The company held an opening ceremony at the Wakayama factory today. They'll do some final checks before they start making the batteries in large numbers.
These new 4680 batteries can hold five times more power than the older 2170 batteries. That's good news for electric cars. They'll be able to drive further, and car makers won't need to use as many batteries in each vehicle. This could make electric cars cheaper and easier for more people to buy.
Making these new batteries isn't easy. It needs really good technology and know-how. But Panasonic Energy has been working on this kind of battery for 30 years, so they know what they're doing.
The Wakayama factory used to make parts for lithium-ion batteries. Now it'll be the main place where Panasonic makes these new 4680 batteries. They'll also use it to try out new products and ways of making things. By March 2025, they plan to have about 400 people working there on new types of batteries.
Panasonic Energy wants to be kind to the environment too. They're aiming to make these batteries without creating any CO2. They'll use clean energy like solar power and wind power to do this.
The company has already made all nine of its factories in Japan carbon neutral as of September 2024. They want all 20 of their factories around the world to be carbon neutral by March 2029.
Kazuo Tadanobu, President and Executive Officer of Panasonic Energy, said:
"I am excited that we are ready to start the mass production of the cutting-edge 4680 cell. This milestone is the result of years of expertise in cylindrical lithium-ion battery manufacturing. I'm confident it will significantly revolutionize the battery and EV industry. As we add the 4680 cell to our lineup, we'll cater to a broader range of needs, further promoting the use of EVs and advancing our mission of fostering a sustainable society."
Source: Panasonic
