduced resistance, optimizing overall EV performance.
The 4680’s increased energy density enhances driving range, while its design supports better power output, enabling faster acceleration and higher sustained speeds for EVs. These innovations will empower automakers to create vehicles that are not only more efficient but also more powerful and responsive, offering consumers a better overall driving experience.
Panasonic’s partnership with Tesla has been a key driver in the development of the 4680 battery. As one of Tesla’s principal battery suppliers, Panasonic’s 4680 cells will be integral to the production of Tesla’s new-generation vehicles, including the highly anticipated Cybertruck and other future models. Tesla’s adoption of the 4680 format underscores the battery's transformative impact on the electric mobility landscape. By incorporating these cells into their battery packs, Tesla is expected to achieve longer ranges, lower costs, and faster charging times, advancing its goal of making electric vehicles more mainstream and accessible.
This collaboration exemplifies Panasonic’s role not only as a technology provider but also as a key partner in driving innovation in the EV space.
The revamped Wakayama factory will serve as the "mother factory" for the 4680 cells, showcasing Panasonic’s cutting-edge manufacturing capabilities. The factory’s transformation involved incorporating advanced machinery and production technologies specifically designed to handle the increased complexity of manufacturing the larger 4680 cells. With around 400 staff expected to be involved in battery production by March 2025, the Wakayama factory will play a central role in Panasonic’s global EV battery strategy.
In addition to its role as a manufacturing hub, the factory will function as a demonstration site for new technologies and production methods, which will be rolled out to other Panasonic facilities worldwide.
As part of Panasonic’s broader sustainability initiatives, the Wakayama factory will operate using renewable energy sources, including solar and onshore wind power. This aligns with Panasonic Energy’s long-term goal of achieving carbon neutrality across all 20 of its global manufacturing sites by March 2029. The eco-conscious approach at Wakayama follows Panasonic’s successful implementation of carbon-neutral practices at its Moriguchi and Kaizuka factories in Japan, marking a significant achievement in the company’s journey toward sustainable manufacturing.
By reducing its environmental footprint, Panasonic Energy is leading the industry in adopting environmentally responsible production processes, ensuring that the 4680 battery not only powers the future of transportation but does so with minimal impact on the planet.
With the global demand for electric vehicles continuing to rise, Panasonic’s 4680 battery is set to play a critical role in meeting the needs of automakers and consumers alike. In addition to Tesla, Panasonic is actively collaborating with other major car manufacturers to integrate the 4680 battery into a broader range of EV models, reinforcing the company’s commitment to driving the future of electric mobility.
The 4680 battery’s combination of higher energy density, reduced cost, and enhanced sustainability offers a winning formula for the EV industry. As Panasonic Energy leads the way in battery innovation, the 4680 cell is poised to set new industry standards, making electric vehicles more powerful, affordable, and accessible.
About Panasonic Energy
Panasonic Energy Co., Ltd., a division of the Panasonic Group, is a global leader in battery technology, providing innovative solutions across industries from electric mobility to consumer products. The company is dedicated to fostering a sustainable society by addressing critical environmental challenges through its cutting-edge battery solutions and commitment to responsible manufacturing practices.
